Mycelial structure

Abstract

To achieve the unique aesthetic appeal of lacquer while providing a mycelial structure with excellent strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance. [Solution] The mycelial structure 100 of the present invention comprises mycelium and lacquer that has permeated the mycelium. Preferably, the mycelium contains laccase enzyme. Preferably, the mycelial material 10 comprises a base 11 having mycelium and a lacquer-penetrating layer 13 in which the lacquer has permeated the mycelium, and a lacquer coating layer 20 provided on the surface of the lacquer-penetrating layer 13. Preferably, the lacquer coating layer 20 is thicker than the lacquer-penetrating layer 13. Preferably, the thickness of the lacquer coating layer 20 is 5.0 μm or more and 100.0 μm or less. Preferably, the thickness of the lacquer-penetrating layer 13 is greater than 0.0 μm and 30.0 μm or less.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mycelium structure.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, products using natural-derived materials have been demanded in the market as products with a small environmental load. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a fungal material in which a biodegradable polymer penetrates deep into the material to improve wear resistance and water resistance.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] A fungal material in which a biodegradable polymer penetrates deep into the mycelium has problems in that while its wear resistance and water resistance are improved, the material itself is hard and an excellent aesthetic appearance cannot be obtained.

[0005] Therefore, there is a demand to provide a mycelium structure that obtains the unique aesthetic appearance of lacquer and is excellent in strength, water resistance, and wear resistance.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The mycelium structure according to an application example of the present invention has a mycelium and lacquer penetrating the mycelium.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] [Figure 1] It is a schematic longitudinal sectional view showing a first embodiment of the mycelium structure of the present invention. [Figure 2]This is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view showing a second embodiment of the mycelial structure of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view showing a third embodiment of the mycelial structure of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a process diagram showing the configuration of an example of a method for producing mycelial structures. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The mycelial structure of the present invention will be described in detail below based on preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. [1] Mycelial structure The mycelial structure according to an application example of the present invention comprises mycelium and lacquer that has permeated the mycelium.

[0009] This configuration allows for the acquisition of the unique aesthetic qualities of lacquer, as well as a mycelial structure with excellent strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance.

[0010] <First Embodiment> First, a first embodiment of the mycelial structure of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view showing a first embodiment of the mycelial structure of the present invention.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, in the first embodiment, the mycelial structure 100 has a lacquer-penetrating portion 12 in which lacquer has permeated the entire mycelium. With this configuration, a mycelial structure 100 is obtained that has a superior aesthetic appearance as well as improved strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance.

[0012] [1-1] Mycelium The mycelium contains at least the mycelium of a mushroom.

[0013] [1-1-1] Mushroom mycelium Mushroom hyphae are the fibrous structures that make up the mycelium of mushrooms. The types of mushrooms are not particularly limited, but examples include Agaricus arvensis, Agrocybe brasiliensis, Amylomyces rouxii, species of the genus Amylomyces, Armillaria mellea, Aspergillus nidulans, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus oryzae, Ceriporia lacerata, Coprinus comatus, Fibroporia vaillantii, Fistulina hepatica, and Flammulina bertipes. Velutipes), Fomitopsis officinalis, Ganoderma sessile, Ganoderma tsugae, Ganoderma lucidum, Hericium erinaceus, Hypholoma capnoides, Hypholoma sublaterium, Inonotus obliquus, Lactarius chrysorrheus, Macrolepiota procera, Morchella angusticeps, Myceliophthora thermophila, Neurospora crassa Penicillium crassa), Penicillium camembertii, Penicillium chrysogenum, Penicillium rubensRubens), Phycomyces blakesleeanus, Pleurotus djamor, Pleurotus ostreatus, Polyporus squamosus, Psathyrella aquatica, Rhizopus microspores, Rhizopus oryzae, Schizophyllum commune, Streptomyces venezuelae, Stropharia rugosoannulata, Thielavia terrestris, Ustilago Examples include maydis, shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula genus), maitake mushrooms (Meripilus genus), maitake mushrooms (Grifola genus), giant gizzard shad mushrooms (Leucopaxillus genus), bracket fungi (Fomitopsis genus), matsutake mushrooms (Tricholoma genus), enoki mushrooms (Flammulina genus), kawaratake mushrooms (Trametes genus), hiirotake mushrooms (Pycnoporus genus), and tortoiseshell mushrooms (Perenniporia genus).

