Binder Jetting 3D Printing of Biomass–Fungi Composite Materials: A Preliminary Experimental Study

Author: mycolabadmin
7/4/2025
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Summary

Scientists have developed a new 3D printing method to create environmentally-friendly materials made from agricultural waste and fungi. Instead of using traditional plastic materials that take years to decompose, these biomass-fungi composites break down naturally. The new binder jetting printing process is faster and more precise than previous methods, making it more practical for manufacturing products like packaging, furniture, and building materials.

Background

Biomass–fungi composite materials are biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-derived plastics, with potential applications in packaging, furniture, and construction industries. These materials use agricultural residues as substrate with fungal hyphae binding the biomass particles together. Previous studies have primarily used extrusion-based 3D printing methods, which have limitations in resolution and production throughput.

Objective

This study demonstrates the feasibility of binder jetting 3D printing for biomass–fungi composite materials for the first time. The research investigates the ability to print T-shaped samples using hemp hurd powders of different particle sizes and to achieve successful fungal growth and binding within the printed structures.

Results

Successful binder jetting printing of biomass–fungi samples was demonstrated with both particle sizes. SEM micrographs revealed significant presence of fungal hyphae inside the printed samples, providing evidence of biomass particle binding. Fungal growth was observed on both the exterior and interior surfaces of the final samples.

Conclusion

This study successfully demonstrates the feasibility of binder jetting 3D printing for biomass–fungi composite materials, offering advantages over extrusion-based methods including better dimensional accuracy, higher resolution, and faster production rates. Future research should investigate effects of different biomass types, particle sizes, binder compositions, and process parameters on mechanical properties and dimensional accuracy.

Published in:Biomimetics (Basel),
Study Type:Preliminary Experimental Study,
Source: 10.3390/biomimetics10070441, PMID: 40710254