"FGVA BIO0 - MICEL.IO" FGVA BIO0 - MYCELIUM AS A BIOMATERIAL FOR CONSTRUCTION WITH VEGETABLE FIBERS AND OTHER LIGNOCELLULOSIC WASTE DESCRIPTION Biomaterials are emerging as a new alternative in the sustainable construction and architecture sector. Mycelium-based materials are making inroads in this field, as their properties are highly promising for a wide range of applications. The manufacturing system is known as "Mycotecture" and has been used in various exhibitions, case studies, and interior design projects. This technique utilizes fungi, promoting the growth of hyphae (the filamentous network) and suppressing the fruiting body (the mushroom), thereby allowing the mycelium to proliferate when present on wood substrates. The mycelium is grown in molds next to the substrate to form lightweight, biodegradable structures, enabling the creation of building elements for thermal and acoustic insulation applications, strength like concrete, or even furniture pieces. The project proposes a continuation of the strategic line of research achieved in: - MORTY (self-healing mortars, through the action of microorganisms) - MOTOVEGI (innovative mortars made from plant fibers) But the main new feature to highlight is that the synergy between wood waste (plant fibers, agroforestry fibers, or other woods) and the mycelium generated by fungi (which acts as a binding or reinforcing agent) will be studied, lightening the material and promoting the circular economy. OBJECTIVES The objectives of the project are: 1. Substrate characterization and fungal strain selection. We will investigate how different fungal strains interact with various agroforestry substrates, identifying the combinations that generate the best mechanical and insulation properties in the final composite material. 2. Optimizing growing conditions. Different variables such as temperature, humidity, pH, nutrient concentration, and aeration will be tested to determine the optimal conditions for mycelium growth and composite formation. 3. Characterization of composite materials. Properties such as tensile strength, compression, flexural strength, and modulus of elasticity will be evaluated. Thermal conductivity and insulation will be measured. Density, porosity, hygroscopicity, and dimensional stability will be determined. Finally, resistance to moisture, temperature changes, and microorganisms will be assessed. 4. Development of new applications and optimization of properties. Various techniques will be used to improve the mechanical, thermal, and durability properties of the material. Finally, new potential applications of the material will be investigated. Project Number: 22500015 Grant Agreement: IMAMCA/2025/2 Duration: From 01/01/2025 to 31/12/2025 Coordinated in AIDIMME by: CAMIÑA URGEL,CARLA R&D line: BIOECONOMY AND SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION RESULTS OBTAINED Year 2025: The key characteristics of common reed fibers, rice husks, and pine wood that influence mycelium growth and the final properties of the biomaterial have been identified. Two species of fast-growing basidiomycete fungi that degrade lignin/cellulose have also been evaluated, along with the selection of the inoculation method. The most suitable conditions and parameters for all stages of biomaterial manufacturing have been determined. Furthermore, analytical techniques have been performed on the obtained samples. An investigation has been conducted to improve the performance of the designed and manufactured prototypes, based on their applicability. Finally, the range of applications for the biomaterials has been studied and expanded, considering new uses based on the characteristics obtained. Deliverables:    PUBLISHED NEWS general broadcast https://actualidad.aidimme.es/2025/03/17/aidimme-fondos- (...) Technical dissemination, transfer https://actualidad.aidimme.es/2026/01/24/aidimme-logra-p (...) https://actualidad.aidimme.es/2025/12/30/aidimme-concluy (...) https://actualidad.aidimme.es/2025/10/15/aidimme-investi (...) Dissemination companies https://actualidad.aidimme.es/2025/10/30/aidimme-asistio (...) GRANT 3.705.270 € € "" TARGET AUDIENCE AND IMPACT MEASUREMENT 2368 Access to the project website 1329 Access to news published on own websites. Total Accesses: 3697 Objective Sectors by CNAE CNAE: 2364 - Manufacture of mortar - Number of target companies: 5 (2 from the Valencian Community) Objective Sectors by Activity CONSTRUCTION AND STRUCTURES - Number of target companies: 29 (15 from the Valencian Community) TRACTOR COMPANIES Thanks to its support and signature of the "declaration of participation" the project has been funded. COMPANIES DIFFUSION R&D PROJECTS They want to know first-hand the evolution of the project, and its progress to the final result. COMPANIES TRANSFER KNOWLEDGE They will implement technologies, develop strategies or look for new models based on the results.