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

Abstract

Mycelium-based bio-composites (MBCs) represent a sustainable and innovative material with high potential for contemporary applications, particularly in the field of modern interior design. This research investigates the fabrication of MBCs for modern interior materials using agro-industrial wastes (bamboo sawdust and corn pericarp) and different fungal species. The study focuses on determining physical properties, including moisture content, shrinkage, density, water absorption, volumetric swelling, thermal degradation, and mechanical properties (bending, compression, impact, and tensile strength). The results indicate variations in moisture content and shrinkage based on fungal species and substrate types, with bamboo sawdust exhibiting lower shrinkage. The obtained density values range from 212.31 to 282.09 kg/m3, comparable to traditional materials, suggesting MBCs potential in diverse fields, especially as modern interior elements. Water absorption and volumetric swelling demonstrate the influence of substrate and fungal species, although they do not significantly impact the characteristics of interior decoration materials. Thermal degradation analysis aligns with established patterns, showcasing the suitability of MBCs for various applications. Scanning electron microscope observations reveal the morphological features of MBCs, emphasizing the role of fungal mycelia in binding substrate particles. Mechanical properties exhibit variations in bending, compression, impact, and tensile strength, with MBCs demonstrating compatibility with traditional materials used in interior elements. Those produced from L. sajor-caju and G. fornicatum show especially promising characteristics in this context. Particularly noteworthy are their superior compression and impact strength, surpassing values observed in certain synthetic foams multiple times. Moreover, this study reveals the biodegradability of MBCs, reaching standards for environmentally friendly materials. A comprehensive comparison with traditional materials further supports the potential of MBCs in sustainable material. Challenges in standardization, production scalability, and market adoption are identified, emphasizing the need for ongoing research, material engineering advancements, and biotechnological innovations. These efforts aim to enhance MBC properties, promoting sustainability in modern interior applications, while also facilitating their expansion into mass production within the innovative construction materials market.

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

“…These findings are consistent with Appels et al [33], who reported that MBCs produced from T. multicolor (trimitic hyphal system) exhibited higher flexural and tensile strength (0.22 and 0.04 MPa, respectively) than those from P. ostreatus, which has a monomitic hyphal system (0.06 and 0.01 MPa, respectively), when grown on rapeseed straw. Furthermore, these findings are supported by Aiduang et al [22,36], who highlighted that MBCs produced from trimitic hyphal species like G. fornicatum, G. williamsianum, and L. sajor-caju displayed superior mechanical properties compared to S. commune (monomitic hyphal system), particularly in terms of compressive strength, flexural strength, impact strength, and tensile strength across various substrates used in production. Additionally, hydrophobic hyphae with thick walls and high density can improve the physical properties by reducing water absorption when covering material surfaces [36,60].…”

“…MBCs are an eco-friendly, innovative class of biodegradable materials with significant potential across numerous applications [21,22]. This material is produced by cultivating the vegetative portion of fungal mycelia on various lignocellulosic substrates, often sourced from agricultural and forestry wastes.…”

“…In general, selecting materials compatible with mycelium growth, such as acrylics, polypropylene, silicone, or other materials that withstand the sterilization process and provide a smooth surface for mycelium colonization, is essential [22,154]. Opting for materials that are easily disinfected, resistant to disinfectant solutions (70-75% ethanol, sodium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, etc.…”

“…), and capable of withstanding high temperatures can streamline production, save time, and reduce costs [155]. This section introduces synthetic materials like high-density polyethylene, polypropylene, and acrylic plastic [22,33].…”

“…However, it is imperative to ensure that the residues of the sterilizing agent do not negatively impact mycelium growth. Consequently, after chemical sterilization, thorough washing with autoclaved water is recommended [3,22,141].…”