Wood fungus is an ecological alternative to plastic. Free Technical Library News

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Tree fungus - an ecological alternative to plastic

25.02.2023

Scientists have discovered that the tinder fungus (Fomes fomentarius), which grows on trees, has several surprising properties. Researchers believe it could become a natural biodegradable alternative to certain plastics and other materials in the future.

This wood-eating fungus has historically been used to start fires, but also in clothing and medicine. Now it can have a whole new level of utility as a biodegradable alternative to plastic.

The mycelium, composed of thin filaments known as hyphae, forms root-like networks that spread through soil or rotten material. A team of scientists from research institutions in Finland, the Netherlands and Germany say this network can be divided into three separate layers.

Mycelium is the main component in all layers. However, in each layer, the mycelium exhibits a very distinct microstructure with a unique preferred orientation, aspect ratio, density, and branch length.

The researchers studied the structural and chemical composition of the fruiting body of F. fomentarius using samples collected in Finland. Mechanical strength tests were combined with detailed scans of the fungus to study its characteristics in detail, revealing three layers: a hard, thin outer crust covering a foamy layer underneath, and piles of hollow tubular structures in the core.

The scientists also noted that the parts of the fungus were as strong as plywood, pine or leather, but were also lighter than those materials. This combination is not usually associated with the fleshy part of such a mushroom.

The researchers found that the hollow tubes that make up the bulk of the fruiting bodies of F. fomentarius can withstand stronger forces than the foam layer and not experience major displacement or deformation.

This is not so surprising: this mushroom must be built to withstand the strict changes of the seasons, as well as the branches of trees falling from above. It is this strength that could inspire new synthetic materials.

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