Mycelium is the metabolically active part of fungi. It consists of a network of fine fibres that can spread through organic material. Mycelium is a promising material for 3D printing as it is light, strong and biodegradable. In the context of architecture, 3D printing mycelium offers several advantages. For example, this process can be used to produce complex structures with a high degree of dimensional accuracy. In addition, mycelium is a sustainable material that can reduce the environmental impact of construction.
The focus of our work is on the printing paste, the technical printing process and research into printable geometry. The formulation of the printing paste for 3D printing of mycelium is decisive for the properties of the finished component. The paste usually consists of mycelium, a binder and water.
The mycelium can be obtained from different types of mushrooms. The binder ensures the stability of the print paste and holds the mycelium together. Frequently used binders are folded and guar gum. Ammonium acetate serves as a solvent for the binder and the mycelium.
The 3D printing of mycelium can be carried out using various methods. The most commonly used processes are
- Extrusion printing: In this process, the printing paste is extruded through a nozzle and applied to a substrate.
- Binderjet printing: In this process, the print paste is applied to a substrate and sprayed with a binder. The binder binds the individual mycelium fibres together.
- Injection moulding printing: In this process, the printing paste is injected into a mould.
A variety of structures can be produced with 3D printing from Myzelium. For example, walls, furniture and even entire buildings can be printed.
For 3D printing of complex structures, it is important that the print paste has sufficient viscosity. This ensures that the print paste is not too thin and flows, but is also not too thick and does not come out of the nozzle. Mycelium 3D printing is a promising process for architecture. It offers a number of advantages, such as the ability to produce complex structures with high dimensional accuracy and a sustainable material. In recent years, research into the 3D printing of mycelium has developed considerably. It is expected that 3D printing of mycelium will play an increasingly important role in architecture in the future.
Work produced:
2022: Mai Thi Nguyễn, Myco-Ex Evaluation on Additives for Liquid Deposition Modeling of Mycelium-Based Composites and its application toward architecture