The mycelium, the network of filaments that forms the vegetative part of fungi, is gaining prominence in architecture, interior design, and construction.
This trend, called “mycotecture”, takes advantage of the mycelium’s ability to grow on organic substrates, acting as a natural adhesive that binds different materials together.
The resulting mixture is molded into various shapes, creating bricks, partitions, acoustic panels, furniture, and even decorative elements. Once the desired density and structure are achieved, the material is dehydrated to halt its growth.
In addition to its versatility, mycelium has unique properties: it can self-repair and replicate. Its strength is enhanced by integrating other materials such as metals and melanin, expanding its applications.
An ecological resource for construction
One of the greatest benefits of mycelium is its ability to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) during its growth, contributing to carbon offsetting in construction. In some cases, the material can sequester carbon, reducing emissions generated by conventional materials such as concrete and plastic.
Considering that the built environment is responsible for 40% of CO2 emissions, according to the European Commission, the incorporation of this material would represent a key advantage for the architecture of the future.
Resistance and durability
Mycelium stands out for being lightweight, fire-resistant, thermal and acoustic insulating. Its production is based on organic waste such as straw, sawdust, or agricultural residues, aligning with the principles of the circular economy.
Unlike other biomaterials, mycelium self-assembles, reducing manufacturing waste. Its ability to grow in molds with architectural shapes allows for more efficient and sustainable production.
Applications in interior design and construction
Researcher Jane Scott, leader of the Living Textiles group at the University of Newcastle, highlights that mycelium grows rapidly and forms extremely strong bonds. Her team has developed BioKnit, a project of mycelium textile compounds to redefine interiors.
Among their advancements, they managed to create Mycocrete, a paste that is injected into textile tubes without losing shape. This material facilitates the construction of lightweight and sustainable structures, reaching up to 3 meters in height with successful tests in tensile, compressive, and flexural strength.
Scott explains that by incorporating 3D knitted fabrics, the mechanical performance of mycelium significantly improves, increasing its strength.
Challenges and limitations of fungi in construction
Mycelium has limited strength, so its structural use still requires combinations with other materials. According to Muñoz, natural or hybrid reinforcements could allow, in the future, more robust solutions.
Currently, mycelium does not have the ability to sustain multi-story structures, as its compressive strength is approximately 0.2-1 MPa, compared to 30 MPa of concrete.
The importance of species selection
Not all fungi grow with filaments suitable for the production of construction materials. Shea explains that species selection is key to obtaining efficient mycelium.
Some varieties thrive better with certain organic substrates: while some grow better with straw, others develop optimally in sawdust or corn leaves.
For Mycocrete, researchers have used Ganoderma lucidum and have experimented with Trametes versicolor, seeking fast-growing species to reduce contamination in non-sterile cultures.
Genetic modification also offers new opportunities. According to Muñoz, synthetic biology allows adjusting the growth, density, fire resistance, and moisture of fungi, expanding their potential in construction.
Exploring mycelium in space
Mycelium could be key in building habitats beyond Earth, reducing costs by manufacturing structures at the destination instead of transporting them from Earth.
The Mycotecture Off Planet project by NASA, led by Lynn Rothschild, proposes to generate structures from fungi on the Moon and Mars. The idea is for explorers to deploy an initial structure, add water, and allow the fungi to grow into a functional habitat.
In its third phase, the Myco-NIAC team is already testing fungal materials on the International Space Station, seeking to validate their resistance in extreme environments.
