Characterisation of Mycelium-Based Biomaterials Derived from Diverse Mushroom Species for Sustainable Applications

Mushroom mycelium-based biomaterials are eco-friendly, biodegradable, cheap, and sustainable materials. In this study, ten wild mushroom species were collected from tropical forests in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces, and two commercial mushroom species were obtained from a local market in Chiang Rai Province, Thailand. Mushroom specimens were identified based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. All fungal species were determined to use suitable agar media (potato dextrose agar; malt extract agar), liquid media (malt extract broth), and agricultural substrate (rubber sawdust size ≤ 2 mm) for mushroom mycelial growth. Mechanical property evaluation using Ashby's chart indicated that the resulting mushroom mycelium-based biomaterials have the potential to substitute for certain types of synthetic foam. A biodegradability test was conducted through soil burial of samples for 90 days, which demonstrated cumulative weight loss exceeding 60%, thereby confirming biodegradability. Furthermore, a new approach for maintaining mycelial viability was developed and validated, addressing the challenge of maintaining vigorous mycelium. Notably, this study presents the first comprehensive report on the application of Coriolopsis brunneoleuca, Ganoderma tropicum, Hexagonia sp., Microporus xanthopus, Trametes polyzona, and T. sanguinea in mushroom mycelium-based biomaterial production, including material development, characterisation, and prototype fabrication. Based on the material properties and successfully developed prototypes, the mushroom mycelium-based biomaterials produced in this study are potentially suitable for applications in packaging, indoor products, construction, and insulation purposes, as a viable alternative to conventional synthetic materials.