11: Making Skis From Algae: The Biomanufacturing Process (feat. Dr. Scott Franklin)

How can materials science facilitate the process of creating skis from the oils of microalgae? Going from a new type of material to product is a challenge for any innovation - especially when trying to design biopolymers for rugged applications. Further, discovering innovative and sustainable ways to meet mankind’s massive demand for plastic products is a crucial challenge to tackle in this coming decades. 

 

Before we introduce today’s guest, check out our free professional development guide for materials scientists and engineers and join our Discord community to meet other passionate MSEs from around the world!

 

In today's episode we discuss these issues with Dr. Scott Franklin, the Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Checkerspot, a startup looking to tackle these exact challenges. Checkerspot is focused on creating plastics from the oils produced by microalgae.  

 

Dr. Scott Franklin can be contacted by writing him at: https://checkerspot.com/contact/

 

In this exciting conversation about innovations in biology and materials we discuss:

• How Checkerspot utilizes materials science for rapid innovation (1:31)
• Why backcountry skis were chosen as the first use-case (6:38)
• How Checkerspot tailors the output of microbes for outdoor products (15:44)
• Overcoming the challenge of scaling up biotechnology to meet competitive cost (24:40)
• Discussing the paradigm of biomanufacturing (30:48)
• The impact of this technology on climate change (38:58)
• And much more!

 

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Disclaimer: Any opinions expressed by either guests or hosts in this show are their own, and do not represent the opinions of the companies or organizations for which they are affiliated.