Living Kombucha Electronics with Proteinoids

Abstract

Abstract The work introduces a composite material that combines Kombucha cellulose mats with synthetic thermal proteinoids to create electroactive biofilms, capable for sensing and computation. The synthesis of proteinoids involves heating amino acid mixtures, which leads to the formation of proto–cell structures capable of biological electrical signalling. We demonstrate that these hybrid biofilms exhibit adjustable memristive and memfractance properties, which can be utilised for unconventional computing tasks. The potential applications of living biofilms extend beyond neural interfaces, encompassing bioinspired robotics, smart wearables, adaptive biorobotic systems, and other technologies that rely on dynamic bioelectronic materials. The composite films offer a wide range of options for synthesis and performance customisation. Current research is dedicated to customising the composition, nanostructure, and integration of proteinoids in hybrid circuits to achieve specific electronic functionalities. Overall, these cross–kingdom biofilms are an intriguing category of materials that combine the unique properties of biological organisms and smart polymers. The Kombucha–proteinoid composites are a significant step forward in the development of future technologies that bridge the gap between living and artificial life systems. These composites have the remarkable ability to support cellular systems and demonstrate adaptive bioelectronic behaviour.