Patterned 3D-printed hydrogel for plant growth

A 3D-printed, biocompatible hydrogel matrix with internal air channels that can deliver water, nutrients, and gases directly to plant roots, enabling robust, soil-free cultivation with reduced land, water, and environmental impact.

Proposed Use

The hydrogel matrix is designed as a growth medium for vertical farming and other soilless cultivation systems. Seeds germinate on its surface and roots extend into an internal channel network to access water and nutrients from the gel and exchange oxygen and CO₂ from the air in the tubules.

Problem addressed

The major costs of traditional soilless cultivation are water circulation and illumination, with current systems such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and aeroponics relying on constant oxygenation of liquid media to sustain root health. These setups are often complex, energy-intensive, and difficult to scale. There is a growing need for simpler, more resource-efficient solutions that can support resilient food production with reduced environmental impact and water consumption. This technology responds to that need by improving root access to air and nutrients through its structured design.

Technology Overview

This invention introduces a 3D-printed, biocompatible hydrogel matrix incorporating a tubular network optimised for surface-to-volume ratio, ensuring the right balance of air and water to simulate natural soil conditions. The hydrogel matrix can be hydrated with a desired liquid medium containing the optimal amounts of nutrients, pH, and minerals. Unlike state-of-the-art hydroponics, the design eliminates the need for the liquid to be oxygenated, providing a simplified, robust, and easily handled platform that supports healthy plant growth in compact, soil-free environments.

We are currently exploring opportunities to collaborate with partners interested in advancing this technology through further research, development and real-world testing.

Link to preprint

Mohammed, A, Salvalaio, M, Li, Y, Myant, C and Sena, G (2025). Patterned 3D-printed hydrogel as a novel soilless substrate for plant cultivation, bioRxiv. DOI: 10.1101/2025.08.06.668759