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Quantification of fungal biomass in mycelium composites made from diverse biogenic side streams

Summary

Researchers developed a new method to measure how much fungal growth occurs in mycelium-based composite materials, which are sustainable alternatives to plastic packaging and insulation. By analyzing fungal DNA, they tested 20 different combinations of three mushroom species with various waste materials from agriculture and food production. The results show that the amount of fungal growth needed for stable, usable materials varies significantly depending on which mushroom species is used and what waste material serves as the base.

Background

Mycelium composite materials made from renewable organic substrates interconnected by fungal mycelium are promising sustainable biomaterials. However, the proportion of fungal biomass in these composites has not been thoroughly characterized, making it difficult to assess its contribution to material properties.

Objective

To develop a method for quantifying fungal biomass in mycelium composites using quantitative PCR and to evaluate 20 different combinations of fungi and biogenic side streams for their stability and mycelial biomass production.

Results

Ganoderma sessile formed stable composites with almost all substrates with a positive correlation between mycelial biomass and stability. Fungal biomass requirements varied greatly by species-substrate combination, ranging from less than 5% (Trametes versicolor on sugar beet pulp) to 20% (Pleurotus pulmonarius on green waste), indicating that both mycelium properties and substrate characteristics influence composite stability.

Conclusion

The qPCR-based quantification method provides reliable assessment of fungal biomass in mycelium composites and demonstrates that fungal species, substrate type, and their combination are crucial for material stability. This method enables better understanding of mycelium’s contribution to composite properties and can optimize production conditions for various applications.
  • Published in:Fungal Biology and Biotechnology,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research Study,
  • Source: 10.1186/s40694-024-00189-y, PMID: 39558429
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