Assessing the Conformity of Mycelium Biocomposites for Ecological Insulation Solutions

In this study, different combinations of mycelium biocomposites (MBs) were developed using primary substrates sourced from the local agricultural, wood processing, and paper industries. The physicomechanical properties, thermal conductivity, and fire behavior were evaluated. The highest bending strength was achieved in composites containing waste fibers and birch sanding dust, with a strength competitive with that of synthetic polymers like EPS and XPS, as well as some commercial building materials. The lowest thermal conductivity was observed in hemp-based MB, with a lambda coefficient of 40 m·W·m^-1·K^-1, making these composites competitive with non-mycelium insulation materials, including synthetic polymers such as EPS and XPS. Additionally, MB exhibited superior fire resistance compared to various synthetic foams and composite materials. They showed lower peak heat release rates (134-243 k·W·m^-2) and total smoke release (7-281 m²·m^-2) than synthetic polymers, and lower total heat release (6-62 k·W·m^-2) compared to certain wood composites. Overall, the mechanical and thermal properties, along with the fire performance of MB, support their potential as a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based and traditional composite materials in the building industry.