Quantification and specification of agricultural by-products as local resources for mycelium-bound composites

Abstract

The research focuses on Upstate New York and quantifies the available agricultural wastes and by-products to identify their application as substrates for mycelium-bound composites (hereinafter MBC) functioning as nutrient, aggregate, and reinforcement in the production of local biological building materials. The literature review indicates that the biggest contributor to the mechanical strength of MBC is the substrate’s ability to support strong and dense mycelial growth. To estimate the locally available agricultural wastes in the Finger Lakes region of New York, yield data, residue-to-grain ratio, moisture content, and weight are used to determine the dry tons of residue produced in 2021 in New York. Reports suggest that agricultural residues, particularly corn stover, are widespread and underutilized in the United States, representing a major potential resource. This research explores the potential of using corn stover, especially cobs as a material resource for new circular construction paradigms in the Finger Lakes region’s circular economy. Further research aims to increase control of growth parameters and material specification in the production of local biological building materials.