Technology Convergence Report 2025

Bio-engineered materials This technological combination enables the embedding of biological logic and functionality into engineered frameworks, moving beyond biomimicry towards truly hybrid materials. Natural materials demonstrate remarkable properties, but bioengineered materials amplify these through recombinant proteins and engineered structures. These materials can be game-changers in the sustainability sector to create bio-fuel, bio-based chemicals, and support the recycling process, i.e. all aspects of the circular economy. What makes this pattern transformative is its ability to resolve material trade-offs, combining high mechanical performance, environmental responsiveness and biocompatibility – features rarely coexisting in traditional systems. Applications include 3D-printed bio-cement from engineered cyanobacteria that adapt calcite deposition to environmental cues, and nanoscale-structured synthetic coatings with antifouling properties. These advances mark a fundamental shift in how materials are conceptualized, designed and manufactured – reshaping sectors like healthcare, construction and environmental remediation. 2 3 23 2 3 21 Bio-engineered materials Cellular manufacturingBio-inspired materialsBiocompatible implantsBiofabricated materials Tissue engineering Scaffolds/ biomaterials and organoids and 3D bioprinting Material design optimizationBiological process modelling Technology domain Advanced materials Engineering biology Artificial intelligence Maturity level 3 Product4 Commodity 1 Genesis2 Custom-builtN Industry Company Outcomes Agriculture, industrial biotech Ginkgo BioworksGinkgo Bioworks engineers microbes for biofabricated materials, bioplastics and biofuels, optimizing bioproduction processes and reducing environmental impact Construction industryBiomasonBio-cement enables sustainable building materials, enhancing environmental impact reduction, material durability and operational efficiency. Technology Convergence Report 41