Materials from fungal mycelium

Fungal mycelium consists of an underground, interwoven network of fibers. These so-called hyphae give rise to fruiting bodies known as mushrooms. The fiber network is comparable to the root system of plants and trees. For millions of years, it has adapted to grow between and through plant cells (including in dead wood) to use them as a nutrient source.

Based on agricultural or forestry residues and fungal mycelium, novel materials are created at Fraunhofer IAP in a natural growth process.   

By carefully selecting the fungi, the substrates used and the targeted control of growth conditions, we produce soft, flexible, rigid, and robust mycelium-based materials in various sizes and shapes.

We can specifically influence texture, color, thickness, and other physical properties during growth. The easy processability after the growth process enables versatile applications.

Mycelium-based materials can be further processed, for example, into leather-like alternatives and flat textiles and fabrics, by combining them with natural fibers. As a result, environmentally friendly and sustainable products are created that can be used as animal-free alternatives. Examples include accessories for clothing, shoes, bags or furniture. Think creative!

Mycelium-based products can be composted after their use phase and returned to the natural cycle as organic decomposition products. They thus form the basis for the growth of new plants, which in turn can be used by fungal mycelium as a source of nutrients. Mycelium-based products thus enable a natural and essential step towards a circular economy.

Especially compared to conventional leather production, the manufacturing process is environmentally-, resource-friendly, energy and performance efficient, and time- and space-saving. Unlike conventional leather production, the cultivation and processing of fungal mycelium do not require toxic chemicals and use little water. Leather is also often produced in countries where low health and environmental standards apply. Compared to the growth time of a cow (about two years), the cultivation of fungal mycelium is also much more time-efficient at 2-3 weeks.