Generating Biomaterials By Acetic Fermentation

Between May and June, doctoral researcher Emma Sicher spent three weeks in Thailand as part of her PhD in Design Studies. Invited by Professor Aracha Krasae-in, she presented the work of the Cluster and her current research at the Faculty of Architecture of Kasetsart University in Bangkok. There, she also exchanged ideas with Professor Prakit Sukyai, an expert in Biotechnology and Biopolymers. Additionally, she presented at the Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts of Thammasat University, invited by Professor Wuthigrai Siriphon.

The heart of the experience consisted of visits to two sites associated with acetic fermentation techniques that can generate biomaterials. These techniques range from ancient practices to more recent methods, employed in various ways from fertilizers to health-promoting substances. The visits took place in small artisanal production realities in Nakhon Ratchasima province, including Stefano and Somporn Abbruzzese, and Micro Friends, an initiative run by Tanyaporn Tantasathien and Waratchanat Thongthiangtham at the Baan Ama farm stay who were found thanks to the invaluable help of Thai-German fermenter Eve Jazmati.

These field experiences open new opportunities in Biodesign, revealing ecologies of affection based on context-specific relationships between humans, plants, and microorganisms. Such practices whisper epistemological and ontological principles that could help expand the diversity of biomaterials. Additionally, these grown substances could acquire new roles. By promoting relational multispecies collaborations, they could act as active tools that encourage us to deepen our knowledge of the species around us.