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Aiduang W, Jatuwong K, Luangharn T, Jinanukul P, Thamjaree W, Teeraphantuvat T, Waroonkun T, Lumyong S. A Review Delving into the Factors Influencing Mycelium-Based Green Composites (MBCs) Production and Their Properties for Long-Term Sustainability Targets. Biomimetics (Basel) 2024; 9:337. [PMID: 38921217 PMCID: PMC11202202 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics9060337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Mycelium-based green composites (MBCs) represent an eco-friendly material innovation with vast potential across diverse applications. This paper provides a thorough review of the factors influencing the production and properties of MBCs, with a particular focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and long-term sustainability goals. It delves into critical aspects such as fungal species selection, substrate type selection, substrate preparation, optimal conditions, dehydrating methods, post-processing techniques, mold design, sterilization processes, cost comparison, key recommendations, and other necessary factors. Regarding fungal species selection, the paper highlights the significance of considering factors like mycelium species, decay type, hyphal network systems, growth rate, and bonding properties in ensuring the safety and suitability of MBCs fabrication. Substrate type selection is discussed, emphasizing the importance of chemical characteristics such as cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin content, pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, and the C: N ratio in determining mycelium growth and MBC properties. Substrate preparation methods, optimal growth conditions, and post-processing techniques are thoroughly examined, along with their impacts on MBCs quality and performance. Moreover, the paper discusses the importance of designing molds and implementing effective sterilization processes to ensure clean environments for mycelium growth. It also evaluates the costs associated with MBCs production compared to traditional materials, highlighting potential cost savings and economic advantages. Additionally, the paper provides key recommendations and precautions for improving MBC properties, including addressing fungal strain degeneration, encouraging research collaboration, establishing biosecurity protocols, ensuring regulatory compliance, optimizing storage conditions, implementing waste management practices, conducting life cycle assessments, and suggesting parameters for desirable MBC properties. Overall, this review offers valuable insights into the complex interplay of factors influencing MBCs production and provides guidance for optimizing processes to achieve sustainable, high-quality composites for diverse applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Worawoot Aiduang
- Office of Research Administration, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (W.A.); (K.J.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Kritsana Jatuwong
- Office of Research Administration, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (W.A.); (K.J.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Thatsanee Luangharn
- Center of Excellence in Fungal Research, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand;
| | - Praween Jinanukul
- Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (P.J.); (T.W.)
| | - Wandee Thamjaree
- Department of Physics and Materials Science, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
| | | | - Tanut Waroonkun
- Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (P.J.); (T.W.)
| | - Saisamorn Lumyong
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Academy of Science, The Royal Society of Thailand, Bangkok 10300, Thailand
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2
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Holt RR, Munafo JP, Salmen J, Keen CL, Mistry BS, Whiteley JM, Schmitz HH. Mycelium: A Nutrient-Dense Food To Help Address World Hunger, Promote Health, and Support a Regenerative Food System. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:2697-2707. [PMID: 38054424 PMCID: PMC10853969 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c03307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
There is a need for transformational innovation within the existing food system to achieve United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2 of ending hunger within a sustainable agricultural system by 2030. Mycelium, the vegetative growth form of filamentous fungi, may represent a convergence of several features crucial for the development of food products that are nutritious, desirable, scalable, affordable, and environmentally sustainable. Mycelium has gained interest as technology advances demonstrate its ability to provide scalable biomass for food production delivering good flavor and quality protein, fiber, and essential micronutrients urgently needed to improve public health. We review the potential of mycelium as an environmentally sustainable food to address malnutrition and undernutrition, driven by food insecurity and caloric dense diets with less than optimal macro- and micronutrient density.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta R. Holt
- Department
of Nutrition, University of California,
Davis, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - John P. Munafo
- Department
of Food Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Julie Salmen
- Nutritious
Ideas, LLC, Saint John, Indiana 46373, United States
| | - Carl L. Keen
- Department
of Nutrition, University of California,
Davis, Davis, California 95616, United States
| | - Behroze S. Mistry
- Meati
Foods, 6880 Winchester
Cir Unit D, Boulder, Colorado 80301, United States
| | - Justin M. Whiteley
- Meati
Foods, 6880 Winchester
Cir Unit D, Boulder, Colorado 80301, United States
| | - Harold H. Schmitz
- March
Capital US, LLC, Davis, California 95616, United States
- T.O.P.,
LLC, Davis, California 95616, United States
- Graduate
School of Management, University of California,
Davis, Davis, California 95616, United States
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3
