Innovative Research on Fungal Structures Promises Advanced Materials

In a groundbreaking study, researchers from Binghamton University, State University of New York, are exploring the mechanical properties of fungi to unlock innovative material applications. The research, published in the *Advanced Engineering Materials* journal on March 15, 2025, focuses on the intricate cell structure of mushrooms, revealing potential for superior material designs applicable in various industries.

Fungi, which have existed for millions of years, have evolved unique survival mechanisms that researchers believe can be harnessed for modern engineering solutions. The study specifically examines the microscopic filaments known as hyphae, which form a complex network within mushrooms. By analyzing two different species—the common white button mushroom (*Agaricus bisporus*) and the maitake mushroom (*Grifola frondosa*)—the researchers discovered that the structural variations of these hyphal filaments significantly impact their mechanical responses to stress.

"The white button mushroom has a singular type of hyphal filament and grows without a defined orientation, while the maitake mushroom boasts two types of filaments and grows preferentially towards sunlight and moisture," explained Mohamed Khalil Elhachimi, a PhD student at Binghamton University who serves as the study's lead author. The team utilized scanning electron microscopy for cell structure imaging and conducted mechanical stress tests to determine the load-bearing capabilities of these fungi.

The research aims to develop a finite element model that will predict mechanical behavior based on structural data. According to Assistant Professor Mir Jalil Razavi, advancements in artificial intelligence have expedited the mapping of filament configurations. "The ability to simulate 10,000 filaments and their orientations is a task well-suited for AI, enabling us to explore new material possibilities," Razavi noted.

The next phase of the project will utilize 3D printing technology to create materials with the predicted structures, followed by rigorous testing to evaluate performance. The implications of this research extend to various fields, including construction and aerospace, where materials are routinely subjected to mechanical stresses. "Nature holds vast lessons for innovation, and we are only beginning to tap into this potential," Razavi added.

This study not only highlights the intersection of biology and engineering but also emphasizes the role of interdisciplinary research in addressing contemporary material challenges. The findings could lead to significant advancements in product durability and sustainability, marking a pivotal step towards integrating natural designs into engineered materials.

Contributors to this study include Binghamton PhD student Akbar Solhtalab and Assistant Professor Debora Lyn Porter from the University of California, Merced. The research received support from the Integrated Electronics Engineering Center at Binghamton University. As the project progresses, the team anticipates further exploration of how fungal structures can transform material science and engineering practices, potentially redefining standards in various industrial applications.