Turkey Tail Mushroom Coating Offers Eco-Friendly Plastic Alternative

Research from the University of Maine has unveiled a groundbreaking alternative to single-use plastic wrap and synthetic coatings for paper cups. By combining the edible turkey tail mushroom, scientifically known as Trametes versicolor, with wood fiber solutions, the team developed a sustainable, waterproof coating that could significantly reduce plastic waste.

The study, published in the journal Langmuir, focused on creating a food-safe coating resistant to water, oil, and grease. Researchers experimented with the mycelium, a root-like structure of the mushroom, which forms a dense network of feather-like strands. This mycelium was paired with tiny wood cellulose fibers known as nanofibrils, commonly used in paper-making, to engineer an effective barrier against various liquids.

“Our hope is that by providing more ways to potentially reduce our reliance on single-use plastics, we can help lessen the waste that ends up in landfills and the ocean,” said Assoc. Prof. Caitlin Howell, the study’s corresponding author. “Nature offers elegant, sustainable solutions to help us get there.”

Innovative Coating Process

The researchers applied the mycelium and wood fiber mixture in thin layers on various surfaces, including paper, denim, polyester felt, and birch wood veneer. After being dried in an oven for a day, a robust waterproof coating was formed within three days of growth under warm conditions. By the fourth day, the coating exhibited distinctive yellow, orange, or tan markings.

Tests conducted on the coated materials demonstrated that water droplets bead up, while those on untreated surfaces either spread out or were absorbed. The coating also effectively repelled other liquids, including fuel n-heptane, toluene, and castor oil, indicating its potential for diverse applications beyond just food protection.

Broader Applications of Mycelium Technology

The use of mycelium in various fields is gaining momentum. For instance, researchers at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed tiles from oyster mushrooms and bamboo scraps, designed to enhance energy efficiency in buildings. These tiles mimic the texture of elephant skin and are intended to regulate temperature.

In a different innovation, Newcastle University in Britain is working on mycocrete, a type of concrete that combines mycelium with grains and other materials. This emerging technology highlights the versatility of mycelium as a sustainable building material.

The findings from the University of Maine not only contribute to the growing body of research on biodegradable alternatives to plastics but also emphasize the importance of harnessing natural materials for innovative solutions. As the world grapples with plastic pollution, advancements like these offer hope for a more sustainable future.