3d Printed Bio-hybrid Structures: Investigating the architectural potentials of mycoremediation

Abstract

In this paper, we present a speculative design concept for a mycelium-based living bio-hybrid architectural system. The system combines inoculated lignocellulosic substrates with soil-based 3d printed structures that function as growth scaffolds, material boundaries and spatial organisers. The primary objective of the system is to exploit mycelium as a living remediator of contaminated sites, in the form of architectural proposition. The feasibility of this concept is investigated in two ways: 1) material composition development and process control parameters for soil-based 3d printing, 2) the synthesis of printed prototypes to determine geometric and environmental parameters for promoting colonisation of mycelium and supporting its role as both structural binder and `Mycorestoration' agent. This work is contextualised with reference to the state-of-the-art in order to identify the research gap and articulate the contribution of a mycelium-based remediating architecture. The merits and limits of the experimental results are reflected upon and trajectories of further investigation outlined.