Variations in the Properties of Engineered Mycelium-Bound Composites (MBCs) under Different Manufacturing Conditions

Abstract

Mycelium-bound composites (MBCs) are innovative materials created by combining lignocellulosic sub-products with fungal mycelium. These composites possess a remarkable ability to transform waste fragments into a continuous material without requiring additional energy input or generating further waste. The production process of MBCs involves utilising different fungal species, substrates, and pressing techniques, resulting in composites with diverse physical, mechanical, and functional properties. A comprehensive evaluation of MBCs’ properties is crucial to explore their potential applications in the construction sector and ensure their suitability for specific purposes. This study provides a critical evaluation of the physical and mechanical properties of engineered mycelium-bound composites under various manufacturing conditions. Additionally, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (FCE) methodologies were applied to investigation the optimum conditions for mycelium composites in the construction industry. The outcomes of FCE show the most promising fungal species, offering an optimal balance between material performance and production efficiency. Furthermore, the future development of MBCs manufacturing techniques was reviewed, providing a valuable reference for future research endeavours and showcasing the potential of MBCs applications within the field of civil engineering.