Architects and designers have long sought sustainable alternatives to traditional construction materials like concrete, which are both resource-intensive and environmentally harmful. Now, researchers at Montana State University have developed an innovative building material that could change the future of architecture. This novel material is made from fungal mycelium—the thread-like root structures of fungi—combined with bacteria that trigger a natural mineralization process. The result is a lightweight yet durable material that remains alive for over a month, and can even be shaped into intricate, bone-like geometries.
Unlike concrete, which requires high-temperature production and emits a significant amount of carbon dioxide, this new material is grown at low temperatures, reducing its carbon footprint. The hardening process it undergoes is reminiscent of how coral and shells form naturally in the ocean, using minerals from the environment. This provides a sustainable alternative to conventional construction materials while potentially contributing to the overall reduction in global carbon emissions.
While the material has not been specifically tested for self-healing properties, its extended lifespan and living nature suggest that it could have regenerative capabilities in the future. This opens up the possibility of using the material for functions beyond simple construction, such as pollutant cleanup and environmental restoration. For example, as it remains alive, the material could have the ability to heal itself over time, much like natural systems that regenerate after being damaged. This could make it a highly resilient option for future architectural projects.
The researchers used the fungus Neurospora crassa as a biological scaffold. This fungus is either self-mineralized or colonized by the soil bacterium Sporosarcina pasteurii, which helps trigger the mineralization process that strengthens the material. The interaction between the fungus and bacteria creates a durable, formable substance that offers both sustainability and biological functionality. The material could one day be used in a variety of architectural components, from walls to insulation, offering a much-needed shift in how buildings are constructed.
In addition to being an eco-friendly option, this material could also offer new opportunities for innovative architectural design. Its ability to be shaped into complex geometries opens up creative possibilities, which would be difficult to achieve with conventional materials. The lightweight nature of the material, combined with its potential for low-cost production, makes it an attractive alternative for future construction projects.
In conclusion, this new building material made from mycelium and bacteria presents an exciting and sustainable alternative to concrete. It combines performance, durability, and biological functions, offering architects a new tool for designing the next generation of eco-friendly buildings. If its potential is fully realized, this material could play a key role in transforming the future of construction and addressing environmental concerns in the industry.
