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Klemm S, Freidank-Pohl C, Bauer L, Mantouvalou I, Simon U, Fleck C. Hierarchical structure and chemical composition of complementary segments of the fruiting bodies of Fomes fomentarius fungi fine-tune the compressive properties. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304614. [PMID: 38870218 PMCID: PMC11175439 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Humanity is often fascinated by structures and materials developed by Nature. While structural materials such as wood have been widely studied, the structural and mechanical properties of fungi are still largely unknown. One of the structurally interesting fungi is the polypore Fomes fomentarius. The present study deals with the investigation of the light but robust fruiting body of F. fomentarius. The four segments of the fruiting body (crust, trama, hymenium, and mycelial core) were examined. The comprehensive analysis included structural, chemical, and mechanical characterization with particular attention to cell wall composition, such as chitin/chitosan and glucan content, degree of deacetylation, and distribution of trace elements. The hymenium exhibited the best mechanical properties even though having the highest porosity. Our results suggest that this outstanding strength is due to the high proportion of skeletal hyphae and the highest chitin/chitosan content in the cell wall, next to its honeycomb structure. In addition, an increased calcium content was found in the hymenium and crust, and the presence of calcium oxalate crystals was confirmed by SEM-EDX. Interestingly, layers with different densities as well as layers of varying calcium and potassium depletion were found in the crust. Our results show the importance of considering the different structural and compositional characteristics of the segments when developing fungal-inspired materials and products. Moreover, the porous yet robust structure of hymenium is a promising blueprint for the development of advanced smart materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Klemm
- Technische Universität Berlin, Faculty III Process Sciences, Institute of Materials Science and Technology, Fachgebiet Werkstofftechnik/Chair of Materials Science & Engineering, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Freidank-Pohl
- Technische Universität Berlin, Faculty III Process Sciences, Institute of Biotechnology, Chair of Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Leona Bauer
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Technische Universität Berlin, Faculty II Mathematics and Natural Sciences, BLiX, Institute for Optics and Atomic Physics, Analytical X-ray physics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ioanna Mantouvalou
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Technische Universität Berlin, Faculty II Mathematics and Natural Sciences, BLiX, Institute for Optics and Atomic Physics, Analytical X-ray physics, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulla Simon
- Technische Universität Berlin, Faculty III Process Sciences, Institute of Materials Science and Technology, Chair of Advanced Ceramic Materials, Berlin, Germany
| | - Claudia Fleck
- Technische Universität Berlin, Faculty III Process Sciences, Institute of Materials Science and Technology, Fachgebiet Werkstofftechnik/Chair of Materials Science & Engineering, Berlin, Germany
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2
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Zhang M, Zhao X, Bai M, Xue J, Liu R, Huang Y, Wang M, Cao J. High-Performance Engineered Composites Biofabrication Using Fungi. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2309171. [PMID: 38196296 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202309171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Various natural polymers offer sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based adhesives, enabling the creation of high-performance engineered materials. However, additional chemical modifications and complicated manufacturing procedures remain unavoidable. Here, a sustainable high-performance engineered composite that benefits from bonding strategies with multiple energy dissipation mechanisms dominated by chemical adhesion and mechanical interlocking is demonstrated via the fungal smart creative platform. Chemical adhesion is predominantly facilitated by the extracellular polymeric substrates and glycosylated proteins present in the fungal outer cell walls. The dynamic feature of non-covalent interactions represented by hydrogen bonding endows the composite with extensive unique properties including healing, recyclability, and scalable manufacturing. Mechanical interlocking involves multiple mycelial networks (elastic modulus of 2.8 GPa) binding substrates, and the fungal inner wall skeleton composed of chitin and β-glucan imparts product stability. The physicochemical properties of composite (modulus of elasticity of 1455.3 MPa, internal bond strength of 0.55 MPa, hardness of 82.8, and contact angle of 110.2°) are comparable or even superior to those of engineered lignocellulosic materials created using petroleum-based polymers or bioadhesives. High-performance composite biofabrication using fungi may inspire the creation of other sustainable engineered materials with the assistance of the extraordinary capabilities of living organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingchang Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Wooden Material Science and Application, College of Material Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoqi Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Wooden Material Science and Application, College of Material Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, P. R. China
