Fungi2Fabric – Fundamental research on the production of functional materials via ‘solid-state-fermentation’ using fungal mycelium and agricultural residues
Topic
The current global waste problem is primarily caused by plastics produced based on fossil resources and are not biodegradable. Thus, on the one hand, greenhouse gases are emitted during production, which in turn drive climate change, and on the other hand, microplastics enter our ecosystems and, thus, in the long term, also our food cycle. Therefore, it is particularly essential to research new materials to replace products with a concise, helpful life. Packaging materials, in particular, should be mentioned here. Mycelium materials have a high potential to be used as biobased and recyclable materials in the future. All lignocellulosic residues are available as starting substrates so that, among other things, inexpensive straw, husks and shives from food and fibre production that accumulates in large quantities can be upgraded. The fungus serves as a natural binder between the substrate particles, creating dimensionally stable materials with controllable properties.
Goals
The current work aims to determine the relationship between the substrate used and its particle size on the material properties. First, the compressive and flexural strength will be investigated to assess the suitability of the composites as packaging materials. In addition, optical changes of the composite are examined in relation to different post-processing methods. Finally, the materials can be evaluated based on their properties. Subsequently, the materials will be tested for suitability for a circular economy. For this purpose, it is planned to return them to composite production or to test their degradability on a laboratory scale using anaerobic digestion. This will make it possible to determine how suitable the composites are for producing energy in the form of biomethane once they have been used. Overall, the goal is to save CO2 emissions compared to conventional materials and close local material cycles.
