What happens when we allow a piece of mushroom mycelium from the Fungarium to decay under controlled conditions? How does this affect the soil and the air? These are important questions, as mycelium may one day be used as packaging or insulation material – and subsequently be disposed of in a sustainable manner. The terrarium project seeks to explore and answer these questions in depth.
As a reminder, Fungarium is a startup working on the development of a bio-based material made from mushroom mycelium. This material is highly versatile – essentially a kind of bio-based styrofoam. As part of a collaboration with Fungarium, ZAM is providing the team with a base for their work and office activities. In return, Fungarium is setting up a bio-workshop at ZAM.
Here’s how the terrarium project works:
A terrarium provides a controlled space where certain environmental conditions can be set. The terrarium is filled with soil and a piece of mushroom mycelium. Fans and an irrigation system provide steady airflow and moisture throughout the terrarium. Sensors monitor all relevant parameters, such as temperature, humidity, CO2, methane, light intensity, and more. The data is continuously recorded and displayed as graphs for analysis. This allows for precise documentation of the overall condition. This process takes place over the course of a year.
The collected data may provide insights into the environmental impact of the mycelium material. Because the team isn’t planning to build just one terrarium – but several. Only then can meaningful comparisons be made — particularly with the reference terrarium, where no mycelium material is used. By the way, Ruben from Fungarium promises: All collected data will be accessible to everyone in real time — that’s open data!
https://youtu.be/y4IX5AYKySk
Sounds exciting – like an adventurous journey that brings together so many aspects: science, technology, craftsmanship… and fun!
The Terrarium-Projekt is open for everyone, who’s interested in it. During the various project phases, we’ll be hosting hands-on participation days — and we’ll make sure to let you know in advance.
We’re on it – and we’ll keep you posted!