About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2026 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Biological Materials Science
|
| Presentation Title |
Microscopic Insights into the Functional and Mechanical Properties of Mycelium |
| Author(s) |
Judith Gómez Cuyàs, Moritz Garger, Markus Künzler, Henning Galinski, Ralph Spolenak |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Judith Gómez Cuyàs |
| Abstract Scope |
Mycelium, the root-like structure of fungi, offers a dynamic platform for developing bio-based functional materials with tailored characteristics. Still, a key challenge in fungal research is to translate the properties obtained at the hyphae level to bulk materials.
In this work we outline how specific properties of hyphal systems, such as typology, arrangement, density, and connectivity of hyphae, can be linked to macroscopic mechanical and optical properties. Using serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM), optical spectroscopy, and mechanical testing, we demonstrate, how these features govern effective Young’s modulus, fracture behavior and diffuse scattering of light. In addition, an attempt will be made to change optical performance by mechanical actuation. Our findings highlight the importance of network-level organization in optimizing system performance and enable informed design of functional mycelium-based materials. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
Biomaterials, Characterization, Mechanical Properties |