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Gradient porous structures of mycelium: a quantitative structure–mechanical property analysis

Summary

Scientists studied how mushroom root structures (mycelium) naturally develop different properties from bottom to top as they grow. They found that the thicker, older parts near the food source are stiffer and more densely packed with fibers, while the thinner, younger parts are more porous and flexible. This natural gradient could be useful for creating biodegradable materials for medical implants, filters, and other applications where changing properties are beneficial.

Background

Gradient porous structures (GPS) are found in natural tissues and biological matter with transitions in microstructure and mechanical properties along a specific axis. Mycelium, the root structure of fungi, is a fibrous biomaterial that naturally grows with structural variations. This study investigates mycelium as a sustainable biomaterial for generating engineered GPS with controlled properties.

Objective

To explore the potential of mycelium as a biomaterial for generating gradient porous structures by analyzing how structural characteristics change with growth direction. The study establishes correlations between structural features (fiber radii, crosslink density, network density, pore characteristics) and local elastic moduli across the mycelium tissue thickness.

Results

Systematic variations in fiber characteristics and pore properties were observed across growth depths. Crosslink density decreased by 65% from oldest (0.079 μm⁻²) to youngest growth (0.027 μm⁻²). Elastic modulus decreased approximately 52% from oldest growth (55.1 ± 12.9 kPa) to youngest (26.5 ± 13.4 kPa). Direct correlation was found between mechanical modulus and crosslink density.

Conclusion

Mycelium naturally develops gradient porous structures through controlled growth conditions, with clear correlations between structural features and mechanical properties. This sustainable, cost-effective approach enables development of mycelium-based GPS for applications in filtration membranes, bio-scaffolds, and tissue regeneration. Future work will focus on tuning growth conditions to generate gradient structures with desired properties.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.1038/s41598-023-45842-5, PMID: 37935723
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