In this research, we aim to explore the use of knitted textiles as a framework and reinforcement system to develop fiber composite mycelium-based architectural structures that we call “MycoKnit.” We aim to test the MycoKnit system with a large-scale 1:1 proof of concept architectural structure in the Directed Research Studio program in the Department of Architecture at Pennsylvania State University. Mycelium and knitted textiles made of natural yarns are both organic systems, and when integrated, can offer a sustainable and biodegradable material and structural system that is strong in both tension and compression. By exploring the interrelated behavior of mycelium-based composites and knitted textiles, where the knit is used as a growing base for mycelium materials, our goal is to enable a lightweight and biodegradable building material and structural system.

Mycelium is the vegetative root of fungi that absorbs nutrients from organic matter and binds them. The treatment of mycelium results in a foam-like composite material, called mycelium-based composites, that is lightweight and biodegradable. The material properties of this composite material depend on various factors, such as the substrate mixture, the fungal species used for inoculation, and environmental conditions of growth. By modifying these factors, it is possible to obtain graded materials that have different properties. Furthermore, this composite material can be shaped using formwork, as well as additive and subtractive manufacturing techniques. In recent years, various scholars have explored the use of mycelium-based composites as load-bearing structural agents in architecture. [1] Knitted textiles can be made by generating loops, called stitches, on a continuous yarn and moving the yarn through these stitches iteratively. Knits have a multidirectional behavior that is derived from their special structure and formation process. Textiles, and specifically knitted textiles, due to their flexible and multidirectional behaviors, have been used to develop seamless tension structures with varying complexities. Textiles, in general, have been used as formwork for concrete, resin, etc. to fabricate composite structural systems. [2] In this research, we will explore the use of knitted textiles made by natural yarns as formwork, reinforcement, and nutrients for the mycelium to develop novel mycelium-based composite structures.

There is a recent interest in cultivating mycelium-based materials on knitted textiles in the fashion industry due to their sustainable features. [3] In this research, our goal is to explore this integration for the development of sustainable and biodegradable structural systems that we call MycoKnit. Due to the intrinsic material uncertainties of both the knitted textiles and mycelium-based composites, it is necessary to study their behaviors interdependently. Therefore, as a group of researchers who have been working on knitted textiles and mycelium-based composites independently, we decided to join our efforts and collaborate for this research. This collaboration will enable us to develop design and fabrication workflows for MycoKnit, and lightweight and biodegradable composite structures.

The project is significant because it offers architects and designers the possibility to make lightweight, large-scale shelters using industrially knitted textiles embedded with fungi mycelium. These structures would have the potential to be completely biodegradable. As building materials are some of the least biodegradable materials making up most of the content of landfills globally, this would be a significant contribution toward reducing building waste.

Research Team: Felecia Davis, Ali Ghazvinian, Benay Gürsoy, Farzaneh Oghazian, John Pecchia, Andre West
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Year: 2021-2023