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Thermal Degradation and Fire Properties of Fungal Mycelium and Mycelium-Biomass Composite Materials

Summary

This research explores how mushroom mycelium (fungal threads) can be grown with wheat grains to create fire-resistant composite materials. The study found that these mycelium-based composites are significantly safer than plastic polymers, catching fire less easily and releasing less heat when burned. The mycelium acts like a natural fire shield by forming a protective char layer. These findings suggest mycelium composites could be a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic plastics for packaging and insulation applications.

Background

Mycelium-based composites are emerging sustainable materials with biodegradable properties and potential flame-retardant characteristics. However, very little is known about their thermal degradation and fire properties, which is critical for applications in fire-prone environments such as packaging and building insulation.

Objective

To characterize the thermal degradation and fire properties of fungal mycelium (Trametes versicolor) and mycelium-biomass composites, including decomposition temperatures, residual char, evolved gases, and the effects of growth time on fire reaction properties.

Results

Mycelium exhibits significantly lower combustion propensity than PMMA and PLA with peak heat release rate of 67 W/g versus 446 W/g and 375 W/g respectively. Thermal degradation occurs in three stages with 23 wt% char residue. The presence of mycelium reduces heat release rate of wheat grain composites by 10% through char formation acting as thermal insulation, though growth time beyond 6 days yields no additional improvements.

Conclusion

Mycelium demonstrates superior fire safety characteristics compared to synthetic polymers PMMA and PLA due to higher char yield and release of non-flammable gases. The material shows promise as an economical, sustainable, and fire-safer alternative to synthetic polymer binders, though practical applications require careful consideration of minimum mycelial density thresholds.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Experimental Research,
  • Source: 10.1038/s41598-018-36032-9, PMID: 30514955
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