Biology-materials interface innovative technologies for the third millennium

The biology-materials interface, dating back to almost 3.5 billion years, offers even today novel challenges in the development of modem materials. The materials cycle in nature involving biological activity is comparable to that attempted by humans in recent history. Biology-materials cycle involves several processes of interest in modern technological developments such as biogenesis, biomimetics and bio-materials processing. A number of biogenetic materials have now been identified. Microorganisms, microbial processes as well as biomolecules responsible for materials synthesis in nature have been understood and efforts are now being made to evolve biomimetic strategies through artificial biogenesis. In this paper, biornineralization and biomimetic materials chemistry are examined with respect to stages in the construction of biominerals and biomimetic approaches to materials synthesis. Bioleaching and biobeneficiation processes are illustrated with respect to extraction of copper, uranium, gold and other base metals. Environmental biotechnology is also brought out with relevance to materials failure and environmental protection. The future of biotechnology in materials processes is highlighted and probable innovations through an interdisciplinary approach outlined.