Innovative Fungus-derived Wall Insulation Boards Capable of Absorbing CO2 and Preventing Mold Growth Created
Scientists at Hof University of Applied Sciences in Germany have made a breakthrough in sustainable building materials with the development of a mushroom-based insulation material. This innovative product, known as Mycobuild, is set to change the way we insulate our homes.
Mycobuild is made from fungal networks grown on a substrate of locally available plant residues, such as dry straw. The oyster mushroom has proven to be a robust candidate for the project due to its ability to grow at room temperature without additional heating or cooling measures. The fungal network binds the components together into a solid composite, which is then dried and heated to inactivate the fungus and stabilize the structure.
One of the key advantages of Mycobuild is its eco-friendliness. It is compostable and stores CO2, making it a more sustainable alternative to conventional home insulating materials. Moreover, it requires less energy to produce, further reducing its carbon footprint.
However, consumer concerns about a home insulation material based on fungi have arisen, with fears that it could lead to mold problems in homes. To address this, the team is applying a mineral top layer to the mycelium-based insulation boards to eliminate moisture penetration and reduce the risk of mold. The mineral top layer was developed by building materials firm Johann Bergmann GmbH & Co. KG.
The scientists are working on optimizing the manufacturing process to achieve complete waterproofing. They are also focusing on scaling production and meeting industrial building standards, backed by Germany's DATIpilot program.
If successful, the project could not only cut emissions and waste but also reshape how we insulate our homes for good. The company working on industrial production of mushroom-based wall insulation materials and aiming to bring them to market by 2026 is not explicitly named in the available search results.
The researchers are rigorously testing the coating in multiple stages to ensure the material retains its properties. They let the fungal network grow through the material in the desired form within a few days.
With its flexibility, industrially scalable nature, and potential to revolutionize the home insulation industry, Mycobuild is a promising development in sustainable building materials. The team behind this innovative product continues to work tirelessly to bring it to market, offering a greener and more sustainable solution for home insulation.
Read also:
- Potential Consequences of Dismantling FEMA Vary Across States
- Railway line in Bavaria threatened by unstable slope - extensive construction site at risk
- Wind Farm Controversy on the Boundary of Laois and Kilkenny
- Puerto Rico's Climate Lawfare Campaign experiences another setback with the dismissal of its deals.