MYCELIUM-BASED MATERIALS FOR THE ECODESIGN OF BIOECONOMY

The exceptional organic recycling ability of fungi is attracting attention in the bioeconomy, being exploited in industrial processes. Mushroom mycelium has been classified as the largest living organism on earth, being capable of growth through its symbiotic relationship with the substrate components. The ability of fungal mycelium to decompose lignocellulosic materials makes it usable for the fabrication of packaging materials, as isolation material or for bio-textile products. This paper presents an up-todate overview of the current state of the art regarding mycelium biostructures. Thus, we described the development of research over the years, the most tested fungal species, the most used substrates and the up-to-date findings regarding technological challenges.