Mycelium composites are biobased materials grown by combining fungal mycelium—the root-like structure of fungi—with agricultural by-products such as cellulose-rich plant waste or textile residues. The mycelium acts as a natural binder, forming a lightweight and cohesive foam-like structure without the need for synthetic resins or petrochemical additives. Through controlled growth and a passive manufacturing process, the material can be shaped using moulds to create customised products for a wide range of industries.

Key Properties

• Chemical-free & non-toxic: Grown without synthetic binders, formaldehyde, or petroleum-based components, contributing to healthy indoor air quality.
• Biodegradable & compostable: Fully home- and marine-compostable at end of life, leaving no microplastics or harmful residues.
• Carbon-negative raw materials: Produced from agricultural waste, lowering environmental impact and contributing to circular material flows.
• Low-energy, passive production: Requires up to 60% less energy than producing EPS foams of equivalent size.
• Fire resistance: Naturally low flammability, suitable for applications where basic fire performance is needed.
• Lightweight: Foam-like, porous structure results in low material density.
• Thermal insulation: Low thermal conductivity makes the material suitable for interior insulation purposes.
• Acoustic performance: The porous structure provides effective sound absorption, enabling use in acoustic panels.
• Impact resistance: Offers sufficient mechanical protection for packaging and certain structural uses.

Environmental Performance

The material replaces conventional, carbon-intensive materials such as EPS, polyurethane foam, glass wool and petrochemical acoustic panels. Production involves minimal external energy input and upcycles waste streams into value-added products. The absence of toxic chemicals and the material’s natural compostability contribute to reduced pollution and long-term environmental benefits.

Applications

• Protective packaging: Custom-moulded shapes for shipping fragile goods, providing mechanical protection with reduced carbon impact.
• Acoustic panels: Petrochemical-free sound-absorbing elements for interior architecture.
• Insulation and interior components: Lightweight thermal and acoustic insulation for building interiors.
• Design and prototyping: Custom forms for art, design, and experimental material applications.

Production & Technology

Mycelium growth binds the substrate into a solid material through a passive biological process. Once the desired density and shape are achieved, the material is stabilised through drying. The technology is compatible with mould-based production, enabling scalability and design flexibility. Research and development efforts focus on improving mechanical performance, expanding application fields, and advancing sustainable material science.