Mapping The Properties and Performance of Nanocellulose- and Alginate-Based Cell Factory Matrices for Sustainable Photosynthetic Chemicals Production

Whole-cell immobilization in carrier matrices based on nanocellulosic hydrogels can be utilized in a range of application fields including biomedicine and biotechnology. One such emerging application is the so-called solid-state photosynthetic cell factory (SSFCF) aiming at sustainable biocatalytic chemicals production that contributes to circular bioeconomy. In the SSPCFs, immobilization has the potential to greatly improve the light-to-product ratio while reducing water and energy demands, but the efficiency of the system is integrally linked to the structure-property-performance interrelations of the nanocellulosic matrix. Thus, it is vital to employ interdisciplinary efforts based on materials, cell and bioprocess engineering to optimize the very distinct interplay between mechanical strength, mass transfer properties and biological performance of an efficient SSPCF. Here, we present a multidisciplinary experimental toolbox to investigate these properties from cross-linked matrix structures based on TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TCNF) and alginate. We use a combination of methods including rheology, multivariate data analyses, matrix structure investigations, and monitoring of gas exchange and biological operations of the immobilized photosynthetic cells. The obtained results give us new insight towards creating tailored cell factories – and immobilized systems in general – that can support the specific needs of the biological host and operational conditions.