Jen Keane, the entrepreneur who once made headlines by growing a shoe using bacteria, has moved on to a more ambitious project. Her new startup, Modern Synthesis, is harnessing the power of microorganisms to create a range of sustainable materials that could replace synthetic alternatives. In an exclusive interview with TechCrunch, Keane shared her vision for a future where materials are not only eco-friendly but also possess the durability and versatility of synthetic materials.

Modern Synthesis's approach differs from Keane's earlier experiment. Instead of coaxing bacteria to deposit fibers into a specific shape, the startup harvests and processes the nanocellulose fibers to create various materials. This method is more akin to traditional fabric production, making it more scalable and practical for widespread adoption. The resulting materials can be manipulated to mimic the properties of synthetic materials like polyester and polyurethane, but with the added benefit of being biodegradable.

The implications of Modern Synthesis's technology are far-reaching. For instance, the materials can be spread into thin, wind-resistant films or textured to mimic high-quality leather. This versatility opens up opportunities for applications in various industries, from fashion to automotive. Keane cited the example of car dashboards, which often melt when exposed to direct sunlight. In contrast, Modern Synthesis's cellulosic materials do not melt, making them an attractive alternative.

One of the key breakthroughs that encouraged Keane to found Modern Synthesis was the ability to create materials using only nanocellulose, without the need for synthetic additives. This purity of composition ensures that the materials are fully biodegradable, leaving behind a natural residue similar to that found on a forest floor. Keane noted that cotton, a natural cellulosic material, is a great example of this decomposition process.

Modern Synthesis has already demonstrated the potential of its technology by partnering with Danish fashion brand Ganni to create an artificial leather handbag containing no petrochemicals. The startup is now working to quintuple production at its pilot plant, following a successful $5.5 million funding round led by Extantia Capital, with participation from Artesian and Collaborative Fund.

As Modern Synthesis continues to scale its operations, Keane is exploring more futuristic applications for its materials, such as smart textiles with embedded electronics. With its focus on sustainability and versatility, Modern Synthesis is poised to revolutionize the way we think about materials and their impact on the environment.

In a world where synthetic materials dominate, Modern Synthesis's innovative approach offers a beacon of hope for a more sustainable future. As the startup continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with nanocellulose, it may just inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and inventors to rethink the way we produce and consume materials.