Skip to main content
ARS Home » Plains Area » Lubbock, Texas » Cropping Systems Research Laboratory » Cotton Production and Processing Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #309336

Title: Evaluation of mycelium reinforced agricultural fiber biocomposites for diverse applications

Author
item Holt, Gregory
item ZIEGLER, ALEXANDER - University Of Arkansas
item Pelletier, Mathew
item Wanjura, John
item BAJWA, SREEKALA - North Dakota State University
item MCINTYRE, GAVIN - Ecovative Design, Llc

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/2/2014
Publication Date: 5/13/2014
Citation: Holt, G.A., Ziegler, A., Pelletier, M.G., Wanjura, J.D., Bajwa, S., Mcintyre, G. 2014. Evaluation of mycelium reinforced agricultural fiber biocomposites for diverse applications. Meeting Abstract. Printed Booklet..

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: There is a genuine need for new biodegradable alternatives to the inert plastics and expanded foams that are common in both manufacturing processes and device componentry. The material emphasized in this report is a bio-composite patented by Ecovative Design, LLC. The bio-composite utilizes fungus mycelium to integrate a plant fiber matrix to create a product for a variety of uses. The material is currently marketed as a degradable alternative to polystyrene packaging materials. The report details the results from several studies evaluating the material for applications, both potential and actual, such as packaging, biomedical, acoustic absorbers, and one-use-cushions for tsunami buoy deployment. The report shows results from bio-composites samples manufactured using different fiber-fungal strain combinations. Physico-mechanical properties, acoustic performance, and fiber blend selection optimization of the composite materials are characterized. The results indicate a 100% biodegradable material that has a soft outer surface with high elasticity, light weight, buoyant, and flame and water resistant depending on mycelium growth.