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Sayfutdinova AR, Cherednichenko KA, Rakitina MA, Dubinich VN, Bardina KA, Rubtsova MI, Petrova DA, Vinokurov VA, Voronin DV. Natural Fibrous Materials Based on Fungal Mycelium Hyphae as Porous Supports for Shape-Stable Phase-Change Composites. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4504. [PMID: 38231929 PMCID: PMC10708136 DOI: 10.3390/polym15234504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Adsorption of organic phase-change materials (PCMs) by the porous matrix of microfibrillar cellulose (MFC) is a simple and versatile way to prepare shape-stable phase-change composites, which are promising as sustainable thermoregulating additives to construction materials. However, due to MFC inherent morphology, the resulting composites have relatively low poured density that complicates their introduction in sufficient amounts, for instance, into mortar mixes. Unlike MFC, fungal mycelium has, by an order, less fibrils thickness and, thus, possesses significantly higher poured density. Herein, we studied the feasibility of fungal mycelium-based matrices as alternative biopolymeric porous supports for preparation of sustainable and shape-stable phase-change composites. Two methods were employed to prepare the porous mycelium-based supports. The first one was the solid-state fermentation, which resulted in partial biotransformation of MFCs to mycelium hyphae, while the second one was the liquid-state surface fermentation, used to cultivate the reference matrix of Trametes hirsuta hyphae. The phase-change composites were prepared by adsorption of model organic PCMs on porous biopolymer matrices. The mass ratio of support/PCM was 40/60 wt%. The composites were studied with respect to their structure, composition, poured density, latent heat storage properties, and thermal and shape stability. The employment of the partially transformed to mycelium-hyphae MFC fibers was found to be a suitable way to prepare phase-change composites with improved poured density while preserving a reasonable latent heat capacity and shape stability as compared to the MFC/PCM composites.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Denis V. Voronin
- Department of Physical and Colloid Chemistry, National University of Oil and Gas “Gubkin University”, Moscow 119991, Russia
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4
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Scholtmeijer K, van den Broek LAM, Fischer ARH, van Peer A. Potential Protein Production from Lignocellulosic Materials Using Edible Mushroom Forming Fungi. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:4450-4457. [PMID: 36883423 PMCID: PMC10037329 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.2c08828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
There is a need for new protein sources to feed the world in a sustainable way. Converting non-food-grade "woody" side streams into food containing proteins will contribute to this mission. Mushroom forming fungi are unique in their capability to convert lignocellulosic substances into edible biomass containing protein. Especially if substrate mycelium can be used instead of mushrooms, this technology could be a serious contribution to addressing the protein challenge. In this Perspective, we discuss challenges toward production, purification, and market introduction of mushroom mycelium based foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Scholtmeijer
- Wageningen
Plant Breeding Research, Mushroom Research
Group, Droevensdaalsesteeg
1, 6708PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Arnout R. H. Fischer
- Wageningen
University Marketing and Consumer Behaviour Group, Hollandseweg 1, 6706KN Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Arend van Peer
- Wageningen
Plant Breeding Research, Mushroom Research
Group, Droevensdaalsesteeg
1, 6708PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
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5
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An B, Wang Y, Huang Y, Wang X, Liu Y, Xun D, Church GM, Dai Z, Yi X, Tang TC, Zhong C. Engineered Living Materials For Sustainability. Chem Rev 2023; 123:2349-2419. [PMID: 36512650 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in synthetic biology and materials science have given rise to a new form of materials, namely engineered living materials (ELMs), which are composed of living matter or cell communities embedded in self-regenerating matrices of their own or artificial scaffolds. Like natural materials such as bone, wood, and skin, ELMs, which possess the functional capabilities of living organisms, can grow, self-organize, and self-repair when needed. They also spontaneously perform programmed biological functions upon sensing external cues. Currently, ELMs show promise for green energy production, bioremediation, disease treatment, and fabricating advanced smart materials. This review first introduces the dynamic features of natural living systems and their potential for developing novel materials. We then summarize the recent research progress on living materials and emerging design strategies from both synthetic biology and materials science perspectives. Finally, we discuss the positive impacts of living materials on promoting sustainability and key future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bolin An
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yanyi Wang
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yuanyuan Huang
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xinyu Wang
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yuzhu Liu
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Dongmin Xun
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - George M Church
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston 02115, Massachusetts United States.,Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston 02115, Massachusetts United States
| | - Zhuojun Dai
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xiao Yi
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Tzu-Chieh Tang
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston 02115, Massachusetts United States.,Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston 02115, Massachusetts United States
| | - Chao Zhong
