Improving the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Mycelium-Based Green Composites Using Paper Waste

Abstract

The growing demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable materials has led to the invention of innovative solutions aiming to reduce negative impacts on the environment. Mycelium-based green composites (MBCs) have become an alternative to traditional materials due to their biodegradability and various potential uses. Although MBCs are accepted as modern materials, there are concerns related to some of their physical and mechanical properties that might have limitations when they are used. This study investigates the effects of using paper waste to improve MBC properties. In this study, we investigated the physical and mechanical properties of MBCs produced from lignocellulosic materials (corn husk and sawdust) and mushroom mycelia of the genus Lentinus sajor-caju TBRC 6266, with varying amounts of paper waste added. Adding paper waste increases the density of MBCs. Incorporating 20% paper waste into corn husks led to the enhancement of the compression, bending, and impact strength of MBCs by over 20%. Additionally, it was also found that the MBCs produced from corn husk and 10% paper waste could help in reducing the amount of water absorbed into the material. Adding paper waste to sawdust did not improve MBC properties. At the same time, some properties of MBCs, such as low tensile strength and high shrinkage, might need to be further improved in the future to unlock their full potential, for which there are many interesting approaches. Moreover, the research findings presented in this publication provide a wealth of insightful information on the possibility of using paper waste to improve MBC performance and expand their suitability for a range of applications in sustainable packaging materials and various home decorative items. This innovative approach not only promotes the efficient utilization of lignocellulosic biomass but also contributes to the development of environmentally friendly and biodegradable alternatives to traditional materials.

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

“…Moreover, ongoing research in material engineering, incorporating additives, and harnessing biotechnological advances hold promise for developing MBCs with enhanced properties. Continuous development through collaborative research, interdisciplinary cooperation, increased investment, and integration into circular economy models ensures the sustainability and commercial viability of MBC materials [127]. Although MBCs show comparable properties to traditional materials, challenges in standardization, performance, cost-effective production, and market adoption require further research.…”

Influence of Physical–Mechanical Strength and Water Absorption Capacity on Sawdust–Waste Paper–Recycled Plastic Hybrid Composite for Ceiling Tile Application

“…Density tests were carried out on the ceiling boards to determine the mean density for each board type. Besides the mechanical properties of the composites, the density of the fiber is a crucial parameter for determining the fiber's potential for being a lightweight material when used as a reinforcement in a composite [18,23] according to the British Code of Standards BS EN323 [24] as illustrated in Equation (1) [25].…”

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

“…Among these materials, MBCs stand out as technologically advanced and highly environmentally friendly, being produced through a 100% biotechnological process. This presents a promising avenue to revolutionize industries and contribute significantly to long-term environmental sustainability goals [2,3]. MBCs represent a type of green material offering a unique blend of biological suitability, versatility, and impressive physical and mechanical properties [3,4].…”

“…This presents a promising avenue to revolutionize industries and contribute significantly to long-term environmental sustainability goals [2,3]. MBCs represent a type of green material offering a unique blend of biological suitability, versatility, and impressive physical and mechanical properties [3,4]. This material is typically derived from mycelium, the vegetative part of fungi, and serves as a natural binder for organic substrates, forming robust and versatile composite materials that exhibit remarkable characteristics with advantages in several MBC fields [5].…”

“…Currently, the increasing demand and expanding applications of MBC materials drive researchers to explore innovative solutions beyond conventional options [3]. Understanding the intricacies of MBCs' production is paramount to harnessing their full potential and ensuring their seamless integration into sustainable practices [6].…”