Novel Myco-Composite Material Obtained with Fusarium oxysporum

Modern world environmental challenges dictate the need for obtaining of alternative materials in various industrial sectors. Filamentous fungi strains are complex microorganisms that are able to produce rich enzymes batteries that are able of breaking down a wide variety of organic substrates. Present work explored the potential of Fusarium oxysporum strain for creating a novel biocomposite structure, based on an alternative substrate, composed of recycled shredded paper and worn coffee. Strain was successfully grown on an alternative nutritive substrate, which allowed formation of a 64.23µm biofilm on the surface of the substrate, and development of a homogenous hyphal matrix inside the aerial structure of the substrate, yielding a high rigidity material. Both optical and SEM analyses revealed even distribution of the hyphae and partial enzymatic hydrolysis of the recycled paper, which acted as a carbon source for cell development. Flammability analysis conducted on the biofilm surface of the material revealed very good fire retardant properties, withstanding close flame contact up to 80 seconds, after which smoldering fire occurred. Preliminary results are promising in exploiting the potential of an important plant pathogen in obtaining high added value materials, based on use of organic wastes which serve a double functionality, with nutritive role and mechanical substrate.