Development of a Mycelium-Based Thermal Insulation Material

The study explores the potential of mycelium-based materials as sustainable thermal insulation for construction. Mycelium, the vegetative part of fungi, grows on organic substrates such as agricultural byproducts, forming a lightweight, biodegradable composite with insulating properties. The experim...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Luksta Ilze, Vamža Ilze, Blumberga Dagnija
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Sciendo 2025-01-01
Series:Environmental and Climate Technologies
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Online Access:https://doi.org/10.2478/rtuect-2025-0014
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Summary:The study explores the potential of mycelium-based materials as sustainable thermal insulation for construction. Mycelium, the vegetative part of fungi, grows on organic substrates such as agricultural byproducts, forming a lightweight, biodegradable composite with insulating properties. The experiments focus on optimizing the material’s thermal conductivity and mechanical strength . Mycelium insulation demonstrates thermal conductivity values comparable to traditional materials like mineral wool and expanded polystyrene (EPS), with a range of 0.039 to 0.05 W/m·K. The production process employs renewable resources, is non-toxic, and aligns with circular economy principles by repurposing agricultural waste. Challenges remain in enhancing water resistance and mechanical adaptability. The findings underline mycelium’s potential as an eco-friendly alternative in modern sustainable construction, emphasizing its role in reducing carbon footprints and promoting resource efficiency.
ISSN:2255-8837