Production of mycelium-based biomaterial using various substrates

Abstract

This experiment was carried out to create a biomaterial with mycelium as its main component and binding part. The main object of this research was mycelium of Pleurotus ostreatus. Various substrates were used for mycelium growing: buckwheat husks, onion husks, garlic husks, coconut husk substrate, coffee grounds, birch sawdust, wheat grains, ground wheat, hemp husks, rock wool, and polystyrene. These different substrates and materials were mixed with the mycelium culture and grown for at least three months, with growth monitored weekly. The blocks of grown biomaterial were dried and tested for properties such as water absorption, moisture content, and biodegradation. The conducted studies showed that mycelium can successfully colonise and grow on different substrates, forming biomaterials with different properties. The choice of substrate influenced the physical characteristics of the obtained biomaterials. Mycelium can be used as a sustainable alternative for the production of various biomaterials. The results of this study add to the knowledge in the field of mycelium-based biomaterials and open the way for further research and development of this promising technology.