Biotilised

Biotilised is a term used in materials science and bioengineering to describe the integration of living biological components with non-biological materials to create biohybrid systems. The aim is to endow materials with dynamic, life-like functions such as self-repair, environmental sensing, or adaptive response to stimuli. The concept encompasses a range of approaches, from embedding enzymes or microbial cells within matrices to interfacing living tissues with synthetic substrates.

Common methods include encapsulating microorganisms in protective hydrogels and dispersing them within polymers or concrete; immobilizing enzymes on surfaces to catalyze targeted reactions; and wiring living cells to electronic or optical readouts in soft robotics and sensor devices. Biotilised systems require careful design for biocompatibility, nutrient supply, waste management, and containment to prevent uncontrolled release.

Potential applications span construction, environmental remediation, wearable biosensors, regenerative medicine, and adaptive soft robotics. For example, bacteria or fungi embedded in concrete have demonstrated self-healing crack closure, while enzyme-coated surfaces enable on-demand catalysis. In sensing, biotilised elements can provide real-time biological readouts alongside traditional electronics.

Challenges include maintaining cell viability outside natural habitats, controlling biological activity, biosafety and regulatory concerns, and ensuring long-term stability under operational conditions. Material compatibility, manufacturing scalability, and ethical considerations also shape the pace of development.

Biotilised emerged as a research theme in the 2010s with growing interest in biohybrid materials. While several laboratory demonstrations exist, wide-scale commercial adoption remains limited, and many projects emphasize safety, ethics, and standardized testing.