| | - Mingyang Bai
- MOE Key Laboratory of Wooden Material Science and Application, College of Material Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, P. R. China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Tree Breeding by Molecular Design, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, P. R. China
| | - Jing Xue
- MOE Key Laboratory of Wooden Material Science and Application, College of Material Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, P. R. China
- Public Analysis and Test Center, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, P. R. China
| | - Ru Liu
- Research Institute of Wood Industry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing, 100091, P. R. China
| | - Yuxiang Huang
- Research Institute of Wood Industry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing, 100091, P. R. China
| | - Mingzhi Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Wooden Material Science and Application, College of Material Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, P. R. China
| | - Jinzhen Cao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Wooden Material Science and Application, College of Material Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing, 100083, P. R. China
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Lehmann C, Schmidt B, Stephan D, Meyer V. Investigation of the interface of fungal mycelium composite building materials by means of low-vacuum scanning electron microscopy. J Microsc 2024; 294:203-214. [PMID: 38511469 DOI: 10.1111/jmi.13292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Low-vacuum scanning electron microscopy (low-vacuum SEM) is widely used for different applications, such as the investigation of noncoated specimen or the observation of biological materials, which are not stable to high vacuum. In this study, the combination of mineral building materials (concrete or clay plaster) with a biological composite (fungal mycelium composite) by using low-vacuum SEM was investigated. Fungal biotechnology is increasingly gaining prominence in addressing the challenges of sustainability transformation. The construction industry is one of the biggest contributors to the climate crises and, therefore, can highly profit from applications based on regenerative fungal materials. In this work, a fungal mycelium composite is used as alternative to conventional insulating materials like Styrofoam. However, to adapt bio-based products to the construction industry, investigations, optimisations and adaptations to existing solutions are needed. This paper examines the compatibility between fungal mycelium materials with mineral-based materials to demonstrate basic feasibility. For this purpose, fresh and hardened concrete specimens as well as clay plaster samples are combined with growing mycelium from the tinder fungus Fomes fomentarius. The contact zone between the mycelium composite and the mineral building materials is examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The combination of these materials proves to be feasible in general. The use of hardened concrete or clay with living mycelium composite appears to be the favoured variant, as the hyphae can grow into the surface of the building material and thus a layered structure with a stable connection is formed. In order to work with the combination of low-density organic materials and higher-density inorganic materials simultaneously, low-vacuum SEM offers a suitable method to deliver results with reduced effort in preparation while maintaining high capture and magnification quality. Not only are image recordings possible with SE and BSE, but EDX measurements can also be carried out quickly without the influence of a coating. Depending on the signal used, as well as the magnification, image-recording strategies must be adapted. Especially when using SE, an image-integration method was used to reduce the build-up of point charges from the electron beam, which damages the mycelial hyphae. Additionally using different signals during image capture is recommended to confirm acquired information, avoiding misinterpretations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Lehmann
- Department of Building Materials and Construction Chemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Bertram Schmidt
- Department of Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dietmar Stephan
- Department of Building Materials and Construction Chemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vera Meyer
- Department of Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Aiduang W, Jatuwong K, Jinanukul P, Suwannarach N, Kumla J, Thamjaree W, Teeraphantuvat T, Waroonkun T, Oranratmanee R, Lumyong S. Sustainable Innovation: Fabrication and Characterization of Mycelium-Based Green Composites for Modern Interior Materials Using Agro-Industrial Wastes and Different Species of Fungi. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:550. [PMID: 38399928 PMCID: PMC10891725 DOI: 10.3390/polym16040550] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Worawoot Aiduang
- Office of Research Administration, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (W.A.); (K.J.); (N.S.); (J.K.)
