Nanoscale Synergy: Transforming First Formed Film of Bacterial Cellulose into High-Performance Functional Fibers

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Bacterial cellulose (BC) forms a 3D nanofibrous network during biosynthesis, evolving with culture time.
• The structure of BC, particularly its network morphology, can be manipulated for tailored applications.
• Previous methods often resulted in layered structures, limiting material properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop BC-derived macrofibers with superior mechanical and functional properties.
• To investigate the conversion of BC nanofibers into macrofibers through controlled deformation.
• To explore in situ functionalization of BC hydrogels for advanced material applications.

Main Methods:

• Optimized BC biosynthesis to obtain a homogeneous First Formed Film (FFF) at the liquid-air interface on day two.
• Converted FFF ultralong nanofibers into macrofibers via controlled plastic deformation and twisting.
• Functionalized FFF hydrogels in situ to create magnetic, antibacterial, and conductive fibers.

Main Results:

• Achieved BC-derived macrofibers with exceptional tensile strength (2.5 GPa) and specific strength (856.16 MPa cm³ g⁻¹).
• Maintained 95% of BC nanofiber stiffness, demonstrating effective nanoscale-to-macroscale property transfer.
• Successfully fabricated functionalized magnetic, antibacterial, and conductive fibers without chemical modification.

Conclusions:

• The study demonstrates a synergistic approach combining BC biosynthesis and morphology control to create high-performance materials.
• The developed BC macrofibers exhibit outstanding mechanical strength and tunable functionalities.
• These BC macrofibers are promising candidates for advanced applications like surgical sutures and soft robotics.