WOODPECKER
Material Research
2021
BIOPLASTIC
Plastic pollution is a big problem, and we need sustainable alternatives to change how people view it. Global plastic production, as of September 2021, soared from 2 million tons in 1950 to around 368 million tons in 2019. This figure doesn't even include synthetic fibers, so the real amount is likely even higher. Predictions suggest it could reach about 600 million tons by 2025, nearly double the weight of the world's population today.
THE WASTESTREAM
Small wood chips and saw dust come from woodworking activities like sawing and sanding and can be a fire hazard in some industries and poses dust exposure risks to workers. There's also concern about substances like lignins and fatty acids from wood leaching into water and harming wildlife during large-scale wood processing
WHAT I WANTED
My goal wasn't to create a final product, given our limited time. Instead, I wanted to find a new material. Wood dust, mychosen waste, had limitations, as it required specific additives to turn it into something usable.
Pine Resin
Given its hardness and ceramic-like properties, pine resin could serve as a viable replacement for ceramics. This approach has demonstrated superior results, offering both effectiveness and efficiency compared to the other trials.
Cornstarch
Due to its brittleness, cornstarch is not well-suited for use as a building material, but it may present an alternative option for traditional packaging. With proper molding techniques, there is potential for expanded applications.
Agar Agar
The experimentation with agar agar as a bioplastic material suggests that its inherent flexibility, which it retains upon full drying, could potentially make it a viable option for future sustainable packaging solutions.
Mycelium
Unfortunately, the mycelium experiments were mostly plagued by contamination issues, despite trying different methods and standards. Although I admire the potential of mycelium, I haven't achieved the desired outcome
Here are some of the molds I encountered while growing mycelium and what you should do if you encounter them.
Trichoderma (Green Mold)
Trichoderma mold, typically green, is a frequent contaminant in mushroom cultivation, commonly found in soil. To address it, use isopropyl alcohol or remove the affected area. This mold usually doesn't impede mushroom growth, especially if isolated or small. In such cases, the mycelium may naturally contain it, or you can simply excise the affected portion.
Rhizopus Stolonifer (Pin Head Mold)
Pin Head Mold, found globally indoors, often originates from soil and air. It may be introduced to fruiting blocks by fungus gnats or fruit flies attracted to mycelium. Differentiate it from Cobweb Mold by tiny black heads on mycelium tips. If found near mushrooms or on the substrate, discard the block, as it can be harmful, particularly to those with weakened immune systems.
Cobweb Mold
Cobweb mold is often associated with spoiled fruits and can spread to mushrooms if in the same room. It resembles mycelium but is grayish in color. Unfortunately, you may need to abandon your fungi if cobweb mold takes hold.
Neurospora Crassa (Orange Bread Mold)
Orange bread mold is highly prevalent in nature and can overrun your mushroom farm, making eradication challenging. If encountered, seal the source in a plastic bag and dispose of it immediately. Avoid disturbing it, as it releases orange spores into the air.