Sources:
Fomes fomentarius, more commonly known as Amadouvier, is a prolific mushroom in the northern hemisphere. Its growth on wood, by decomposing its material, allows it to reach an impressive diameter of 50 cm. Although its use dates back to prehistoric times as a fire starter, its applications in other fields, notably in medicine and as a biomaterial, are little known.
A recent study published in the journal Science Advances, carried out by a team of Finnish, German and Dutch researchers, highlights the fascinating properties of this mushroom and explores its potential as an innovative biomaterial.
Biomaterials: An Industry in Full Expansion
The biomaterials industry has experienced considerable growth in recent years, and mycomaterials, made from organic matter, are proving to be ecological and economical alternatives to traditional materials. They also offer the advantage of being biodegradable, thus requiring less carbon dioxide in their manufacturing process.
The in-depth study of the structure of Amadouvier revealed an organization in three distinct layers, each presenting specific physical properties. The crust, not very porous and dense, contrasts with the foamy and cooking layer, while a third layer is made up of hollow tubular structures oriented in parallel.
Research has shown that each layer of Amadouvier has mechanical properties comparable to those of commonly used materials such as pine, leather or plywood. This discovery opens the way to a multitude of potential applications, ranging from the textile industry to medicine.
The Future of Amadouvier
The researchers believe that their study could serve as a basis for the design of new materials, particularly in the development of nanocomposites or polysaccharides. Additionally, Amadouvier could play a crucial role in medical tissue engineering or the manufacturing of orthopedic implants, providing a sustainable alternative to polluting plastics.