- 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.); (N.S.); (J.K.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Praween Jinanukul
- Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (P.J.); (T.W.); (R.O.)
| | - Nakarin Suwannarach
- Office of Research Administration, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (W.A.); (K.J.); (N.S.); (J.K.)
- Center of Excellence in Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Jaturong Kumla
- Office of Research Administration, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (W.A.); (K.J.); (N.S.); (J.K.)
- Center of Excellence in Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - 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.); (R.O.)
| | - Rawiwan Oranratmanee
- Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand; (P.J.); (T.W.); (R.O.)
| | - 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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Teeraphantuvat T, Jatuwong K, Jinanukul P, Thamjaree W, Lumyong S, Aiduang W. Improving the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Mycelium-Based Green Composites Using Paper Waste. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:262. [PMID: 38257061 PMCID: PMC10820316 DOI: 10.3390/polym16020262] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
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.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kritsana Jatuwong
- Office of Research Administration, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Praween Jinanukul
- Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
| | - Wandee Thamjaree
- Department of Physics and Materials Science, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
| | - 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
| | - Worawoot Aiduang
- Office of Research Administration, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand;
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
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Schmidt B, Freidank-Pohl C, Zillessen J, Stelzer L, Guitar TN, Lühr C, Müller H, Zhang F, Hammel JU, Briesen H, Jung S, Gusovius HJ, Meyer V. Mechanical, physical and thermal properties of composite materials produced with the basidiomycete Fomes fomentarius. Fungal Biol Biotechnol 2023; 10:22. [PMID: 38049892 PMCID: PMC10694974 DOI: 10.1186/s40694-023-00169-8] [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: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To achieve climate neutrality, fundamentally new concepts of circularity need to be implemented by the building sector as it contributes to 40% of anthropogenic CO2 emission. Fungal biotechnology can make a significant contribution here and help eliminate fossil dependency for building material production. Recently, we have shown that the medicinal polypore Fomes fomentarius feeds well on renewable lignocellulosic biomass and produces composite materials that could potentially replace fossil fuel-based expanded polystyrene as insulation material. RESULTS In this study, we explored the mechanical, physical, and thermal properties of F. fomentarius-based composite materials in more detail and determined key performance parameters that are important to evaluate the usability of F. fomentarius-based composite materials in the construction sector. These parameters were determined according to European standards and included compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, thermal conductivity, water vapour permeability, and flammability of uncompressed composites as well as flexural strength, transverse tensile strength, and water absorption capacity of heat-pressed composites, among others. We could show that uncompressed composites obtained from F. fomentarius and hemp shives display a thermal conductivity of 0.044 W (m K)-1 which is in the range of natural organic fibres. A water vapour permeability of 1.72 and classification into flammability class B1 clearly surpasses fossil-based insulation materials including expanded polystyrene and polyurethane. We could furthermore show that heat-pressing can be used to reliably generate stiff and firm particleboards that have the potential to replace current wood-based particleboards that contain synthetic additives. X-ray microcomputed tomography finally visualized for the first time the growth of hyphae of F. fomentarius on and into the hemp shive substrates and generated high-resolution images of the microstructure of F. fomentarius-based composites. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that fungal-based composites produced with F. fomentarius partially meet or even exceed key performance parameters of currently used fossil fuel-based insulation materials and can also be used to replace particleboards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertram Schmidt
- Chair of Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Technische Universität Berlin, Str. des 17. Juni 135, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Freidank-Pohl
- Chair of Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Technische Universität Berlin, Str. des 17. Juni 135, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Justus Zillessen
- Chair of Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Technische Universität Berlin, Str. des 17. Juni 135, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lisa Stelzer
- Chair of Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Technische Universität Berlin, Str. des 17. Juni 135, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tamara Núñez Guitar
- Chair of Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Technische Universität Berlin, Str. des 17. Juni 135, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carsten Lühr
- Department Systems Process Engineering, Leibniz-Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy (ATB), Max-Eyth-Allee 100, 14469, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Henri Müller
- School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Chair of Process Systems Engineering, Technical University of Munich, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Fangxing Zhang
- School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Chair of Process Systems Engineering, Technical University of Munich, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Jörg U Hammel
- Institute of Materials Physics, Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, Max-Planck-Str 1, 21502, Geesthacht, Germany
| | - Heiko Briesen
- School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Chair of Process Systems Engineering, Technical University of Munich, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Sascha Jung
- Chair of Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Technische Universität Berlin, Str. des 17. Juni 135, 10623, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hans-Jörg Gusovius
- Department Systems Process Engineering, Leibniz-Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy (ATB), Max-Eyth-Allee 100, 14469, Potsdam, Germany.
