MYCELIUM
The mycelium incubator is a contained system, which propagates the growth of mycelium. Mycelium is the fast growing hyphae root system of mushrooms, which creates a plastic/foam like material. It can be mixed with waste produce, such as coffee grounds, and grown into forms. By creating bio based alternatives to harmful materials such as plastic, we can enter into a new bio era where we grow what we consume, making us symbiotic with our environment and reducing our negative impact.
Jessica Gregory
L I F E S P A N
...
2017
Materials created to last a
product's intended use time
The use of virgin plastic and other harmful materials contributes to the adverse effect on nature. With developments in material science, there is now a possibility to replace these harmful virgin materials with bio based alternatives. LIFE-SPAN produces materials which reverse the notion of long lasting use. Instead, materials are created with the prospect of biodegrading once a product’s intended use period is over. For example, a toothbrush takes an estimated 10,000 years to degrade. LIFE-SPAN’s mouthcleaner however, is made from coconut derivatives with properties of hard plastic. This material biodegrades after three months of use, which is the recommended maximum use of time for a toothbrush before it cultures harmful bacteria. Coconut is an excellent alternative for a tooth cleaning device as it is particularly effective at killing oral bacteria. The material itself is extremely hard and durable. The process of making involves creating a viscous solution which is poured into a shaped mould or made into a sheet and cut before solidifying. The solution air dries quickly, but takes a number of days to fully harden. When exposed to water its 3 month life-span begins.
