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Improving the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Mycelium-Based Green Composites Using Paper Waste

Summary

Researchers created environmentally friendly materials called mycelium-based composites by growing mushroom mycelia on agricultural waste like corn husks mixed with recycled paper waste. When they added 20% paper waste to corn husk composites, the materials became stronger and more durable, making them suitable for packaging and decorative items. This approach cleverly recycles paper waste while creating sustainable alternatives to plastic-based materials.

Background

Mycelium-based green composites (MBCs) have emerged as biodegradable alternatives to traditional materials. However, some physical and mechanical properties of MBCs require enhancement to fully realize their potential for various applications. Paper waste, which constitutes a significant portion of global solid waste and contains 82-95% cellulose, presents an attractive option for improving MBC properties.

Objective

To investigate the effects of incorporating varying amounts of paper waste (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% by weight) on the physical and mechanical properties of mycelium-based green composites produced from corn husk and sawdust substrates colonized by Lentinus sajor-caju mycelia.

Results

Adding 20% paper waste to corn husk increased compression, bending, and impact strength by over 20%. Corn husk with 10% paper waste reduced water absorption compared to control samples. Paper waste addition increased MBC density but also increased shrinkage. Adding paper waste to sawdust did not improve properties and decreased compression and flexural strength. Tensile strength decreased with paper waste addition in both substrates.

Conclusion

Paper waste effectively improves specific physical and mechanical properties of corn husk-based MBCs, particularly at 20% incorporation levels, offering potential for sustainable packaging and decorative applications. However, tensile strength and shrinkage remain challenging properties requiring further improvement. The approach demonstrates efficient utilization of lignocellulosic biomass and promotes circular economy principles.
  • Published in:Polymers (Basel),
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/polym16020262, PMID: 38257061
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