Mycelium-Based Flame Retardant Treatments for Textiles Using Extracts of Turkey Tail, Reishi, and Shiitake

The rising demand for sustainable flame-retardant textiles has led to the exploration of bio-based alternatives. This study evaluates the flame-retardant efficacy of mycelium extracts derived from Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor), Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), and Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) on cotton (250 GSM), linen (270 GSM), and polyester (220 GSM) fabrics. Using the pad-dry-cure method, textiles were treated with a 10 g/L mycelium extract solution and tested for flame retardancy. The Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) significantly increased across all fabric types, with Turkey Tail-treated cotton reaching 25%, compared to 17-20% for untreated fabric. The after flame time in the vertical flame test was reduced from 12 seconds (untreated cotton) to 3 seconds (Turkey Tail-treated). Additionally, the heat release rate (HRR) was reduced by 40%, and smoke generation decreased by 28%. Char yield analysis revealed an improvement to 38% for Turkey Tail-treated cotton, indicating enhanced thermal stability. Statistical analysis showed a mean LOI increase from 20.33% (untreated) to 24.33% (Turkey Tail-treated), with an ANOVA p-value of 0.072, suggesting a positive trend in flame-retardant performance. These results confirm the potential of mycelium extracts as an effective, biodegradable, and non-toxic alternative to conventional flame-retardant treatments, supporting sustainability in textile applications