Bio-Fabrication of a Biodegradable Flower Vase from Sawdust Using Fungal Mycelium: Dual Function for Spent Mushroom Substrate

Abstract

The growing environmental burden of plastic waste necessitates sustainable alternatives derived from renewable resources. Therefore, mycelium-based composites have emerged as promising biomaterials. The main objectives of the study is to develop a biodegradable flower vase. A mycelium-based biomaterial was developed by cultivating Pleurotus ostreatus on a formulated sawdust substrate under controlled conditions. The fully colonised moulded composite was heat-treated to produce a biodegradable flower vase. Mechanical strength, water absorption, and microstructural and elemental properties were analysed using standard techniques, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). In contrast to SMS as a residual by-product, the material was purpose-designed as a structural composite. The developed biomaterial exhibited a mean compressive strength of 0.22 N/mm2, exceeding the plastic control (0.15 N/mm2), indicating adequate structural performance. SEM analysis revealed a compact, interconnected hyphal network, while EDX confirmed the absence of toxic elements. However, water absorption was high (approximately 229%), reflecting significant porosity and representing a key limitation. The biomaterial demonstrates potential as a lightweight, biodegradable, and non-toxic alternative to conventional plastics, with an added dual-use advantage for mushroom cultivation and post-use valorization. Further optimization is required to improve water resistance for broader applications.