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Biocomposites Based on Mould Biomass and Waste Fibres for the Production of Agrotextiles: Technology Development, Material Characterization, and Agricultural Application

Summary

Researchers developed a new biodegradable material for agriculture made from mould mycelium and waste plant fibres. This eco-friendly crop cover can be used instead of synthetic plastic sheets that damage soil and pollute it with microplastics. The material breaks down naturally in soil within 10 days and can help seeds germinate better, offering farmers a sustainable alternative for protecting their crops.

Background

The growing interest in sustainability has driven the search for raw materials aligned with circular economy principles. Mycelium-bound biocomposites reinforced with waste-based additives offer a promising material for modern material technologies. However, production of mould mycelium-based biocomposites has not been widely reported in the literature.

Objective

This study explored the potential use of mould biomass and waste fibres for the production of agrotextiles. The research aimed to develop a method for producing biocomposites based on mould mycelium and plant fibrous materials in the form of flat sheets for agricultural applications.

Results

Biocomposites containing 10-20% Cladosporium cladosporioides mycelium with bleached softwood kraft pulp, cotton, and hemp showed the best mechanical properties, low water permeability, and high air permeability. The biocomposite was fully biodegradable in soil after 10 days in field conditions. As a crop cover, it shortened germination time and increased germination percentage in onion but had no effect on parsley seeds.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates the potential of using mould mycelium for the production of biodegradable biomaterial with good properties suitable for agricultural applications. The resulting biocomposite offers an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic agrotextiles for horticulture and crop protection applications.
  • Published in:Materials (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: PMID: 39769684, PMC: PMC11728375, DOI: 10.3390/ma17246084
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