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Cross-linking impacts the physical properties of mycelium leather alternatives by targeting hydroxyl groups of polysaccharides and amino groups of proteins

Summary

Scientists developed a leather-like material made from mushroom mycelium by treating it with chemical cross-linkers similar to those used in traditional leather tanning. The best results came from using glutaraldehyde, which chemically bonded to the mycelium’s proteins and carbohydrates, creating a stronger and more durable material. While the mycelium leather now has comparable strength to conventional leather, it needs to be more flexible. This research offers a more environmentally sustainable alternative to animal leather.

Background

Mycelium-based materials are sustainable alternatives to leather from animal hides, which have environmental concerns. However, mycelium materials have poor mechanical properties compared to conventional leather. Cross-linking (tanning) is used in leather manufacturing to improve strength, elasticity, and stability by creating chemical bonds between polymers.

Objective

To assess the effects of synthetic and vegetable cross-linkers on mechanical properties and stability of Schizophyllum commune mycelium sheets, and to elucidate the binding mechanisms of glutaraldehyde to mycelium components.

Results

Treatment with 0.1% glutaraldehyde provided optimal strength (11.1 MPa) and elasticity (14.6% elongation at break). Glutaraldehyde formed Schiff bases with protein amino groups and acetals with polysaccharide hydroxyl groups. Cross-linking increased enzymatic stability and reduced water absorption but did not increase thermal stability. Density increased with cross-linker concentration.

Conclusion

Synthetic and vegetable cross-linkers can improve mycelium materials to achieve leather-like tensile strength by targeting hydroxyl and amino groups. However, elongation at break remains below the optimal range of >30% for commercial leather, suggesting further optimization of plasticization is needed.
  • Published in:Heliyon,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e36263, PMC11382184, 39253274
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