[0014] A mycelium is a collection of multiple mushroom hyphae. In this invention, the term "mycelium" refers not only to mycelium formed by the growth of mushroom hyphae, but also to mycelium formed by artificially assembling mushroom hyphae. In the following description, mushroom hyphae will also be simply referred to as "hyphae."

[0015] The average diameter of the hyphae is preferably set to be thinner than the average diameter of the fibers (fibers other than hyphae) described later. This makes it easier to impart a smooth texture derived from the hyphae to the mycelial structure 100.

[0016] The average diameter of the hyphae is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.1 μm or more and 10.0 μm or less, more preferably 0.3 μm or more and 5.0 μm or less. If the average diameter of the hyphae is within the above range, the aesthetics of the mycelium structure 100 can be particularly enhanced.

[0017] The average diameter of the hyphae is measured as follows. First, the mycelium structure 100 is magnified and observed to obtain an image so that 100 or more hyphae are within one image. Next, 10 or more hypha images are randomly extracted, and the width of the hypha image is measured. Then, the average value of the measured values is taken as the average diameter of the hyphae. The average diameter of the fibers (fibers other than hyphae) described later is also measured in the same manner.

[0018] The average length of the hyphae is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.001 mm or more and 3.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.010 mm or more and 2.0 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.050 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less. If the average length of the hyphae is within the above range, for example, when the mycelium structure 100 is formed into a sheet shape, the hyphae are oriented along the surface of the mycelium structure 100 and the hyphae are moderately intertwined with each other. Thereby, the aesthetics of the mycelium structure 100 can be particularly enhanced.

[0019] The average length of the hyphae is measured as follows. First, the mycelium structure 100 is magnified and observed to obtain an image so that 100 or more hyphae are within one image. Next, 10 or more hypha images are randomly extracted, and the maximum length that can be taken within the hypha image is measured. Then, the average value of the measured values is taken as the average length of the hyphae. The average length of the fibers (fibers other than hyphae) described later is also measured in the same manner.

[0020] The hyphae preferably contain chitin. Chitin is included as a component of the cell wall constituting the hyphae. Chitin is a high molecular polysaccharide having N-acetylglucosamine, to which an acetamide group is added to glucose, as a structural unit. Since chitin has a hydroxyl group, when a crosslinking agent described later is used, the hyphae are likely to be crosslinked by the crosslinking agent. Thereby, the strength, wear resistance, and water resistance of the mycelium structure 100 can be made even more excellent.

[0021] [1-1-2] Starch The mycelium may have starch. Starch is a molecule in which a plurality of α-glucose molecules are polymerized by a glycosidic bond. Starch may be a linear molecule or may contain branches. As starch, for example, those derived from various plants can be used. More specifically, for example, starches derived from cereals such as corn, wheat, and rice, beans such as broad beans, mung beans, and adzuki beans, tubers such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, and tapioca, wild grasses such as bracken and kudzu, and palms such as sago palm can be used.

[0022] The starch may be modified starch. Examples of modified starch include acetylated adipic acid crosslinked starch, acetylated starch, oxidized starch, sodium octenyl succinate starch, hydroxypropyl starch, hydroxypropyl phosphorylated crosslinked starch, phosphorylated starch, phosphate esterified phosphorylated crosslinked starch, urea phosphorylated esterified starch, sodium starch glycolate, high amylose corn starch, etc. Also, the starch may be denatured starch. Examples of denatured starch include those obtained by processing or denaturing starch, and specifically, dextrin, etc. can be mentioned.

