The Myc.element project researches different methods, techniques and conditions that could be applied in order to create a fungus material with specific properties as a replacement for wood panels. The mycelium-based material is produced by utilizing different waste materials that enable most successful growth patterns: straw, saw dust, wheat bran, spelt husks and more. Through a series of experiments, the result shows performance of mycelium as a natural glue for the mycelial material, exploring its properties, relations with other materials, manufacturing processes, forms and shapes. During the process we observe, reflect, study and understand the limitations and the opportunities of fungal organisms. Consider the use of natural organic materials for sustainable design process, we assay to emphasize its aesthetic properties in contemporary furniture design. The desired properties of the obtained final material should be dense and stable. The next step of the process brings forth different technical and experiential qualities of the material by applying several processing methods such as reshaping, joining, drilling and compressing. Thus Myc.element illustrates a possible future use of such mycelium-based material for design applications, e.g. within the context of furniture, and provides a more sustainable production perspective.
