What is Mycelium?

Mycelium, one of nature’s many marvels, hidden beneath our feet in a vast network of thread-like structures, is the linchpin of thriving ecosystems both ecologically and functionally. The vegetative part of fungi, this living material consists of a fine network of branching filaments called hyphae and is unseen but crucial to the lifecycle of visible parts of the fungi, or mushrooms, that we see.

Manufacturing with Mycelium

Its innate versatility means Mycelium is already being used as insulation and packaging for its foam-like structure, as an alternative to traditional plastics, reducing waste and environmental impact. The fungus also has huge potential to be the base of strong and lightweight construction materials, offering eco-friendly benefits to reduce the built environment’s impact on our planet.

Having already made an appearance in the fashion world in the form of faux, plant-based leather (Mylo by Bolt Threads), Mycelium breaking into other industries in the form of chairs, lighting (B-wise Pendant Lamp by Myceen) and even architecture. Its unique qualities: light weight, durable, fire-resistant, water resistant, and some acoustic properties, make it highly desirable material to continue to push the boundaries of what an accepted product is, whilst being highly sustainable due to the low energy and minimal resources needed for it grow.

Moulding Mycelium – Unlocking Its Functionality

Mixed with agricultural waste, mycelium can be moulded into any shape over a few weeks, whilst needing only minimal energy input to grow. Read on to learn how this process works.

First the agricultural waste is mixed with mycelium. The mixture is set in moulds and let to grow under controlled temperature and humidity. The fungus then feeds on the agricultural waste and expands to fill out the mould, with nothing artificial needed to strengthen the shape, as the mycelium binds naturally. Once the mould has filled the material is removed and dried completely, so it doesn’t expand any further. Once the mycelium shape has been dried effectively and is dead, it is ready to use!