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Lu C, Huang Y, Cui J, Wu J, Jiang C, Gu X, Cao Y, Yin S. Toward Practical Applications of Engineered Living Materials with Advanced Fabrication Techniques. ACS Synth Biol 2024; 13:2295-2312. [PMID: 39002162 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.4c00259] [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] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Engineered Living Materials (ELMs) are materials composed of or incorporating living cells as essential functional units. These materials can be created using bottom-up approaches, where engineered cells spontaneously form well-defined aggregates. Alternatively, top-down methods employ advanced materials science techniques to integrate cells with various kinds of materials, creating hybrids where cells and materials are intricately combined. ELMs blend synthetic biology with materials science, allowing for dynamic responses to environmental stimuli such as stress, pH, humidity, temperature, and light. These materials exhibit unique "living" properties, including self-healing, self-replication, and environmental adaptability, making them highly suitable for a wide range of applications in medicine, environmental conservation, and manufacturing. Their inherent biocompatibility and ability to undergo genetic modifications allow for customized functionalities and prolonged sustainability. This review highlights the transformative impact of ELMs over recent decades, particularly in healthcare and environmental protection. We discuss current preparation methods, including the use of endogenous and exogenous scaffolds, living assembly, 3D bioprinting, and electrospinning. Emphasis is placed on ongoing research and technological advancements necessary to enhance the safety, functionality, and practical applicability of ELMs in real-world contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenjing Lu
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Yaying Huang
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Jian Cui
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Junhua Wu
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan 250021, China
- Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Chunping Jiang
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan 250021, China
- Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Xiaosong Gu
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Yi Cao
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan 250021, China
- Institute for Brain Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- Chemistry and Biomedicine innovation center, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- Chemistry and Biomedicine innovation center, MOE Key Laboratory of High Performance Polymer Materials and Technology, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Sheng Yin
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructure, Department of Physics, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, Jinan 250021, China
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Derme T, Schwarze FWMR, Dillenburger B. Understanding the Role of Controlled Environments for Producing Mycelium-bound Composites: Advancing Circular Practices for Integrating Biotechnology into the Construction Industry. GLOBAL CHALLENGES (HOBOKEN, NJ) 2024; 8:2300197. [PMID: 39006056 PMCID: PMC11237183 DOI: 10.1002/gch2.202300197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
The architecture, engineering, and construction industry is undergoing a significant shift, steering buildings away from resource-intensive processes toward becoming instruments for climate mitigation. In this transformative landscape, integrating circular bio-based alternatives and reducing emissions through biotechnological and enzymatic processes have significant potential. Specifically, mycelium-bound composites have emerged as renewable alternatives for new materials and added-value wood products. Despite their numerous advantages, integrating these materials into current engineering practices presents challenges deriving from the complex nature of the material´s production process and the transfer from the laboratory to the industrial scale. In this regard, the design and engineering of novel controlled environments are fundamental in maintaining optimal growth conditions during material production. This, in turn, influences the overall material performance and potential use in construction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziano Derme
- ETH ZurichITA‐Institut für Technologie in der ArchitekturStefano‐Franscini Platz 1ZurichCH‐8093Switzerland
| | | | - Benjamin Dillenburger
- ETH ZurichITA‐Institut für Technologie in der ArchitekturStefano‐Franscini Platz 1ZurichCH‐8093Switzerland
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Lewandowska A, Bonenberg A, Sydor M. Mycelium-Based Composites: Surveying Their Acceptance by Professional Architects. Biomimetics (Basel) 2024; 9:333. [PMID: 38921213 PMCID: PMC11201567 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics9060333] [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: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Mycelium-based composites (MBCs) are biomaterials with scientifically proven potential to improve sustainability in construction. Although mycelium-based products are not entirely new, their use in engineering presents challenges due to the inherent properties of this fungal material. This study investigated professional architects' and interior designers' perceptions of MBCs, focusing on familiarity, aesthetic appeal, and willingness to use. The first phase of the survey explored respondents' views on material-related ecological design principles. In the second phase, respondents evaluated ten small architectural objects crafted from MBCs, focusing on form, detail, and visual appeal. The last phase of the survey measured their interest in using mycelium in their design work. The results revealed that MBCs were relatively unknown among the surveyed professionals; only every second respondent knew this material. Despite this, 90% found MBCs visually appealing after seeing the examples. Interestingly, the natural, unprocessed appearance of the material was assessed as less aesthetically pleasing, with thermal treatment improving its perceived value. Architects were more receptive to using MBCs in their professional projects for customers than for personal use. This observation points to a 'double standard': professional architects are more open to using MBCs in projects not intended for their own use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lewandowska
- Institute of Interior Design and Industrial Design, Faculty of Architecture, Poznan University of Technology, 61-131 Poznań, Poland; (A.L.); (A.B.)
