Work

Cross-linking impacts the physical properties of mycelium leather alternatives by targeting hydroxyl groups of polysaccharides and amino groups of proteins

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Untanned sheets had a σ of 7.8 MPa and an ε of 15.2 %, while the best overall combination of strength and elasticity was obtained with 0.1 % glutaraldehyde with a σ of 11.1 MPa and an ε of 14.6 %. Cross-linking also increased enzymatic stability and reduced mycelial water absorption but did not result in increased thermal stability. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), 1D nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), and amino acid analysis showed that glutaraldehyde bound both protein amino groups and polysaccharide hydroxyl groups by forming Schiff bases and acetals, respectively. Together, synthetic and vegetable cross-linkers can be used to obtain mycelium materials with leather-like tensile strength.

Source: Heliyon

DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e36263

Authors: Antonio d’Errico, Michaela Schröpfer, Anke Mondschein, Adil A. Safeer, Marc Baldus, Han A.B. Wösten

Institutions: Utrecht University, Forschungsinstitut für Leder und Kunststoffbahnen

Language: English

Topic: Dyeing and Modifying Textile Fibers

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,100

Funders: Universiteit Utrecht, Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, The Research Council, Horizon 2020 Framework Programme