| | - Vera Meyer
- Chair of Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Technische Universität Berlin, Str. des 17. Juni 135, 10623, Berlin, Germany.
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Charpentier-Alfaro C, Benavides-Hernández J, Poggerini M, Crisci A, Mele G, Della Rocca G, Emiliani G, Frascella A, Torrigiani T, Palanti S. Wood-Decaying Fungi: From Timber Degradation to Sustainable Insulating Biomaterials Production. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:ma16093547. [PMID: 37176430 PMCID: PMC10179824 DOI: 10.3390/ma16093547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Addressing the impacts of climate change and global warming has become an urgent priority for the planet's well-being. In recent decades the great potential of fungal-based products with characteristics equal to, or even outperforming, classic petroleum-derived products has been acknowledged. These new materials present the added advantage of having a reduced carbon footprint, less environmental impact and contributing to the shift away from a fossil-based economy. This study focused on the production of insulation panels using fungal mycelium and lignocellulosic materials as substrates. The process was optimized, starting with the selection of Trametes versicolor, Pleurotus ostreatus, P. eryngii, Ganoderma carnosum and Fomitopsis pinicola isolates, followed by the evaluation of three grain spawn substrates (millet, wheat and a 1:1 mix of millet and wheat grains) for mycelium propagation, and finishing with the production of various mycelium-based composites using five wood by-products and waste materials (pine sawdust, oak shavings, tree of heaven wood chips, wheat straw and shredded beech wood). The obtained biomaterials were characterized for internal structure by X-ray micro-CT, thermal transmittance using a thermoflowmeter and moisture absorption. The results showed that using a wheat and millet 1:1 (w/w) mix is the best option for spawn production regardless of the fungal isolate. In addition, the performance of the final composites was influenced both by the fungal isolate and the substrate used, with the latter having a stronger effect on the measured properties. The study shows that the most promising sustainable insulating biomaterial was created using T. versicolor grown on wheat straw.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Charpentier-Alfaro
- Istituto per la Bioeconomia (IBE), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Madonna del Piano 10, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Firenze, Italy
- Centro Nacional de Innovaciones Biotecnológicas (CENIBiot), CeNAT-CONARE, San José 1174-1200, Costa Rica
| | - Jorge Benavides-Hernández
- Département Chimie, Faculté des Sciences et Technologies, Université de Lille, 59655 Villeneuve-d'Ascq, France
| | - Marco Poggerini
- Istituto per la Bioeconomia (IBE), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Madonna del Piano 10, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Alfonso Crisci
- Istituto per la Bioeconomia (IBE), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Madonna del Piano 10, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Giacomo Mele
- Istituto per i Sistemi Agricoli e Forestali del Mediterraneo (ISAFOM), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, P.Le Enrico Fermi, Portici, 80055 Napoli, Italy
| | - Gianni Della Rocca
- Istituto per la Protezione Sostenibile delle Piante (IPSP), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Madonna del Piano 10, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Giovanni Emiliani
- Istituto per la Protezione Sostenibile delle Piante (IPSP), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Madonna del Piano 10, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Angela Frascella
- Istituto per la Protezione Sostenibile delle Piante (IPSP), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Madonna del Piano 10, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Tommaso Torrigiani
- Laboratorio di Meteorologia Modellistica Ambientale (LaMMA), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Madonna del Piano 10, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Sabrina Palanti
- Istituto per la Bioeconomia (IBE), Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Madonna del Piano 10, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Firenze, Italy
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8
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Pylkkänen R, Werner D, Bishoyi A, Weil D, Scoppola E, Wagermaier W, Safeer A, Bahri S, Baldus M, Paananen A, Penttilä M, Szilvay GR, Mohammadi P. The complex structure of Fomes fomentarius represents an architectural design for high-performance ultralightweight materials. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eade5417. [PMID: 36812306 PMCID: PMC9946349 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ade5417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
