Growing Circular Materials
Project Overview
About
Construction and manufacturing depend on carbon-intensive foams, boards and composites, while large quantities of agricultural and wood waste are discarded. This project uses mycelium, the root-like network of fungi, as a natural binder that grows through waste fibres to form materials without synthetic adhesives or fossil-based resins. By adjusting their density and structure, the composites can be used for insulation, sound absorption, packaging and interior panels. Initial life-cycle studies suggest they could reduce carbon emissions by 70–85% compared with conventional petroleum-based foams.
Team
Xin Ying Chan
My work explores mycelium-based composites, using fungal networks to grow materials with reduced environmental impact and new functional possibilities. By combining engineering with biological processes, I aim to create materials designed for a circular life cycle, with applications ranging from sustainable packaging to furniture. My work seeks to reduce reliance on conventional materials, valorize waste resources, and demonstrate how circular material systems can enable more sustainable production and consumption.