2 min read

Korvaa: The Dawn of Microbe-Grown Consumer Electronics

Introduction

Korvaa is an innovative solution for sustainability in today's world where it has become a necessity. The experimental headset is a result of collaboration between Synbio Powerhouse, the Finnish Research Institute VTT, and a team of multidisciplinary experts. It is a groundbreaking achievement as it is the first headset made entirely from microbially grown materials. This project is not only pushing the boundaries of material science but also provides a glimpse into the future of product design.

The Science Behind Korvaa

What is Synbio?

Synbio, short for Synthetic Biology, is an innovative technology that facilitates the creation and modification of living organisms. It has the potential to transform existing biological systems for various practical applications. This technology plays a vital role in the shift from a fossil fuel-based economy to a sustainable bio-economy that is circular in nature. Synbio enables the production of a diverse range of products, including medicines, fuels, chemicals, and materials, using renewable raw materials, waste, and even CO₂.

Microbially Grown Materials

The Korvaa headset utilises a variety of bio-based materials:

Fungus: Used for the soft, cushion-like parts of the headset.
Bioplastics: Produced from yeast, these form the rigid components.
Protein-based Spider Silk: Used for the mesh fabric covering the speakers.

Design and Engineering

Why a Headset?

The headset was selected as the initial representation of these materials because of its intricate material needs. It comprises firm, spongy, flexible, stiff, and dense materials, along with mesh fabric, all in a small design. This makes it a perfect example to demonstrate the adaptability of bio-based materials.

Material Properties

Fungus: Offers a sustainable alternative to foam and leather, with similar comfort and aesthetic properties.
Bioplastics: Comparable in strength and durability to conventional plastics but with a significantly lower carbon footprint.
Protein-based Spider Silk: Provides a lightweight, strong, and acoustically transparent material for the speaker mesh.

Sustainability Metrics

Carbon Footprint: The production process is estimated to reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 60% compared to traditional methods.
Waste Management: Nearly all components are biodegradable, addressing the growing issue of electronic waste.
Resource Efficiency: Utilises waste fractions and renewable raw materials, contributing to a circular economy.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Scalability

While the concept is groundbreaking, scaling it up for mass production remains a challenge. The current biofabrication methods are still in the experimental stage and can be costly.

Durability

Bio-based materials often face questions about their long-term durability compared to their synthetic counterparts. Further research and development are needed to address this issue.

Conclusion

Korvaa is more than just a headset; it's a statement about what the future of consumer electronics could look like. It challenges designers, engineers, and consumers to think differently about the products we use and the impact they have on our planet.