About the MycEoLA Project and MNEXT
As sustainable building methods gain momentum, the need for viable, low-impact alternatives to traditional construction materials is becoming increasingly urgent. Mycelium biocomposites (MBCs) are emerging as promising biobased substitutes for conventional insulation and board materials. Mycelium — the underground fungal network — acts as a natural binder, growing through organic residual streams such as straw, hemp shives, grass or pepper stems to form a strong, lightweight composite. MBCs can be formed as either boards or foams, offering potential replacements for materials like MDF, EPS and PIR.
Now that MBCs are approaching market readiness, understanding their end-of-life pathways is crucial. The MycEoLA project explores these strategies, focusing specifically on remanufacturing and reusing MBCs to accelerate circular construction practices.
You will join MNEXT’s research environment, working closely with the project leader Fran Ortega Exposito and internship supervisor Neha John, alongside a multidisciplinary team dedicated to sustainable materials innovation.
Assignment Description
As an intern, you will investigate whether remanufactured mycelium biocomposites can match the performance of newly produced MBCs. This involves examining mechanical, thermal and moisture-related properties, as well as microstructural characteristics, to understand how the material behaves after remanufacturing. The outcomes will help determine feasible applications for remanufactured MBCs, particularly in sustainable insulation.
Project objectives include:
- Remanufacturing research: Exploring processes and techniques for transforming used MBCs into new mycelium boards
- Material characterization: Investigating mechanical, thermal, moisture and microstructural properties
- Application development: Identifying optimal uses for remanufactured MBCs within the built environment
- Your main tasks will include:
- Conducting a literature review on the properties and remanufacturability of MBCs
- Working in the mycelium laboratory to fabricate remanufactured samples
- Performing property tests to establish material boundaries and compare remanufactured vs. newly made MBCs
- Brainstorming potential applications and participating in early-stage prototyping
Desirable Skills
We are looking for a student who:
- Can work independently and conduct laboratory research after an introduction
- Has a background in materials science, environmental science, product design, and/or biology
- Is studying at HBO or university level
- Is motivated by sustainability and hands-on experimentation
Practical Details
Starting Date
September 2024
Duration
Approximately 20 weeks
Location
Mycelium laboratory facilities (Breda)
Working Language
English
Compensation
Internship fee of €350 per month