Mycelium Bricks

Mycelium Bricks

In response to climate change, the construction industry is exploring low-carbon alternatives, and mycelium bricks have emerged as a promising innovation.

Mycelium Bricks:
Made from fungal spores, husk, and sawdust, mycelium bricks create a lightweight, fibrous structure that has a significantly lower environmental impact compared to traditional fired clay bricks, which contribute to nearly 300 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.
These bricks are biodegradable, fire-resistant, lightweight, and excellent heat insulators, making them ideal for use in interior panelling, liquid filters, and electronic components.
Potential uses include interior panelling, liquid filtration, sports equipment, and electronic parts.

Challenges to Widespread Use:

Mycelium bricks have limited load-bearing capacity, high moisture absorption, and a relatively short lifespan due to their biodegradability and susceptibility to termites, making them less durable than concrete.
In tropical climates like India, high humidity, along with a lack of infrastructure, makes large-scale production costly and impractical.

Potential Solutions:
The addition of flame retardants and UV coatings can enhance fire resistance and durability. Additionally, increased research and development, along with policy support, could help improve the competitiveness of mycelium bricks in comparison to traditional clay bricks.

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