Designing with Mycelium (2020)

Designing with Mycelium – Utilising spatial printing to create scaffolds for mycelium growth (2019)

Elize Koetsier

As concerns about the environmental impact of synthetic materials grow, there has been a significant shift in research towards discovering more sustainable methods of manufacturing. Designers and manufacturers are now prioritizing the selection of eco-friendly materials, whether by opting for more durable and adaptable options that stand the test of time or by incorporating sustainable bio-materials into products designed for short-term use. One of the most intriguing areas of research involves using natural growth systems to produce materials, with the process being guided by advanced technologies like 3D printing or digitally crafted molds. This approach is known as Hybrid Construction Systems, where natural and man-made techniques are combined to create innovative fabrication methods.

This research portfolio delves into the potential and challenges of using mycelium-based composites in conjunction with spatially printed structures to shape and define the form, material properties, and possible applications of these materials. Mycelium, a naturally occurring fungal material, possesses several unique qualities that make it an attractive option for sustainable design. When used correctly, mycelium can serve as a structurally sound material, offering the added benefit of being compostable once its use has concluded. This characteristic makes it a viable alternative for creating eco-friendly, short-term products or even large-scale temporary structures.

There has been a surge of interest in using mycelium within architectural contexts in recent years. One notable example is the Mycotree project, which constructed a load-bearing structure from mycelium composite blocks. These blocks were designed using 3D graphic software, illustrating the potential of combining digital design with natural materials (Heisel et al., 2017). A common thread among such projects is the use of engineered molds to grow the mycelium composite, which is later assembled into the final structure.

The research presented here explores the creation of 3D printed scaffolds and examines how these structures interact with mycelium-based composites in terms of growth and material manipulation. The research specifically focused on analyzing the form, pattern, and structure of 3D printed objects to determine their suitability for supporting mycelium growth. The processes that proved successful were then applied to the design of larger structures, showcasing the possibilities and advantages of this innovative method. The findings in this research suggest that spatial printing offers a promising way to create scaffolds that support the growth of mycelium composites. By defining the form and strength of the material, this method opens up new design opportunities that differ significantly from traditional casting molds.