Fungus-Based Building Material Self-Repairs for Over a Month, Offers Sustainable Alternative to Concrete

Recently, engineers have developed a new building material that leverages the root-like structures of live fungi, known as mycelium, along with bacterial cells. This material, manufactured under low-temperature conditions, possesses the remarkable ability to self-repair, a feature that can last for over a month. The findings were published in the journal *Cell Reports Physical Science*, highlighting the potential of this material as a sustainable alternative to high-emission building materials like concrete. The combination of fungi and bacteria is what endows this material with its extraordinary self-healing properties. When cracks or damage occur, the internal mycelium and bacterial cells respond quickly, restoring the material's integrity. This self-repair capability not only extends the material's lifespan but also reduces maintenance costs, making it highly attractive for practical applications. Additionally, the production process of this new material offers significant environmental benefits. Traditional building materials, such as concrete, are notorious for their high carbon dioxide emissions during manufacturing. In contrast, the new material is produced at low temperatures, significantly reducing energy consumption and minimizing environmental pollution. The research team believes this innovation could play a crucial role in steering the construction industry toward more sustainable practices. According to the researchers, while the material is still in the experimental phase, its potential applications are vast. In the future, it could be widely used in civil construction, infrastructure building, and repair projects. As technology continues to advance, this living building material could herald a revolutionary shift in the construction industry, offering a greener and more durable option for a variety of applications.