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A Comprehensive Review on Studying and Developing Guidelines to Standardize the Inspection of Properties and Production Methods for Mycelium-Bound Composites in Bio-Based Building Material Applications

Summary

This review examines mycelium-based composites, which are innovative building materials made from fungal networks grown on agricultural waste. These eco-friendly materials are biodegradable and use less energy to produce than traditional construction materials. The authors analyze current testing methods and propose standardized production guidelines to ensure consistent quality, helping make these sustainable materials more reliable for widespread use in buildings and construction.

Background

Mycelium-bound composites (MBCs) represent an emerging sustainable material derived from fungal mycelium combined with lignocellulosic substrates. MBCs offer eco-friendly alternatives to traditional synthetic materials with benefits including biodegradability, low energy consumption, cost-effectiveness, and sourcing from agricultural waste. However, the lack of standardized inspection protocols and production methods poses significant challenges to their widespread adoption and commercialization.

Objective

This review aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the current research landscape on MBCs, highlighting key factors influencing their properties and performance. The study explores existing inspection techniques and production practices, identifies gaps, and proposes strategies for standardization of both inspection and production protocols.

Results

The review identified over 250 publications on MBCs with 30% in engineering and materials science. Key testing standards from ASTM, ISO, JIS, EN, DIN, and TIS are used to evaluate density, water absorption, compression strength, tensile strength, insulation, and other properties. Production involves critical steps including substrate preparation, fungal species selection, sterilization, inoculation, incubation, molding, drying, and post-processing requiring good manufacturing practices (GMPs).

Conclusion

Establishing robust inspection protocols and production standards is essential for enhancing MBC reliability and adoption. Implementation of GMP-derived guidelines, advanced characterization techniques (SEM, CT scanning, surface profilometry), and interdisciplinary collaboration can advance the field and promote environmental sustainability in construction materials.
  • Published in:Biomimetics (Basel),
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: PMID: 39329571
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