About MNEXT and the Biobased Construction Team
The construction industry has a significant environmental footprint, consuming vast resources and accounting for around 50% of all extracted materials. Concrete production is a major contributor to this impact: cement, a key component of concrete, is responsible for roughly 8% of global CO₂ emissions, equivalent to about 1.6 billion metric tonnes of CO₂ in 2022. Concrete production requires intensive mining of finite raw materials, which leads to habitat destruction, biodiversity loss and major alterations to natural landscapes. In addition, cement plants are often located near marginalized, low-income communities, where emissions negatively affect air quality and public health.
Although many research efforts focus on sustainable and/or biobased concrete, challenges remain regarding long-term durability, scalability and meeting the strict performance requirements and standards of conventional concrete.
At MNEXT, the Biobased Construction team focuses on the materials transition within the built environment. Our researchers are based in Breda, Den Bosch and Middelburg, and represent a range of expertise. You will work in a diverse and supportive research environment as part of the broader MNEXT community.
Assignment Description
This project will explore the mechanical properties of MycoClay samples. MycoClay leverages mycelium’s natural binding capabilities and clay’s structural properties to create a circular, durable component that could replace or complement cement-based materials.
Using cementitious concrete and rammed earth as reference materials, you will structurally test MycoClay samples to evaluate their viability as construction materials. Once the mechanical properties of MycoClay have been established, you will investigate its potential as a concrete alternative by adding sand and gravel to create more complex mixes.
Your main tasks will include:
- Conducting a thorough literature review to catalogue existing research and currently tested properties
- Working in the mycelium laboratory to fabricate MycoClay samples (in-person at the JRCB laboratory facilities in Breda)
- Performing mechanical and durability tests on the developed samples
- Brainstorming potential applications and contributing to early-stage prototyping
- The insights from this project will lay the foundation for future work on sustainable, biobased construction materials and help define MycoClay’s role within the built environment.
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
- Preferably has experience or strong interest in mechanical properties and/or mechanical testing
- Is studying at HBO or university level (both are welcome)
- Is motivated to contribute to sustainable construction and enjoys hands-on experimentation
Practical Details
Location
JRCB laboratory facilities, Breda (with the Biobased Construction team active across Breda, Den Bosch and Middelburg).
Internship Duration
Approximately 20 weeks (graduation or internship assignment; starting date to be agreed upon).
Working Language
English.
Compensation
Internship fee of €400 per month.