The aim of the project is to develop a bio-based sound absorber using the double porosity method. The product is manufactured on the basis of fungal mycelium, which is nourished from plant residues - including spent grains from beer production. In the process, energy-intensive substrate sterilization by heat is to be avoided as far as possible.
In the field of sound absorbers, the fungal material currently under development is a sustainable, bio-based alternative to conventional materials such as polyester foams or mineral fiber-based composites. In addition, the production of the absorber using 3D printing offers particular advantages.
Interest groups, such as retailers of acoustic products, and users, such as interior designers, are actively involved in the design process. It is planned to present the development and the product during a feedback workshop. In this way, the input of the end users can be taken into account during the development process. The aim of the workshop is the specific design of the sound absorber for the target groups and the definition of use cases. At the same time it serves to get to know this new material for the first time.
In the course of the project, different mushroom species were compared for their applicability for the project benefit. In addition, investigations on substrate content and composition were carried out. In the field of 3D printing, different additives were tested for use as emulsifiers for the printing paste. First measurements for the acoustic evaluation of the material were carried out.
Fraunhofer-Institut für Bauphysik (IBP)
Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety and Energy Technology UMSICHT