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ARS Home » Plains Area » Lubbock, Texas » Cropping Systems Research Laboratory » Cotton Production and Processing Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #309385
Title: Bio-composites from mycelium reinforced agricultural substrates

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

Submitted to: American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/4/2014
Publication Date: 5/5/2014
Citation: Holt, G.A., Ziegler, A., Pelletier, M.G., Wanjura, J.D., Bajwa, S., Mcintyre, G. 2014. Bio-composites from mycelium reinforced agricultural substrates. American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. Printed Booklet. Paper #141896978.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: There is a need for biodegradable alternatives to the inert plastics and expanded foams currently used in in manufacturing processes and device components. The material focused on in this report is a bio-composite patented by Ecovative Design, LLC. The bio-composite utilizes the fungus mycelium to integrate various agricultural substrates or substrate blends to create a product for a variety of uses. Currently, this material is marketed as a degradable alternative to polystyrene packaging. This 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 presentation will report on 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.