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Impact of Fomes fomentarius growth on the mechanical properties of material extrusion additively manufactured PLA and PLA/Hemp biopolymers

Summary

This research explores how mushroom mycelium can be integrated with 3D-printed plastic materials to create sustainable biocomposites. Scientists tested whether Fomes fomentarius fungus growing on printed PLA and hemp-reinforced plastic specimens affected their strength and stiffness. Results showed that while pure PLA remained largely unaffected by mycelium growth, hemp-reinforced materials experienced some weakening, with effects depending on the duration of fungal colonization and the internal structure of the printed materials. These findings suggest potential applications in developing eco-friendly building materials and insulation products that combine the benefits of living organisms with manufactured polymers.

Background

Fungal-based biomaterials are emerging as sustainable alternatives to synthetic polymers. However, the interaction between mycelium and 3D-printed biopolymers remains underexplored, particularly regarding mechanical performance. This study investigates how Fomes fomentarius mycelium colonization affects the tensile behavior of additively manufactured PLA and PLA/Hemp specimens.

Objective

To examine the effects of Fomes fomentarius mycelium colonization on the mechanical properties of Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing (MEX AM) produced PLA and PLA_Hemp specimens. The study specifically investigates how different 3D-print patterns and colonization duration influence Young’s Modulus and Ultimate Tensile Strength.

Results

Mycelial colonization had minor impact on pure PLA mechanical properties, with slight improvements in grid-pattern specimens. PLA_Hemp specimens showed more pronounced, time-dependent degradation with mycelium colonization. Environmental factors like humidity and incubation affected performance, while autoclaving pretreatment significantly weakened materials compared to ethanol sterilization.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates feasibility of hybrid biocomposites integrating mycelium with 3D-printed biopolymers. Results indicate that material composition and infill pattern critically influence mycelial integration and mechanical outcomes. These findings provide insights for designing sustainable biohybrid composites that balance structural reliability with functional fungal integration.
  • Published in:Fungal Biology and Biotechnology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.1186/s40694-025-00205-9
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