High strength, hardness, and fracture toughness are mechanical properties that are not commonly associated with the fleshy body of a fungus. Here, we show with detailed structural, chemical, and mechanical characterization that Fomes fomentarius is an exception, and its architectural design is a source of inspiration for an emerging class of ultralightweight high-performance materials. Our findings reveal that F. fomentarius is a functionally graded material with three distinct layers that undergo multiscale hierarchical self-assembly. Mycelium is the primary component in all layers. However, in each layer, mycelium exhibits a very distinct microstructure with unique preferential orientation, aspect ratio, density, and branch length. We also show that an extracellular matrix acts as a reinforcing adhesive that differs in each layer in terms of quantity, polymeric content, and interconnectivity. These findings demonstrate how the synergistic interplay of the aforementioned features results in distinct mechanical properties for each layer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Pylkkänen
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Espoo, FI-02044 VTT, Finland
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, FI-00076 Aalto, Finland
| | - Daniel Werner
- Department of Biomaterials, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, D-14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Ajit Bishoyi
- NMR Spectroscopy, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Dominik Weil
- KLA-Tencor GmbH, Moritzburger Weg 67, Dresden 01109, Germany
| | - Ernesto Scoppola
- Department of Biomaterials, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, D-14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wagermaier
- Department of Biomaterials, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, D-14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Adil Safeer
- NMR Spectroscopy, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Salima Bahri
- NMR Spectroscopy, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Marc Baldus
- NMR Spectroscopy, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584 CH Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Arja Paananen
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Espoo, FI-02044 VTT, Finland
| | - Merja Penttilä
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Espoo, FI-02044 VTT, Finland
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, FI-00076 Aalto, Finland
| | - Géza R. Szilvay
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Espoo, FI-02044 VTT, Finland
| | - Pezhman Mohammadi
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Espoo, FI-02044 VTT, Finland
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Mechanical, Physical, and Chemical Properties of Mycelium-Based Composites Produced from Various Lignocellulosic Residues and Fungal Species. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8111125. [PMID: 36354892 PMCID: PMC9697540 DOI: 10.3390/jof8111125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycelium-based composites (MBCs) are characterized as biodegradable materials derived from fungal species. These composites can be employed across a range of industrial applications that involve the manufacturing of packaging materials as well as the manufacturing of buildings, furniture, and various other household items. However, different fungal species and substrates can directly affect the functional properties of MBCs, which ultimately vary their potential to be used in many applications. In this study, the mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of MBCs made from four different fungal species (Ganoderma fornicatum, Ganoderma williamsianum, Lentinus sajor-caju, and Schizophyllum commune) combined with three different types of lignocellulosic residues (sawdust, corn husk, and rice straw) were investigated. The results indicate that differences in both the type of lignocellulosic residues and the fungal species could affect the properties of the obtained MBCs. It was found that the MBCs obtained from sawdust had the highest degree of density. Moreover, MBCs obtained from S. commune with all three types of lignocellulosic residues exhibited the highest shrinkage value. The greatest degree of water absorption was observed in the MBCs obtained from rice straw, followed by those obtained from corn husk and sawdust. Additionally, the thermal degradation ability of the MBCs was observed to be within a range of 200 to 325 °C, which was in accordance with the thermal degradation ability of each type of lignocellulosic residue. The greatest degrees of compressive, flexural, impact, and tensile strength were observed in the MBCs of G. williamsianum and L. sajor-caju. The results indicate that the MBCs made from corn husk, combined with each fungal species, exhibited the highest values of flexural, impact, and tensile strength. Subsequently, an analysis of the chemical properties indicated that the pH value, nitrogen content, and organic matter content of the obtained MBCs were within the following ranges: 4.67−6.12, 1.05−1.37%, and 70.40−86.28%, respectively. The highest degree of electrical conductivity was observed in MBCs obtained from rice straw. Most of the physical and mechanical properties of the obtained MBCs were similar to those of polyimide and polystyrene foam. Therefore, these composites could be used to further develop relevant strategies that may allow manufacturers to effectively replace polyimide and polystyrene foams in the future.