[0023] The weight-average molecular weight of the starch is not particularly limited, but is preferably between 50,000 and 400,000, more preferably between 70,000 and 300,000, and even more preferably between 80,000 and 280,000. When the molecular weight is within this range, the mixing of starch with the plasticizer described later can be improved. As a result, even when water is absent or present in small amounts, plasticization by heating proceeds more easily, and the strength and productivity of the mycelial structure 100 can be improved.

[0024] The weight-average molecular weight of starch can be determined by measurement using gel permeation chromatography. In this case, polystyrene is used as the standard substance.

[0025] The mycelium may contain particulate starch composite particles. These starch composite particles contain at least starch and a plasticizer, as described later. The starch composite particle form allows for even distribution of starch and plasticizer. This homogenizes the mycelium, improving its abrasion resistance, water resistance, and strength. Note that the starch composite particles may also contain starch and plasticizers not present in the composite particles.

[0026] The average particle size of the starch composite particles is not particularly limited, but is preferably 1.0 μm to 60.0 μm, more preferably 1.0 μm to 50.0 μm, even more preferably 2.0 μm to 30.0 μm, and particularly preferably 2.0 μm to 20.0 μm. When the average particle size of the starch composite particles is within the above range, the dispersion state of the starch composite particles between hyphae and fibers in the mycelium tends to be more uniform, resulting in a mycelial structure 100 with even better strength, water resistance, and aesthetics.

[0027] The average particle size of starch composite particles is, for example, the particle size D50, which is the particle size when the cumulative frequency from the smaller diameter side is 50% in a volume-based particle size distribution measured by a particle size distribution analyzer that uses the laser diffraction scattering method as its measurement principle. An example of a particle size distribution analyzer is the Microtrac MT3000II manufactured by Nikkiso Co., Ltd.

[0028] Starch composite particles are formed, for example, by a spray-drying method. The spray-drying method is not particularly limited, and known methods can be used.

[0029] [1-1-3] Plasticizers The mycelium may contain a plasticizer. The plasticizer has the property of plasticizing starch. The plasticizer may preferably be contained in starch composite particles. When starch is plasticized by the plasticizer, the starch becomes thermoplastic.

[0030] Examples of plasticizers include sugar alcohols. By selecting sugar alcohols as the plasticizer, the plasticization of starch can be made easier. This makes it easier for the starch composite particles to bind together hyphae, fibers, and hyphae and fibers, thereby providing the mycelial structure 100 with better strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance.

[0031] Sugar alcohols are a type of sugar produced by the reduction of the carbonyl group of aldoses or ketoses. Examples of sugar alcohols include maltitol, lactitol, tetriitol, pentitol, hexitol, erythritol, sorbitol, xylitol, and D-mannitol. Among these, it is more preferable to use one or more selected from sorbitol, erythritol, and D-mannitol.

[0032] Sorbitol, erythritol, and D-mannitol, among sugar alcohols, can more easily induce plasticization of starch and, furthermore, do not plasticize at room temperature, thus facilitating handling during the manufacturing process and handling of the manufactured mycelium. As a result, the starch composite particles can more easily bind hyphae to each other, fibers to each other, and hyphae to fibers, thereby imparting better strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance to the mycelial structure 100.

[0033] Furthermore, polyglycerin may be used as a plasticizer. Polyglycerin is obtained by polymerizing glycerol, and its degree of polymerization is not particularly limited. In addition, any compound containing a large number of hydroxyl groups is considered to have the property of plasticizing starch, and such compounds may be used as plasticizers.

[0034] The plasticizer content is preferably 0.05 to 0.90 by mass ratio with respect to the total content of starch and plasticizer, more preferably 0.10 to 0.85, and even more preferably 0.10 to 0.80. By having a plasticizer content within the above range, the plasticization of the starch becomes more sufficient, and better strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance can be imparted to the mycelial structure 100.

