New Fungus-based Material is Biodegradable, Edible… and Alive

Researchers have been using fungi to create innovative materials, such as fire-resistant insulation for buildings and even 3D-printed batteries.

A New Approach to Mycelium-Based Materials

Now, one of the scientists involved in this line of research, Dr. Gustav Nyström, along with Ashutosh Sinha from the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA), have discovered a new way to harness the unique properties of mycelium — the thread-like structure of fungi. They’ve developed a material that keeps living cells within its structure, making it biodegradable and capable of helping to break down waste. And yes, it’s edible too.

For this study, the researchers chose a specific strain of Schizophyllum commune, a fungus that commonly grows on dead wood. Rather than using only the mycelium, as researchers typically do, they worked with the entire fungus. This strain produces two macromolecules with unique characteristics: one gathers at the interface between non-mixing liquids, and the other forms nanofibers that are extremely long relative to their sub-nanometer thickness.

With these properties, the researchers developed a stable, edible emulsion with potential applications in preserving food and cosmetics, or enhancing their texture.

But the possibilities go further: the researchers can also use the material to produce biodegradable moisture sensors and fungal-based batteries, which they could safely deploy in natural environments.

The researchers also created a thin, high-strength film that resists tearing even when stretched or subjected to heavy loads. Since mycelium naturally breaks down organic matter, they could use it to produce “living” bags for disposing of organic waste.”Instead of using compostable bags, we could have bags that actually decompose the organic waste themselves,” Sinha explained.

Reducing Waste and Environmental Impact

This innovation could help accelerate the processing of food waste in urban areas and make organic waste disposal safer.In developing countries like India, people commonly use non-biodegradable plastic bags to dispose of trash.These bags stay in the soil for decades, and cows and other animals foraging through garbage often eat them. A more sustainable bag would offer a much-needed alternative.

The researchers published their study in Advanced Materials in February.With any luck, we’ll soon see more practical and commercial applications for this living, versatile material.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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