MycoFlex

MycoFlex^TM is a biofabrication platform developed by biomaterials company Ecovative Design that allows users to design, prototype and manufacture mycelium-based materials.

Mycelium is found in the root structure of mushrooms. It consists of chitin, a natural polymer. Mycelium has been shown to have higher strength, flexibility and durability than plastics, resins and leather.

MycoFlex^TM helps produce a pure mycelium structure foam. It can then be tailored to make end products like performance foams, apparel, cellular scaffolding and lab-grown meat. The foam can be used to make disposable and vegan skincare products, such as cosmetic applicators that biodegrade after use. It can also be used to make lightweight insulating lofts for gloves and high-performance foams for footwear.

Their Skincare suggested range includes:

• Make-Up Sponges 
• Toe Spacers
• Eye Masks

MycoFlex^TM  foam has higher density, tensile strength, and water sorption than expanded polystyrene (EPS), according to company’s testing. It has lower thermal conductivity and is of the same EU flame standard, Class E, as EPS. The material has not been tested for mold growth or termite growth.

The company is looking for partners to commercialize more applications based on mycelium.

Evocative has also developed Mushroom Packaging, a biomaterials platform that uses mycelium as a biological binder over agricultural byproducts. The end product is used in sustainable packaging.

Ecovative Design has partnered with fashion company Bolt Threads to produce the first leather-like product branded Mylo.