[0035] [1-1-4] Crosslinking agent The mycelium may contain a crosslinking agent. The crosslinking agent may form a crosslinked structure in the mycelial structure 100. When heat is applied, the crosslinking agent reacts with the hyphae, starch, plasticizer, fibers, and hydroxyl groups contained in the lacquer described later. As a result, the crosslinking agent contributes to these crosslinks, improving the strength and water resistance of the mycelial structure 100. In particular, the crosslinking of the crosslinking agent with the hyphae can especially improve the aesthetic appearance of the mycelial structure 100.

[0036] The crosslinking agent is an organic compound having two or more carboxyl groups. The crosslinking agent is preferably contained in the starch composite particles and contributes to the good retention of the starch composite particles.

[0037] The crosslinking agent is not particularly limited as long as it is an organic compound having multiple carboxyl groups. Examples of crosslinking agents include aliphatic dicarboxylic acids such as oxalic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid, pimelic acid, suberic acid, azelaic acid, and sebacic acid; aromatic dicarboxylic acids such as phthalic acid, isophthalic acid, and terephthalic acid; dicarboxylic acids having hydroxyl groups such as tartaric acid and malic acid; tricarboxylic acids such as citric acid and aconitic acid; and amino acids having multiple carboxyl groups such as aspartic acid and glutamic acid. One or a mixture of two or more of these can be used.

[0038] The crosslinking agent is preferably one or more dicarboxylic acids selected primarily for their reactivity with hydroxyl groups. More preferably, it is one or more dicarboxylic acids selected from succinic acid, adipic acid, and sebacic acid. This allows for the formation of chemical crosslinks via ester bonds, further improving the strength, water resistance, and aesthetic appearance of the mycelium.

[0039] The crosslinking agent can form ester bonds with the hydroxyl groups present in mycelium, starch, plasticizer, fibers, and lacquer, respectively. For example, it can chemically crosslink between fibers and starch, between fibers and fibers, between starch and starch, between mycelium and fibers, between mycelium and starch, between mycelium and mycelium, between lacquer and mycelium, between lacquer and starch, and between lacquer and fibers. In particular, when both starch and plasticizer are present, such as in starch composite particles, the crosslinking agent crosslinks with the starch via the plasticizer. This improves the strength, water resistance, and aesthetics of the mycelial structure 100. Ester bonds (chemical bonds) can be confirmed by FTIR.

[0040] The crosslinking agent content is preferably 0.01 to 0.60 by mass ratio, more preferably 0.01 to 0.50, even more preferably 0.05 to 0.20, and particularly preferably 0.10 to 0.20, relative to the total content of starch, plasticizer, and crosslinking agent. By having the crosslinking agent content within the above range, the degree of chemical crosslinking described above is improved, thereby further enhancing the strength, water resistance, and aesthetics of the mycelial structure 100.

[0041] [1-1-5] Fibers other than mycelium The mycelium may also contain fibers other than hyphae (hereinafter simply referred to as "fibers"). This can further enhance the strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance of the mycelial structure 100.

[0042] The fibers used are not particularly limited, and a wide range of fiber materials can be used. Examples of fibers include natural fibers such as animal fibers and plant fibers, organic fibers, inorganic fibers, and chemical fibers such as organic-inorganic composite fibers. Specifically, examples include cellulose, silk, wool, cotton, hemp, kenaf, flax, ramie, jute, Manila hemp, sisal, coniferous trees, and broadleaf trees. These may be used individually or in appropriate mixtures. They may also be used as regenerated fibers after purification or other processes.

[0043] Examples of raw materials for the fibers include recycled paper and recycled cloth, but materials containing at least one of the above-mentioned fibers can be used. Furthermore, the fibers may be subjected to various surface treatments. The material of the fibers may be a pure substance, or it may be a material containing multiple components such as impurities, additives, and other components.

[0044] Among these, fibers containing cellulose are more preferable. Cellulose contains many hydroxyl groups in its molecular structure. Therefore, it readily reacts with crosslinking agents, making it easier to improve the strength and water resistance of the mycelial structure 100.

