Biomaterials based on bacteria, yeasts and algae for use in electronics and medicine

Nowadays, the world of electronics still relies on materials that are mostly nondisposable and non-recyclable. If the pace at which electronics is growing is taken into consideration, then it is evident how ecologically unsustainable this production system is. Therefore, it is necessary for new alternatives to emerge. Likewise, the field of bioelectronics needs materials that are as biocompatible as possible, avoiding situations of cytotoxicity. The good news is that already exist many alternatives to this problem. The bad news is mainly twofold: first, some of these materials are under study and refinement, thus not yet usable; moreover, their replacement would generate discontent in big companies and multinational corporations, which own the products on the market and are interested in maintaining their status quo. This thesis reviews some of the molecules and materials, endowed with specific characteristics and advantageous properties, that could soon provide a solution to the aforementioned issue. These will include polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose, DNA, and some types of pigments, including carotenoids.