Date of Award
Spring 6-3-2023
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Industrial Design
Department
Industrial Design
First Advisor
Tom Weis
Second Advisor
Dr. Jennifer Bissonnette
Third Advisor
Andreas Mershin
Abstract
As the world grapples with the escalating crisis of climate threats and environmental degradation, this research delves into the synergistic potential of design and biology, developing safe and sustainable materials for applications in prototyping, furniture and interior design. Harnessing the power of a unique organism - fungi, the study proposes an accessible, efficient, and resilient material resource system. It utilizes local waste streams and mycelium (the vegetative part of fungi) to grow functional structures. An experimental and small-scale protocol is modeled by testing bio-fabrication and bio-printing methods. The composites' performance qualities and characteristics are evaluated through mechanical testing and a survey of experiential attributes. A series of workshops introduced participants to the creative possibilities of integrating myco-materials into their practice, leading to insights and possibilities in new processes and products. To foster a deeper understanding of sustainability, the carbon footprint and ecological impact of these materials are examined. Envisioning a paradigm shift in industrial ecology, the proposed ideas reduce dependence on non-biodegradable, toxic, and harmful materials. With the principles of biology and design, this work hopes to transcend the trajectory of conventional materials - particularly plastics, and move toward a regenerative future.
Recommended Citation
Bhallamudi, Arvind, "Fungi in Flux | Designing Regenerative Materials and Products with Mycelium" (2023). Masters Theses. 1177.
https://digitalcommons.risd.edu/masterstheses/1177
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Included in
Biology Commons, Biomaterials Commons, Education Commons, Industrial Technology Commons, Manufacturing Commons, Materials Science and Engineering Commons, Sustainability Commons, Systems Engineering Commons