Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGBBiofabrication opens up new possibilities as a resource-efficient production system for so-called engineered living materials (ELM). These are biologically active structures based on living fungal cells that grow into predefined shapes. At Fraunhofer IGB, we use fungal mycelium as a promising material for a new generation of sustainable, bio-based composites that are biodegradable and made from renewable raw materials.
Engineered Living Materials (ELM)
Fungal mycelium-based materials for a new generation of sustainable, bio-based composites
Engineered living materials (ELM) are functional materials that specifically integrate living cells into their structure, thereby acquiring active properties. If the materials are deactivated after shaping, e.g., by heating, the result is durable and inert components.
At Fraunhofer IGB, we are developing, in particular, fungal mycelium-based material systems that enable new functions through growth, self-organization, and material transformation. Materials made from fungal mycelium are biodegradable and can be produced from renewable raw materials. In combination with additive manufacturing processes, this results in structured, bioactive, and sustainable materials. 3D printing of the ELM enables free, precise design and faster prototype development.
3D-printed mycelium-based materials open up applications, for example, in lightweight construction, as biodegradable components, or in bioactive filtration systems.
Our services: from cultivation and shaping to functional prototypes
Establishment of biological systems and material foundations
We develop biological systems as the foundation for engineered living materials. In particular, we utilize fungus-based systems that are specifically developed for functional material applications.
Our services at a glance
- Selection and cultivation of suitable organisms, particularly fungal mycelium-based systems
- Establishment and characterization of biological material platforms
- Control of growth, structure, and material properties
- Investigation of biological and functional properties of living materials
3D printing of fungal mycelium
3D-printed material based on fungal mycelium
Material and process development and additive manufacturing
We develop bio-based materials and formulations and process them using additive manufacturing methods to create structured engineered living materials.
Our services at a glance
- Development of printable material formulations (bio-inks)
- Adaptation of rheological properties to various printing processes
- Combination of biological and polymer-based materials
- 2D and 3D printing of living and bio-based materials
- Development of process-specific printing strategies
- Control of shaping and material architecture
- Characterization of mechanical and functional material properties
- Scale-up and process optimization
Functionalization and applications
We develop engineered living materials with defined functions for various fields of application.
Our services at a glance
- Development of bioactive and functional materials
- Utilization of living systems for adaptive and reactive functions (e.g., filtration)
- Production of biodegradable and sustainable materials
- Development of demonstrators, e.g., for lightweight construction or filtration systems
- Strategies for activating or deactivating biological functions depending on the application