This document discusses the potential of mycelium bricks as a sustainable and cost-effective building material for rural housing in India. Mycelium bricks are eco-friendly, light, and strong, made from organic waste, and could provide a solution to the prevalent issues of unstable kutcha houses. Challenges such as scaling up production and establishing standards need to be addressed for wider adoption of this innovative material.

1. Mycelium Brick for
Rural Houses
This presentation explores the potential of mycelium bricks as a
sustainable and cost-effective building material for rural houses
in India.
by
A. SRIKANTH (212609)
YASHDEEP (212622)

2. The Need for
Sustainable Housing
Kutcha Houses
Many rural houses in India are made of kutcha
materials like mud, unburnt bricks, and bamboo. These
houses are often unstable, prone to damage, and
require frequent repairs.
Environmental Impact
Traditional brick production is energy-intensive and
contributes to deforestation and pollution. There is
a growing need for eco-friendly alternatives.

3. Mycelium: A Natural
Building Material
Mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, is a natural adhesive
that binds together organic waste materials like straw and sawdust.
Mycelium bricks are grown at room temperature, requiring less
energy than traditional brick production.

4. Advantages of
Mycelium Bricks
1 Eco-Friendly
Mycelium bricks are
biodegradable and made
from readily available
waste materials.
2 Cost-Effective
The raw materials for
mycelium bricks are
inexpensive and
readily available in
rural areas.
3 Lightweight
Mycelium bricks are lighter
than traditional bricks,
making them easier to
transport and handle.
4 Strong
When combined with clay
and lime, mycelium
bricks can achieve
compressive strength
comparable to traditional
bricks.

5. Mycelium Brick
Production
Proces
s
1
Sterilization
The substrate material (straw or sawdust) is sterilized to
eliminate harmful microbes.
2
Inoculation
Mycelium spawn is introduced to the sterilized
substrate.
3
Growth
The mycelium grows through the substrate, binding it
together.
4
Drying
The mycelium brick is dried to stop growth and harden
the material.

6. Experimental
Results
Trial Substrate Compressive
Strength (N/mm2)
1 Sawdust No growth
2 Straw Not hard enough
for brick
3 Sterilized Straw 0.3 to 0.5
4 Sterilized Straw,
Clay, Lime
3.5 to
3.8

7. Mycelium Brick Applications
Non-Engineering Structure
Mycelium bricks are suitable for
building walls, partitions, and
other non-load-bearing structures.
Roofing
Mycelium bricks can be used
for roofing applications,
providing insulation and
durability.
Landscaping
Mycelium bricks can be used for
creating decorative elements
and pathways in gardens.

8. Challenges and Future Directions
Scaling Up Production
Developing efficient and cost-effective methods for large-scale production of mycelium bricks is crucial.
Standardization
Establishing Indian Standards for mycelium bricks is necessary to ensure quality and safety.
Research and Development
C ontinuous research is needed to optimise the properties of mycelium bricks and explore new applications.

9. Mycelium: A
Promising Future
1
2
3
4
Sustainable
Building
Resource
Efficiency
Waste
Reduction
Environmental
Protection

10. Conclusion
Mycelium bricks offer a promising solution for sustainable and affordable housing in rural India. They are eco-friendly,
cost- effective, and have the potential to improve the lives of people in rural communities.
Further research and development are needed to overcome challenges and fully realize the potential of this
innovative building material.

11. THANK
YOU