- Center for Materials Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
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6
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Unlocking the magic in mycelium: Using synthetic biology to optimize filamentous fungi for biomanufacturing and sustainability. Mater Today Bio 2023; 19:100560. [PMID: 36756210 PMCID: PMC9900623 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Filamentous fungi drive carbon and nutrient cycling across our global ecosystems, through its interactions with growing and decaying flora and their constituent microbiomes. The remarkable metabolic diversity, secretion ability, and fiber-like mycelial structure that have evolved in filamentous fungi have been increasingly exploited in commercial operations. The industrial potential of mycelial fermentation ranges from the discovery and bioproduction of enzymes and bioactive compounds, the decarbonization of food and material production, to environmental remediation and enhanced agricultural production. Despite its fundamental impact in ecology and biotechnology, molds and mushrooms have not, to-date, significantly intersected with synthetic biology in ways comparable to other industrial cell factories (e.g. Escherichia coli,Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Komagataella phaffii). In this review, we summarize a suite of synthetic biology and computational tools for the mining, engineering and optimization of filamentous fungi as a bioproduction chassis. A combination of methods across genetic engineering, mutagenesis, experimental evolution, and computational modeling can be used to address strain development bottlenecks in established and emerging industries. These include slow mycelium growth rate, low production yields, non-optimal growth in alternative feedstocks, and difficulties in downstream purification. In the scope of biomanufacturing, we then detail previous efforts in improving key bottlenecks by targeting protein processing and secretion pathways, hyphae morphogenesis, and transcriptional control. Bringing synthetic biology practices into the hidden world of molds and mushrooms will serve to expand the limited panel of host organisms that allow for commercially-feasible and environmentally-sustainable bioproduction of enzymes, chemicals, therapeutics, foods, and materials of the future.
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7
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Li K, Jia J, Wu N, Xu Q. Recent advances in the construction of biocomposites based on fungal mycelia. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1067869. [PMID: 36466339 PMCID: PMC9713584 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1067869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, environmental problems have become increasingly serious, significantly effecting the ecosystem and human health. To deal with the problem of environmental pollution in an eco-conscious way, sustainable composite biomaterials are being produced. Mycelium-based composite biomaterials combine biological systems with substrates such as nanomaterials or agricultural and industrial wastes, which can complement each other's advantages or turn waste into a useful resource. Such materials can solve practical wastewater problems as well as replace plastic products, thus reducing plastic pollution and contributing to the green transition of the environment. In this review, we summarized the recent findings of studies on these materials, indicating future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Qing Xu
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
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8
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Peng L, Yi J, Yang X, Xie J, Chen C. Development and Characterization of Mycelium Bio-Composites by Utilization of Different Agricultural Residual Byproducts. JOURNAL OF BIORESOURCES AND BIOPRODUCTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jobab.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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9
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Sydor M, Cofta G, Doczekalska B, Bonenberg A. Fungi in Mycelium-Based Composites: Usage and Recommendations. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 15:ma15186283. [PMID: 36143594 PMCID: PMC9505859 DOI: 10.3390/ma15186283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Mycelium-Based Composites (MBCs) are innovative engineering materials made from lignocellulosic by-products bonded with fungal mycelium. While some performance characteristics of MBCs are inferior to those of currently used engineering materials, these composites nevertheless prove to be superior in ecological aspects. Improving the properties of MBCs may be achieved using an adequate substrate type, fungus species, and manufacturing technology. This article presents scientifically verified guiding principles for choosing a fungus species to obtain the desired effect. This aim was realized based on analyses of scientific articles concerning MBCs, mycological literature, and patent documents. Based on these analyses, over 70 fungi species used to manufacture MBC have been identified and the most commonly used combinations of fungi species-substrate-manufacturing technology are presented. The main result of this review was to demonstrate the characteristics of the fungi considered optimal in terms of the resulting engineering material properties. Thus, a list of the 11 main fungus characteristics that increase the effectiveness in the engineering material formation include: rapid hyphae growth, high virulence, dimitic or trimitic hyphal system, white rot decay type, high versatility in nutrition, high tolerance to a substrate, environmental parameters, susceptibility to readily controlled factors, easy to deactivate, saprophytic, non-mycotoxic, and capability to biosynthesize natural active substances. An additional analysis result is a list of the names of fungus species, the types of substrates used, the applications of the material produced, and the main findings reported in the scientific literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Sydor
