In Simple Terms
Scientists are exploring how to use proteins, which are natural parts of our bodies, to create new, advanced materials. These materials could be stronger and cheaper than what we use now, without needing high heat or expensive ingredients. This innovation could transform how we make everyday products.
Research and Innovation
The Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA) is backing 11 new research projects with a £50 million investment. The goal is to develop innovative ways to manufacture advanced materials using proteins. This initiative is part of a program called “Global Manufacturers,” aiming to overcome traditional industrial manufacturing challenges by leveraging proteins’ ability to assemble materials at the molecular level.
Engineering Challenges and Target Materials
The supported research focuses on addressing three key engineering challenges related to producing high-value materials needed by industry. These challenges include the manufacturing of fibers, membranes, and magnets.
For fibers, researchers aim to use proteins to develop optical fibers with internal cavities for communication and sensor cables. These fibers have shapes and properties not achievable with traditional methods.
Regarding membranes, the goal is to create flawless protein sheets reinforced with metals, to be used as filters with precisely defined pores. These membranes aim to improve the efficiency of ion separation, such as lithium and magnesium.
As for magnets, efforts are underway to use proteins as nanoscale scaffolds to grow high-performance magnetic axes without relying on rare earth elements.
Practical Applications and Leading Projects
Among the supported projects is “The Core Fiber Factory,” led by a Scottish team using computer models and machine learning to design proteins used as reusable molds in optical fiber production. This project helps reduce the costs of producing specialized proteins.
At the University of Edinburgh, Louise Horsfall leads the “S-LATTICE” project, which aims to build two-dimensional protein-metal structures to develop membranes with chemical functions beyond what exists in nature.
At the University of Sheffield, Rebecca Boston leads the “PROTEUS” project, which works on using proteins from wool, silk, eggs, and milk to develop cobalt ferrite magnets using cold pressing techniques instead of high heat.
Conclusion
The aim of this research is to demonstrate proteins’ potential to revolutionize industrial manufacturing processes by combining molecular precision with large-scale production. This could open the door to new industrial applications for proteins, enhancing their ability to transform fields like electronics, energy, and infrastructure.