Bioinspired materials conference 2019
Abstract
1. Technical: The Framework to the Naval Research Enterprise seeks to better synchronize efforts in order to align early research with future allocations to accelerate naval capabilities. In order to maintain a strategic advantage, we need to be first to field, which is enabled by exploring the realm of cutting edge technologies: synthetic biology products such as nacre, spider silk, and other natural materials have exceptional mechanical properties, which have not been exploited to their fullest extent. Often times natural materials, are tougher, stronger, longer lasting; are made sustainably and independent of rare earth resources; reducing cost while maintaining or enhancing quality. A key difference between natural and manmade materials that contributes to the differences in structures and local compositions and hence to the discrepancy in mechanical properties is their processing route: nature often produces materials using compartmentalized reagents. These discrete compartments offer control over the timing and location of the reagent release. By contrast, manmade products usually mix different reagents in bulk and tune the mechanical properties of the resulting materials with the composition and structure of these reagents. While this strategy offers good control over the overall composition of materials, it lacks control over the composition and structure on small length scales. This local control, would be required to design the next generation of materials that displays superior and adaptable mechanical properties and can repair itself when needed. To fill this gap, close collaborations between biologists that study the fabrication of natural materials, their structure and composition and chemists, physicists, material scientists, and engineers that develop biomimetic and bioinspired materials is required. Results from this meeting will help identify and prioritize how international efforts in material design and production can improve platform mobility and survivability to extend endurance and improve operations. 2. Relevance: Synthetic biology is integrating across disciplines and enhancing platforms, including new data processing technology, new materials, bio-inspired sensors etc. Synthetic biology as a platform is realizing novel disruptive technology the Navy will undoubtedly employ to remain at the cutting edge with its capabilities. In 2018, venture capitalist have invested over US$ 1 billion into start-up ventures promising disruptive technology. This meeting is attracting a number of world renowned researchers and company heads who are influencing technology development in synthetic biology; this list includes CEOs of several high-profile synthetic biology companies, which are listed in the grant proposal. With the impressive attendee list, this conference distinguishes itself in that it attracts both industry and academia to discuss current technologies in synthetic biology. The outcome is a unique view into understanding current competencies and capabilities and insight into forthcoming, disruptive technologies. Meanwhile the meeting remains intimate and smaller than other meetings thereby elevating the conversation and insight into innovative science and technology priorities among leading industry and academic institutions. ONRG~s contribution will assist with enriching the US/European perspective with participants from Asia, Israel, and the UK. 3. With what PO and ONR Code has this been coordinated? Jennifer Becker, RDECOM/ARO 4. Desired Outcome The desired outcome of supporting this meeting will be increased knowledge of the latest developments at the leading companies and in world-leading academic institutions. The support of the workshop will be critical to maintain the connection to the community and prevent future technological surprise. The meeting will enable increased interactions between academic, industrial and governmental organizations. As ONRG continues to develop and foster good relations
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 13, 2019
- Source ID
- N629091912075
Entities
People
- Esther Amstad
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne
- United States Navy