Mycelium-Based Composite Materials: Study of Acceptance

Abstract

Mycelium-based composites (MBCs) are alternative biopolymers for designing sustainable furniture and other interior elements. These innovative biocomposites have many ecological advantages but present a new challenge in aesthetics and human product acceptance. Grown products, made using living mycelium and lignocellulosic substrates, are porous, have irregular surfaces and have irregular coloring. The natural origin of these types of materials and the fear of fungus can be a challenge. This research investigated the level of human acceptance of the new material. Respondents were students of architecture who can be considered as people involved in interior design and competent in the design field. Research has been performed on the authors’ prototype products made from MBCs. Three complementary consumer tests were performed. The obtained results measured the human reactions and demonstrated to which extents products made of MBCs were “likeable” and their nonobvious aesthetics were acceptable to the public. The results showed that MBC materials generally had a positive or not-negative assessment. The responses after the pairwise comparison of the MBC with wall cladding samples pointed out the advantage of ceramic reference material above the MBC based on an overall assessment. The respondents also believed that the chamotte clay cladding would be easier to fit into the aesthetics of a modern interior and would in better accordance with its style. Although the MBC was less visually appealing, the respondents nevertheless found it more interesting, original, and environmentally friendly. The experiments suggested that the respondents had double standards regarding MBCs. MBCs were generally accepted as ecological, but not in their own homes. All of these results support current and future applications of MBCs for manufacturing items where enhanced aesthetics are required.

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

“…To unlock the full potential of MBCs, challenges such as standardizing production processes, ensuring consistency, and achieving material performance and durability standards must be addressed. Balancing degradation and strength are key, along with overcoming cost-effective production challenges and scaling up manufacturing [ 16 , 35 , 67 , 125 , 126 ]. At the same time, building awareness among consumers and industries about the benefits of mycelium-based interior materials is crucial for market adoption.…”

“…At the same time, building awareness among consumers and industries about the benefits of mycelium-based interior materials is crucial for market adoption. Strategic communication, along with creative and unique product prototypes, enhances the appeal to customers ( Figure 10 ) [ 126 ]. Moreover, ongoing research in material engineering, incorporating additives, and harnessing biotechnological advances hold promise for developing MBCs with enhanced properties.…”

Mycelium-Based Composites: Surveying Their Acceptance by Professional Architects

“…However, objects made from ceramic reference material were ultimately preferred. While the ecological benefits of MBCs were acknowledged, respondents hesitated to use them in their homes [ 22 ].…”

“…It is important to note that the respondents were architecture students evaluating furniture and appliance-like objects. The cited study found that while MBCs can be perceived as fascinating and sustainable, their fungal origin and unusual appearance raise some concerns [ 22 ].…”

A Review Delving into the Factors Influencing Mycelium-Based Green Composites (MBCs) Production and Their Properties for Long-Term Sustainability Targets

“…Producers, by carefully considering and optimizing these factors, can continually refine their MBCs production processes, resulting in materials with enhanced properties suitable for a wide range of applications. Regular experimentation, combined with a commitment to sustainable practices, ensures the continuous improvement of MBCs [ 168 ].…”