Development and Characterization of Mycelium-Based Composite Using Agro-Industrial Waste and Ganoderma lucidum as...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Sustainable Engineering

Background:

• Mycelium-based composites (MBCs) offer sustainable alternatives using fungal mycelium as a binder for agricultural waste.
• Arboloco pith (Montanoa quadrangularis) and Kikuyu grass (Cenchrus clandestinus) are abundant Colombian agro-industrial residues with potential for composite development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize MBCs using Arboloco pith and Kikuyu grass, investigating the effect of formulation and particle size.
• To evaluate the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of these novel MBCs for potential building applications.

Main Methods:

• Three MBC formulations (T, F1, F2) with varying ratios of Arboloco pith and Kikuyu grass were prepared using Ganoderma lucidum.
• Composites were tested for density, water absorption, compressive strength, thermal conductivity, and specific heat capacity.
• The influence of Arboloco particle size (1.0-5.6 mm) on composite properties was assessed.

Main Results:

• Arboloco particle size did not significantly impact MBC properties.
• The formulation with the highest Kikuyu grass content (F2) exhibited superior density, lower water absorption, and better compressive strength.
• Promising thermal conductivity (0.047 W m⁻¹ K⁻¹) and specific heat capacity (1714 J kg⁻¹ K⁻¹) were achieved, comparable to commercial insulation.

Conclusions:

• MBCs utilizing Arboloco and Kikuyu grass demonstrate potential as eco-friendly, non-structural building materials.
• While mechanical and thermal properties are promising, significant shrinkage and water absorption necessitate further optimization for broader commercial use.
• This research supports the circular economy by valorizing regional lignocellulosic waste in developing countries.