Finnish researchers develop biohybrid films for ethylene production

Researchers in Finland have developed a method to produce renewable chemicals using photosynthetic microorganisms by entrapping engineered cyanobacteria within thin nanocellulose films. This biohybrid approach addresses common limitations of traditional suspension cultures, such as high water demand, the need for constant mixing, and self-shading, where cells block light from reaching those deeper in the liquid.

The nanocellulose scaffold, developed by the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, maintains hydration and facilitates light penetration while restricting cell division. By limiting excessive biomass accumulation, more captured carbon and energy can be directed toward the production of ethylene. In tests, this method enabled sustained ethylene production for over four months and yielded approximately twice as much ethylene as comparable suspension cultures.