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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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Aiduang W, Chanthaluck A, Kumla J, Jatuwong K, Srinuanpan S, Waroonkun T, Oranratmanee R, Lumyong S, Suwannarach N. Amazing Fungi for Eco-Friendly Composite Materials: A Comprehensive Review. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:842. [PMID: 36012830 PMCID: PMC9460913 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The continually expanding use of plastic throughout our world, along with the considerable increase in agricultural productivity, has resulted in a worrying increase in global waste and related environmental problems. The reuse and replacement of plastic with biomaterials, as well as the recycling of agricultural waste, are key components of a strategy to reduce plastic waste. Agricultural waste is characterized as lignocellulosic materials that mainly consist of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Saprobe fungi are able to convert agricultural waste into nutrients for their own growth and to facilitate the creation of mycelium-based composites (MBC) through bio-fabrication processes. Remarkably, different fungal species, substrates, and pressing and drying methods have resulted in varying chemical, mechanical, physical, and biological properties of the resulting composites that ultimately vary the functional aspects of the finished MBC. Over the last two decades, several innovative designs have produced a variety of MBC that can be applied across a range of industrial uses including in packaging and in the manufacturing of household items, furniture, and building materials that can replace foams, plastics, and wood products. Materials developed from MBC can be considered highly functional materials that offer renewable and biodegradable benefits as promising alternatives. Therefore, a better understanding of the beneficial properties of MBC is crucial for their potential applications in a variety of fields. Here, we have conducted a brief review of the current findings of relevant studies through an overview of recently published literature on MBC production and the physical, mechanical, chemical, and biological properties of these composites for use in innovative architecture, construction, and product designs. The advantages and disadvantages of various applications of mycelium-based materials (MBM) in various fields have been summarized. Finally, patent trends involving the use of MBM as a new and sustainable biomaterial have also been reviewed. The resulting knowledge can be used by researchers to develop and apply MBC in the form of eco-friendly materials in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Worawoot Aiduang
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Athip Chanthaluck
- Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Jaturong Kumla
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Kritsana Jatuwong
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Sirasit Srinuanpan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Tanut Waroonkun
- Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | | | - Saisamorn Lumyong
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Academy of Science, The Royal Society of Thailand, Bangkok 10300, Thailand
| | - Nakarin Suwannarach
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Research Center of Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
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Meyer V. Connecting materials sciences with fungal biology: a sea of possibilities. Fungal Biol Biotechnol 2022; 9:5. [PMID: 35232493 PMCID: PMC8889637 DOI: 10.1186/s40694-022-00137-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The Special Issue "Connecting materials science with fungal biology" celebrates recent breakthroughs in the fabrication of fungal-based materials, all of which have been made possible by the interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary collaboration of fungal biologists and biotechnologists with artists, designers, materials scientists, and architects. It features conceptual considerations and latest developments of these joint research efforts and the paradigm shift that is involved. The aim of this collection of twelve papers is to highlight the infinite possibilities for the development of innovative fungal-based materials which can be realized through integrating the knowledge and methods from different disciplines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Meyer
- Chair of Applied and Molecular Microbiology, Technische Universität Berlin, Straße des 17. Juni 135, 10623, Berlin, Germany.
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