Basic Research of Material Properties of Mycelium-Based Composites

Abstract

The subject of this research is growing mycelium-based composites and exploring their basic material properties. Since the building industry is responsible for a large amount of annual CO2 emissions, rethinking building materials is an important task for future practices. Using such composites is a carbon-neutral strategy that offers alternatives to conventional building materials. Yet, in order to become competitive, their basic research is still needed. In order to create mycelium-based composites, it was necessary to establish a sterile work environment and develop shaping procedures for objects on a scale of architectural building elements. The composite material exhibited qualities that make it suitable for compression-only structures, temporary assemblies, and acoustic and thermal insulation. The methodology includes evaluating several substrates, focused on beech sawdust, with two mycelium strains (Pleurotus ostreatus and Ganoderma lucidum), density calculations, compression tests, three-point flexural tests and capillary water absorption. The results of this study are presented through graphical and numerical values comparing material and mechanical properties. This study established a database for succeeding investigations and for defining the potentials and limitations of this material. Furthermore, future applications and relevant examinations have been addressed.

Sustainable Innovation: Fabrication and Characterization of Mycelium-Based Green Composites for Modern Interior Materials Using Agro-Industrial Wastes and Different Species of Fungi

“…The disparities in compression strength values of MBC materials typically result from a combination of factors, including compositional variations, mycelium growth, material density, porosity, post-processing techniques along with degree of pressing. These factors are all related to the different substrate kinds and fungal species that have been employed in the manufacturing process [ 30 , 44 , 72 ]. Furthermore, the application of pressure during production was identified as a contributing factor that effectively enhanced the compressive strength of MBCs [ 16 ].…”

Fungi-based Biomimetic Approach to Address Plastic Pollution: A Developing Nation's Perspective

“…Thus, it is crucial to integrate all the influencing factors in the initial phase of design conception [55]. Additionally, unconventional raw materials such as cardboard and newspaper were also used in mycelium composite fabrication, making it a more lucrative process [59]. In such cases the substrate preparation process may need additional treatment step to standardize the process.…”

Sustainable Mycelium-Bound Biocomposites: Design Strategies, Materials Properties, and Emerging Applications

“…Moreover, to obtain products with improved physical, chemical, and electrical properties, particulate nanoparticles could be mixed with liquid aggregates and fungal inoculum . For instance, nanoclays and carbon fibers could be incorporated into the mycelium products to obtain a stiff, higher flexural modulus and higher impact strength properties . Although mycelium-bound biocomposites are inherently insulative and dielectric materials because of the presence of mannoproteins, β-glucans, and chitin, conductive metal nanoparticles or salts could be introduced into the growth media to increase the electrical conductivity through the mycelium-bound biocomposite. , Another additive that has been incorporated into the formed mycelium parts is plasticizers such as water-based polymers.…”