| | - Agata Bonenberg
- Institute of Interior Design and Industrial Design, Faculty of Architecture, Poznan University of Technology, 61-131 Poznań, Poland; (A.L.); (A.B.)
| | - 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
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Akromah S, Chandarana N, Rowlandson JL, Eichhorn SJ. Potential environmental impact of mycelium composites on African communities. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11867. [PMID: 38789584 PMCID: PMC11126690 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62561-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The ecological and economic benefits of mycelium composites offer a promising opportunity for supporting sustainable development in Africa. This study focuses on assessing the environmental impact of mycelium composites for building and construction (MCBs) by conducting a life cycle assessment (LCA) in the context of Africa. It is demonstrated that the potential environmental impact of MCBs is substantially influenced by the use and source of electrical power for autoclaves, incubators, and ovens, making the culturing and post-processing phases the major environmental hotspots. The impact of MCB production is also relative to the energy mix of specific countries, being higher in countries that rely on fossil fuel energy (e.g., South Africa) and lower in those that rely more on renewable sources (e.g., Democratic Republic of the Congo, DRC). Furthermore, the impact of MCB production is found to be sensitive to travel distance, suggesting that situating production facilities closer to agricultural, agro-industrial, and/or forestry waste sources could be more beneficial than interregional sourcing, for example. It is also demonstrated that MCBs have the potential to be a more ecologically sustainable alternative to some conventional construction materials (e.g., concrete) over an entire life cycle. Based on the insights obtained from this LCA, some recommendations have been proposed to address potential environmental repercussions pre-emptively and proactively: this is particularly important for nations, mainly in the Global South, that exhibit low resilience to climate change due to limited economic resources. Furthermore, with the rapid expansion of mycelium composite technology, there is a need to increase awareness about its potential environmental impact and, ultimately, to mitigate its potential contribution to pressing environmental concerns (e.g., global warming and climate change). Consequently, this study also adds to the existing body of literature on LCA studies, delineating key factors for consideration in future LCA studies and providing guidance for the sustainable establishment and expansion of this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Akromah
- Bristol Composites Institute, School of Civil, Aerospace, and Design Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, BS8 1TR, UK.
| | - Neha Chandarana
- Bristol Composites Institute, School of Civil, Aerospace, and Design Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, BS8 1TR, UK.
| | - Jemma L Rowlandson
- Bristol Composites Institute, School of Civil, Aerospace, and Design Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, BS8 1TR, UK.
| | - Stephen J Eichhorn
- Bristol Composites Institute, School of Civil, Aerospace, and Design Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol, BS8 1TR, UK.
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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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Abdallah YK, Estévez AT. Biowelding 3D-Printed Biodigital Brick of Seashell-Based Biocomposite by Pleurotus ostreatus Mycelium. Biomimetics (Basel) 2023; 8:504. [PMID: 37887635 PMCID: PMC10604342 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics8060504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycelium biocomposites are eco-friendly, cheap, easy to produce, and have competitive mechanical properties. However, their integration in the built environment as durable and long-lasting materials is not solved yet. Similarly, biocomposites from recycled food waste such as seashells have been gaining increasing interest recently, thanks to their sustainable impact and richness in calcium carbonate and chitin. The current study tests the mycelium binding effect to bioweld a seashell biocomposite 3D-printed brick. The novelty of this study is the combination of mycelium and a non-agro-based substrate, which is seashells. As well as testing the binding capacity of mycelium in welding the lattice curvilinear form of the V3 linear Brick model (V3-LBM). Thus, the V3-LBM is 3D printed in three separate profiles, each composed of five layers of 1 mm/layer thickness, using seashell biocomposite by paste extrusion and testing it for biowelding with Pleurotus ostreatus mycelium to offer a sustainable, ecofriendly, biomineralized brick. The biowelding process investigated the penetration and binding capacity of the mycelium between every two 3D-printed profiles. A cellulose-based culture medium was used to catalyse the mycelium growth. The mycelium biowelding capacity was investigated by SEM microscopy and EDX chemical analysis of three samples from the side corner (S), middle (M), and lateral (L) zones of the biowelded brick. The results revealed that the best biowelding effect was recorded at the corner and lateral zones of the brick. The SEM images exhibited the penetration and the bridging effect achieved by the dense mycelium. The EDX revealed the high concentrations of carbon, oxygen, and calcium at all the analyzed points on the SEM images from all three samples. An inverted relationship between carbon and oxygen as well as sodium and potassium concentrations were also detected, implying the active metabolic interaction between the fungal hyphae and the seashell-based biocomposite. Finally, the results of the SEM-EDX analysis were applied to design favorable tessellation and staking methods for the V3-LBM from the seashell-mycelium composite to deliver enhanced biowelding effect along the Z axis and the XY axis with <1 mm tessellation and staking tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yomna K. Abdallah
