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Mechanical properties of dense mycelium-bound composites under accelerated tropical weathering conditions

Summary

Researchers developed a sustainable alternative to traditional particleboard using mushroom mycelium (fungal root structure) grown on agricultural waste like sawdust and palm fruit remnants. When exposed to hot, humid tropical conditions for 35 days, the material’s strength decreased significantly, but applying a protective oil coating helped preserve tensile strength. The study shows that with improvements to manufacturing processes, these mushroom-based composites could replace harmful formaldehyde-based particleboards in indoor construction.

Background

Particleboards are widely used in construction and furniture industries but rely on formaldehyde-based adhesives that are harmful to human health and the environment. Mycelium-based composites offer a sustainable alternative by using fungal networks to bind substrate particles, avoiding toxic chemicals while utilizing agricultural waste products.

Objective

To evaluate the mechanical properties of dense mycelium-bound composites (DMCs) made from Ganoderma lucidum mycelium grown on sawdust and empty fruit bunch under accelerated tropical weathering conditions over 35 days, and to assess the effectiveness of protective coatings.

Results

Weathering significantly reduced mechanical properties: flexural stress decreased 59% (uncoated) and 36% (coated); compressive stress decreased 84% (uncoated) and 34% (coated); tensile stress decreased 79.4% (uncoated) and 47.1% (coated). Protective coating was statistically significant only for tensile strength preservation.

Conclusion

Dense mycelium-bound composites show promise as sustainable particleboard alternatives but require improvements in material consistency and manufacturing parameters. Increasing pressing temperature and reducing microstructural defects could enhance weathering resistance, making DMC viable for indoor applications in tropical environments.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.1038/s41598-021-01598-4, PMID: 34764392
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