- Department of Woodworking and Fundamentals of Machine Design, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznań University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznań, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-618466144
| | - Grzegorz Cofta
- Department of Chemical Wood Technology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznań University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Beata Doczekalska
- Department of Chemical Wood Technology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznań University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Agata Bonenberg
- Institute of Interior Design and Industrial Design, Faculty of Architecture, Poznan University of Technology, 60-965 Poznań, Poland
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10
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Sayfutdinova A, Samofalova I, Barkov A, Cherednichenko K, Rimashevskiy D, Vinokurov V. Structure and Properties of Cellulose/Mycelium Biocomposites. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14081519. [PMID: 35458267 PMCID: PMC9030294 DOI: 10.3390/polym14081519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The current environmental problems require the use of low-energy, environmentally friendly methods and nature-like technologies for the creation of materials. In this work, we aim to study the possibility of the direct biotransformation of fibrillar cellulose by fungi through obtaining a cellulose/mycelium-based biocomposite. The cellulose micro- and nanofibrils were used as the main carbon sources in the solid-phase cultivation of basidiomycete Trametes hirsuta. The cellulose fibrils in this process act as a template for growing mycelium with the formation of well-developed net structure. The biotransformation dynamics of cellulose fibrils were studied with the help of scanning electron microscopy. The appearance of nitrogen in the structure of formed fibers was revealed by elemental analysis and FTIR-spectroscopy. The fibers diameters were estimated based on micrograph analysis and the laser diffraction method. It was shown that the diameter of cellulose fibrils can be tuned by fungi through obtaining cellulose-based mycelium fibers with a narrower diameter-size distribution as compared to the pristine cellulose fibrils. The morphology of the resulting mycelium differed when the micro or nanofibrils were used as a substrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeliya Sayfutdinova
- Department of Physical and Colloidal Chemistry, Gubkin University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (A.B.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (K.C.); (V.V.)
| | - Irina Samofalova
- Department of Physical and Colloidal Chemistry, Gubkin University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (A.B.)
| | - Artem Barkov
- Department of Physical and Colloidal Chemistry, Gubkin University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (A.B.)
| | - Kirill Cherednichenko
- Department of Physical and Colloidal Chemistry, Gubkin University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (A.B.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (K.C.); (V.V.)
| | - Denis Rimashevskiy
- Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics, RUDN University, 117198 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Vladimir Vinokurov
- Department of Physical and Colloidal Chemistry, Gubkin University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.); (A.B.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (K.C.); (V.V.)
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11
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12
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van den Brandhof JG, Wösten HAB. Risk assessment of fungal materials. Fungal Biol Biotechnol 2022; 9:3. [PMID: 35209958 PMCID: PMC8876125 DOI: 10.1186/s40694-022-00134-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sustainable fungal materials have a high potential to replace non-sustainable materials such as those used for packaging or as an alternative for leather and textile. The properties of fungal materials depend on the type of fungus and substrate, the growth conditions and post-treatment of the material. So far, fungal materials are mainly made with species from the phylum Basidiomycota, selected for the mechanical and physical properties they provide. However, for mycelium materials to be implemented in society on a large scale, selection of fungal species should also be based on a risk assessment of the potential to be pathogenic, form mycotoxins, attract insects, or become an invasive species. Moreover, production processes should be standardized to ensure reproducibility and safety of the product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeroen G van den Brandhof
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Han A B Wösten
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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13
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Sydor M, Bonenberg A, Doczekalska B, Cofta G. Mycelium-Based Composites in Art, Architecture, and Interior Design: A Review. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 14:145. [PMID: 35012167 PMCID: PMC8747211 DOI: 10.3390/polym14010145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycelium-based composites (MBCs) have attracted growing attention due to their role in the development of eco-design methods. We concurrently analysed scientific publications, patent documents, and results of our own feasibility studies to identify the current design issues and technologies used. A literature inquiry in scientific and patent databases (WoS, Scopus, The Lens, Google Patents) pointed to 92 scientific publications and 212 patent documents. As a part of our own technological experiments, we have created several prototype products used in architectural interior design. Following the synthesis, these sources of knowledge can be concluded: 1. MBCs are inexpensive in production, ecological, and offer a high artistic value. Their weaknesses are insufficient load capacity, unfavourable water affinity, and unknown reliability. 2. The scientific literature shows that the material parameters of MBCs can be adjusted to certain needs, but there are almost infinite combinations: properties of the input biomaterials, characteristics of the fungi species, and possible parameters during the growth and subsequent processing of the MBCs. 3. The patent documents show the need for development: an effective method to increase the density and the search for technologies to obtain a more homogeneous internal structure of the composite material. 4. Our own experiments with the production of various everyday objects indicate that some disadvantages of MBCs can be considered advantages. Such an unexpected advantage is the interesting surface texture resulting from the natural inhomogeneity of the internal structure of MBCs, which can be controlled to some extent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Sydor
