Fungal composites with nanoparticles: Functionalisation and multiscale characterisation of physicochemical properties and thermal stability
B02
Research Area:
Experimental Materials Science
Affiliation:
Technische Universität Berlin | Institute of Material Science and Technologies
Department:
Advanced Ceramic Materials
Principal Investigator:
Aleksander Gurlo
Sub-project B02 is run by Prof. Aleksander Gurlo (Advanced Ceramic Materials, TUB). The sub-project establishes suitable synthesis and functionalisation routes of fungal composites. By comprehensively characterising differently cultivated, composed, and functionalised fungal composites, structure-property-relationships are established, with the focus on building materials with suitable physicochemical properties, thermal stability, and environmental resilience.
The sub-project investigates functionalisation mechanisms, such as hyphal surface modifications and the diffusion of active components into cell walls, to create durable materials. The functionalisation will be performed either during or after fungal inactivation. The insights gained support applications in construction, addressing aspects like mechanical and thermal stability, moisture resistance, and degradation prevention under sunlight exposure.
The subproject is carried out in close collaboration with A04, B01, B03, and C01, and provides data on durability to A01 – A07.