This article is also available in Italian / Questo articolo è disponibile anche in italiano
Founded in 2022, the Argentinian startup Mycorium Biotech specialises in the production of a sustainable biomaterial similar to leather, obtained by fermenting mycelium from fungi using agro-industrial waste, such as beer and grape processing residues.
Agro-industrial waste, such as beer bagasse and pomace from grapes, undergoes solid-state fermentation to provide the mycelium with the necessary nutrients to develop into a biomaterial. After approximately ten days of fermentation, the mycelium is collected and treated with plasticisers to enhance its durability.
Inspired by scientists Diana Romanini, Rocio Meini, and Adriana Clementz, "the patented process combines synthetic biology and precision fermentation," explains CEO Augustin Schiavio. "Agro-industrial waste is transformed into high-performance alternative leather, without sacrificing quality, price, or the planet."
This is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional leather and so-called eco-leathers, which are often derived from plastics. These, says Schiavio, "add scalability and low costs, but are highly polluting, whereas we aspire to be a third option that combines scalability and sustainability."
The resulting biomaterial is biodegradable and is currently used to create products such as cases for glasses and mobile phones. In the future, the aim is to expand the range to include wallets, bags, footwear, and automotive seat upholstery. The company, which has already attracted the attention of international brands like Adidas, aims to establish industrial partnerships to scale up its production capacity.
Web site:
Name:
Mycorium Biotech
Sector:
New materials
Pros:
Use of agro-industrial waste such as beer and grape processing residues
Features:
Development of innovative materials through fungal fermentation to create biobased leather
Cover: Mycorium