- iBAG-UIC Barcelona, Institute for Biodigital Architecture & Genetics, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, 08017 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto T. Estévez
- iBAG-UIC Barcelona, Institute for Biodigital Architecture & Genetics, Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, 08017 Barcelona, Spain
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Wang Q, Hu Z, Li Z, Liu T, Bian G. Exploring the Application and Prospects of Synthetic Biology in Engineered Living Materials. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023:e2305828. [PMID: 37677048 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202305828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
At the intersection of synthetic biology and materials science, engineered living materials (ELMs) exhibit unprecedented potential. Possessing unique "living" attributes, ELMs represent a significant paradigm shift in material design, showcasing self-organization, self-repair, adaptability, and evolvability, surpassing conventional synthetic materials. This review focuses on reviewing the applications of ELMs derived from bacteria, fungi, and plants in environmental remediation, eco-friendly architecture, and sustainable energy. The review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research progress and emerging design strategies for ELMs in various application fields from the perspectives of synthetic biology and materials science. In addition, the review provides valuable references for the design of novel ELMs, extending the potential applications of future ELMs. The investigation into the synergistic application possibilities amongst different species of ELMs offers beneficial reference information for researchers and practitioners in this field. Finally, future trends and development challenges of synthetic biology for ELMs in the coming years are discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiwen Wang
- Department of Urology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
- Center of Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Zhehui Hu
- Center of Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- National Key Laboratory for Germplasm Innovation & Utilization of Horticultural Crops, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Zhixuan Li
- Center of Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Tiangang Liu
- Department of Urology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Guangkai Bian
- Center of Materials Synthetic Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
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Bonenberg A, Sydor M, Cofta G, Doczekalska B, Grygorowicz-Kosakowska K. Mycelium-Based Composite Materials: Study of Acceptance. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:ma16062164. [PMID: 36984044 PMCID: PMC10051586 DOI: 10.3390/ma16062164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Mycelium-based composites (MBCs) are alternative biopolymers for designing sustainable furniture and other interior elements. These innovative biocomposites have many ecological advantages but present a new challenge in aesthetics and human product acceptance. Grown products, made using living mycelium and lignocellulosic substrates, are porous, have irregular surfaces and have irregular coloring. The natural origin of these types of materials and the fear of fungus can be a challenge. This research investigated the level of human acceptance of the new material. Respondents were students of architecture who can be considered as people involved in interior design and competent in the design field. Research has been performed on the authors' prototype products made from MBCs. Three complementary consumer tests were performed. The obtained results measured the human reactions and demonstrated to which extents products made of MBCs were "likeable" and their nonobvious aesthetics were acceptable to the public. The results showed that MBC materials generally had a positive or not-negative assessment. The responses after the pairwise comparison of the MBC with wall cladding samples pointed out the advantage of ceramic reference material above the MBC based on an overall assessment. The respondents also believed that the chamotte clay cladding would be easier to fit into the aesthetics of a modern interior and would in better accordance with its style. Although the MBC was less visually appealing, the respondents nevertheless found it more interesting, original, and environmentally friendly. The experiments suggested that the respondents had double standards regarding MBCs. MBCs were generally accepted as ecological, but not in their own homes. All of these results support current and future applications of MBCs for manufacturing items where enhanced aesthetics are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Bonenberg
- Institute of Interior Design and Industrial Design, Faculty of Architecture, Poznan University of Technology, 61-131 Poznań, Poland
| | - 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
| | - 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
| | - Klaudia Grygorowicz-Kosakowska
- Institute of Interior Design and Industrial Design, Faculty of Architecture, Poznan University of Technology, 61-131 Poznań, Poland
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