Bactoware: Bio crafting technique using MICP methods from ureolytic bacteria

This research project “Bactoware” harnesses bacterial biomineralization process which enables artisans to create with microorganisms. In contrast to the cold, synthetic urban environments we now inhabit, this project reinstates biologically made earthenware to bring warmth back into our everyday living. The research initialled with testing microbiologically induced calcite precipitation (MICP) protocol on different types of calcium-based materials sourced from waste stream, by utilising mesh fabrics and acrylic frames to design a novel scaffold-moulding technique for cast bio-craft. By making future crafting techniques with bacterium and biomineralization, Bactoware proposes a biotechnological approach to solve the caron dioxide emissions and energy consumption caused by kiln firing process. The findings of this study have significant implications for the development of sustainable and regenerative strategies as new ways of producing bacterial-made ceramics with improved mechanical properties for the making process in artisanry.