- Department of Woodworking and Fundamentals of Machine Design, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznań University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznań, Poland
| | - Agata Bonenberg
- Institute of Interior Design and Industrial Design, Faculty of Architecture, Poznan University of Technology, 60-965 Poznań, Poland;
| | - Beata Doczekalska
- Department of Chemical Wood Technology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznań University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznań, Poland; (B.D.); (G.C.)
| | - Grzegorz Cofta
- Department of Chemical Wood Technology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology, Poznań University of Life Sciences, 60-637 Poznań, Poland; (B.D.); (G.C.)
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14
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Vandelook S, Elsacker E, Van Wylick A, De Laet L, Peeters E. Current state and future prospects of pure mycelium materials. Fungal Biol Biotechnol 2021; 8:20. [PMID: 34930476 PMCID: PMC8691024 DOI: 10.1186/s40694-021-00128-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In the context of the ongoing transition from a linear to a circular economy, ecologically friendly renewable solutions are put in place. Filamentous fungi can be grown on various organic feedstocks and functionalized into a range of diverse material types which are biobased and thus more sustainable in terms of their production, use and recycling. Pure mycelium materials, consisting only of mycelial biomass, can adopt versatile properties and appear promising as a substitute for current petrochemically produced polymeric materials or, in the case of myco-leather, as a substitute for animal-based leather. In recent years, a handful of private companies have been innovating to bring products based on pure mycelium materials to the market while scientific interest in these promising biomaterials is now starting to gain momentum. In this primer, we introduce pure mycelium materials, frame different production methods, review existing and potential future applications, thereby offering a vision on future advances for this emerging fungi-based technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Vandelook
- Research Group of Microbiology, Department of Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elise Elsacker
- Research Group of Microbiology, Department of Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050, Brussels, Belgium
- Research Group of Architectural Engineering, Department of Architectural Engineering, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050, Brussels, Belgium
- Hub for Biotechnology in the Built Environment, Devonshire Building, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, UK
| | - Aurélie Van Wylick
- Research Group of Microbiology, Department of Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050, Brussels, Belgium
- Research Group of Architectural Engineering, Department of Architectural Engineering, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lars De Laet
- Research Group of Architectural Engineering, Department of Architectural Engineering, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Eveline Peeters
- Research Group of Microbiology, Department of Bioengineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050, Brussels, Belgium.
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15
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Cartabia M, Girometta CE, Milanese C, Baiguera RM, Buratti S, Branciforti DS, Vadivel D, Girella A, Babbini S, Savino E, Dondi D. Collection and Characterization of Wood Decay Fungal Strains for Developing Pure Mycelium Mats. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:1008. [PMID: 34946991 PMCID: PMC8703653 DOI: 10.3390/jof7121008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Wood decay fungi (WDF) seem to be particularly suitable for developing myco-materials due to their mycelial texture, ease of cultivation, and lack of sporification. This study focused on a collection of WDF strains that were later used to develop mycelium mats of leather-like materials. Twenty-one WDF strains were chosen based on the color, homogeneity, and consistency of the mycelia. The growth rate of each strain was measured. To improve the consistency and thickness of the mats, an exclusive method (newly patented) was developed. The obtained materials and the corresponding pure mycelia grown in liquid culture were analyzed by both thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to evaluate the principal components and texture. TGA provided a semi-quantitative indication on the mycelia and mat composition, but it was hardly able to discriminate differences in the production process (liquid culture versus patented method). SEM provided keen insight on the mycelial microstructure as well as that of the mat without considering the composition; however, it was able to determine the hyphae and porosity dimensions. Although not exhaustive, TGA and SEM are complementary methods that can be used to characterize fungal strains based on their desirable features for various applications in bio-based materials. Taking all of the results into account, the Fomitopsis iberica strain seems to be the most suitable for the development of leather-like materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cartabia
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.C.); (R.M.B.); (S.B.); (E.S.)
