Mushroom-derived electronics have been discovered as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional electronic devices. Scientists at Austria’s Johannes Kepler University Linz accidentally found that the reishi mushroom has a tough outer skin that can be removed and dried to create a robust and flexible material. This mushroom-based material can withstand high temperatures and completely biodegrades when discarded. It is hoped that this material, known as “MycelioTronic,” can be used as a substrate for printed circuit boards in flexible electronic devices, providing a solution to the difficulties in recycling traditional polymer substrates. Additionally, the material could be used in medical implants that dissolve harmlessly within the body. The researchers have already built functional sensors using this material and are working towards creating a fully biodegradable circuit board.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mushroom-derived electronics | Shift from non-biodegradable | Biodegradable electronics becoming common | Sustainable and eco-friendly materials |
| Tough mushroom skin used as substrate | Shift from polymer substrates | Increased use of mushroom-based substrates | Environmental concerns and recycling |
| Potential use in medical implants | Shift towards biodegradable | Biodegradable medical implants available | Reduction of medical waste |
| Functional sensors built on substrate | Shift towards biodegradable | Biodegradable electronic components | Sustainable and eco-friendly materials |
| Research published in Science Advances | Shift in research focus | Increased focus on biodegradable electronics | Environmental concerns and innovation |