- MOGU S.r.l., Via S. Francesco 62, 21020 Inarzo, Italy;
| | - Carolina Elena Girometta
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.C.); (R.M.B.); (S.B.); (E.S.)
| | - Chiara Milanese
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.M.); (D.S.B.); (D.V.); (A.G.); (D.D.)
| | - Rebecca Michela Baiguera
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.C.); (R.M.B.); (S.B.); (E.S.)
| | - Simone Buratti
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.C.); (R.M.B.); (S.B.); (E.S.)
| | - Diego Savio Branciforti
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.M.); (D.S.B.); (D.V.); (A.G.); (D.D.)
| | - Dhanalakshmi Vadivel
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.M.); (D.S.B.); (D.V.); (A.G.); (D.D.)
| | - Alessandro Girella
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.M.); (D.S.B.); (D.V.); (A.G.); (D.D.)
| | | | - Elena Savino
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (M.C.); (R.M.B.); (S.B.); (E.S.)
| | - Daniele Dondi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (C.M.); (D.S.B.); (D.V.); (A.G.); (D.D.)
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16
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Antinori ME, Contardi M, Suarato G, Armirotti A, Bertorelli R, Mancini G, Debellis D, Athanassiou A. Advanced mycelium materials as potential self-growing biomedical scaffolds. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12630. [PMID: 34135362 PMCID: PMC8209158 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91572-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycelia, the vegetative part of fungi, are emerging as the avant-garde generation of natural, sustainable, and biodegradable materials for a wide range of applications. They are constituted of a self-growing and interconnected fibrous network of elongated cells, and their chemical and physical properties can be adjusted depending on the conditions of growth and the substrate they are fed upon. So far, only extracts and derivatives from mycelia have been evaluated and tested for biomedical applications. In this study, the entire fibrous structures of mycelia of the edible fungi Pleurotus ostreatus and Ganoderma lucidum are presented as self-growing bio-composites that mimic the extracellular matrix of human body tissues, ideal as tissue engineering bio-scaffolds. To this purpose, the two mycelial strains are inactivated by autoclaving after growth, and their morphology, cell wall chemical composition, and hydrodynamical and mechanical features are studied. Finally, their biocompatibility and direct interaction with primary human dermal fibroblasts are investigated. The findings demonstrate the potentiality of mycelia as all-natural and low-cost bio-scaffolds, alternative to the tissue engineering systems currently in place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Elena Antinori
- Smart Materials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
- DIBRIS, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marco Contardi
- Smart Materials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Giulia Suarato
- Smart Materials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
- Translational Pharmacology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Andrea Armirotti
- Analytical Chemistry Lab, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Rosalia Bertorelli
- Translational Pharmacology, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Giorgio Mancini
- Smart Materials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Doriana Debellis
- Electron Microscopy Facility, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Athanassia Athanassiou
- Smart Materials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163, Genova, Italy.
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17
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Gandia A, van den Brandhof JG, Appels FVW, Jones MP. Flexible Fungal Materials: Shaping the Future. Trends Biotechnol 2021; 39:1321-1331. [PMID: 33812663 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2021.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Fungi are a revolutionary, smart, and sustainable manufacturing platform that can be used to upcycle byproducts and wastes into flexible fungal materials (FFMs) such as chitin- and β-glucan-based foams, paper, and textiles. With highly adaptable manufacturing pathways, the efficiency and properties of these materials depend on the biomass source and fermentation method. Liquid substrates provide fast, upscalable, and compact production processes but are susceptible to contamination and are limited to paper-like materials for printing, wound dressings, and membranes. Solid-state fermentation is cheaper but struggles to deliver homogeneous fungal growth and is used to produce fungal foams for packaging, insulation, textiles, and leather substitutes. The broad range of applications and uses of biological organisms in materials hallmarks fungi as forerunners in improving environmental sustainability globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoni Gandia
- Institut de Biologia Molecular i Cellular de Plantes (IBMCP), Consell Superior d'Investigacions Científiques (CSIC), Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jeroen G van den Brandhof
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Freek V W Appels
- Microbiology, Department of Biology, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Mitchell P Jones
- Institute of Materials Science and Technology, Faculty of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Vienna University of Technology, Getreidemarkt 9, 1060 Vienna, Austria; Institute of Material Chemistry and Research, Polymer and Composite Engineering (PaCE) Group, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, Währinger Strasse 42, 1090 Vienna, Austria; School of Engineering, RMIT University, Bundoora East Campus, PO Box 71, Bundoora 3083, VIC, Australia.
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18
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Sun W, Tajvidi M, Howell C, Hunt CG. Functionality of Surface Mycelium Interfaces in Wood Bonding. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:57431-57440. [PMID: 33306341 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c18165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Filamentous fungi have been considered as candidates to replace petroleum-based adhesives and plastics in novel composite material production, particularly those containing lignocellulosic materials. However, the nature of the role of surface mycelium in the adhesion between lignocellulosic composite components is not well-known. The current study investigated the functionality of surface mycelium for wood bonding by incubating Trametes versicolor on yellow birch veneers and compared the lap-shear strengths after hot-pressing to evaluate if the presence of surface mycelium can improve the interface between two wood layers and consequently improve bonding. We found that the lap-shear strength of the samples was enhanced by the increase of surface mycelium coverage up to 8 days of incubation (up to 1.74 MPa) without a significant wood weight loss. We provide evidence that the bottom surface of the mycelium layer is more hydrophilic, contains more small-scale filamentous structure and contains more functional groups, resulting in better bonding with wood than the top surface. These observations confirm and highlight the functionality of the surface mycelium layer for wood bonding and provide useful information for future developments in fully biobased composites manufacturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Sun
- Laboratory of Renewable Nanomaterials, School of Forest Resources, University of Maine, Nutting Hall, Orono, Maine 04469-5755, United States
- Advanced Structures and Composites Center, University of Maine, 35 Flagstaff Road, Orono, Maine 04469-5755, United States
| | - Mehdi Tajvidi
- Laboratory of Renewable Nanomaterials, School of Forest Resources, University of Maine, Nutting Hall, Orono, Maine 04469-5755, United States
- Advanced Structures and Composites Center, University of Maine, 35 Flagstaff Road, Orono, Maine 04469-5755, United States
| | - Caitlin Howell
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, Maine 04469-5755, United States
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, University of Maine, Orono, Maine 04469-5755, United States
| | - Christopher G Hunt
- USDA Forest Products Laboratory, 1 Gifford Pinchot Drive, Madison, Wisconsin 53726, United States
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de Lima GG, Schoenherr ZCP, Magalhães WLE, Tavares LBB, Helm CV. Enzymatic activities and analysis of a mycelium-based composite formation using peach palm (Bactris gasipaes) residues on Lentinula edodes. BIORESOUR BIOPROCESS 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s40643-020-00346-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
By seeding fungus on top of industry residues, a mycelium can grow and form a compact network structure; however, it may not develop due to lack of optimal nutrients from the substrate. Consequently, peach-palm residues can be a potential alternative; so, to test this hypothesis, this work evaluates the effect of peach-palm residues as substrate for the growth of mycelium based on Lentinula edodes. They were also supplemented with cassava bran and various sources of nitrogen-ammonium sulphate, potassium nitrate, and soy flour—to analyse its effects on its physico-chemical, enzymatic activities, and thermal and mechanical properties of the final composite at 12 and 20 days of cultivation. This mycelium was able to grow at optimum source treatment conditions, which depends on the ratio of Carbon to Nitrogen, within only 12 days of inoculation. Furthermore, the enzyme activities directly correlate with the mycelium growth with optimum conditions of pH, water activity, and moisture for L. edodes to grow having lower enzyme activities for a well-developed composite; whereas higher activities were seen for a weakly developed material, and this material demonstrates mechanical and thermal properties similar to common mycelium-based composites. Therefore, this work demonstrates that peach-palm residues can be a potential alternative for mycelium-based composite.
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