[0045] The average diameter of the fibers is not particularly limited, but it is preferably thicker than the average diameter of the hyphae. Specifically, it is preferably 1.0 μm or more and 100.0 μm or less, and more preferably 3.0 μm or more and 50.0 μm or less. If the average diameter of the fibers is within the above range, the strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance of the mycelial structure 100 can be particularly enhanced.

[0046] The average length of the fibers is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.001 mm to 5.0 mm, more preferably 0.002 mm to 3.0 mm, and even more preferably 0.003 mm to 2.0 mm. If the average length of the fibers is within the above range, for example, the fibers will be oriented along the surface of the mycelium and will intertwine with each other to a suitable degree. This makes it possible to particularly enhance the strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance of the mycelial structure 100.

[0047] [1-1-6] Others Mycelial bodies may be formed, for example, by mixing mycelium, starch, plasticizer, crosslinking agent, and fibers, and then heating the mixture. In particular, the starch, plasticizer, and crosslinking agent may constitute starch composite particles. Such starch composite particles are thermoplastic and also reactive due to the crosslinking agent. Therefore, heating the mixture physically binds the mycelium to itself, the mycelium to the fibers, and the fibers to each other. Furthermore, heating the mixture causes the hydroxyl groups present in the mycelium, starch, plasticizer, and fibers to react with the crosslinking agent, resulting in chemical bonding.

[0048] The mixing ratio of hyphae, fibers, and starch composite particles in the mycelium can be appropriately set according to the application and required performance of the mycelial structure 100. The mixing ratio of hyphae, fibers, and starch composite particles can be expressed, for example, as the total content of starch, plasticizer, and crosslinking agent in the mycelium, as well as the ratio of hyphae content to fiber content.

[0049] Of these, the total content of starch, plasticizer, and crosslinking agent in the mycelium is preferably 1.0% by mass or more and 90.0% by mass or less, more preferably 1.5% by mass or more and 85.0% by mass or less, even more preferably 1.5% by mass or more and 80.0% by mass or less, and particularly preferably 5.0% by mass or more and 80.0% by mass or less. If the total content of starch, plasticizer, and crosslinking agent in the mycelium is within the above range, the mixing ratio of mycelium, fiber, and starch composite particles is optimized, and sufficient strength, water resistance, and aesthetics can be obtained.

[0050] Furthermore, the mass ratio of mycelial content to fiber content is preferably 0.10 to 9.0, more preferably 0.20 to 5.0, and even more preferably 0.30 to 3.0. If the ratio of mycelial content to fiber content is within the above range, a balance can be achieved between high strength and good aesthetics in the mycelial structure 100.

[0051] Furthermore, if the mass ratio of mycelial content to fiber content falls below the lower limit, the aesthetic appearance of the mycelial structure 100 may deteriorate. On the other hand, if the mass ratio of mycelial content to fiber content exceeds the upper limit, the strength of the mycelial structure 100 may deteriorate.

[0052] Furthermore, the mycelium may contain other components. Examples of other components include stabilizers, antioxidants, UV absorbers, lubricants, flame retardants, antistatic agents, and fillers.

[0053] The content of other components in the mycelium is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10.0% by mass or less, more preferably 7.0% by mass or less, and even more preferably 5.0% by mass or less.

[0054] Furthermore, the mycelium may be treated to alter its chemical bonding by methods such as ozone treatment, deacetylation, sebacic acid, or tannins. These treatments can further improve the abrasion resistance and water resistance of the mycelial structure 100.

[0055] The shape of the mycelium is not particularly limited, but Figure 1 shows a sheet-like embodiment. The following description will focus primarily on the sheet-like embodiment.

[0056] The thickness of the mycelium is preferably 50.0 μm or more and 5.0 mm or less, more preferably 60.0 μm or more and 4.0 mm or less, and even more preferably 70.0 μm or more and 3.0 mm or less. This further improves the strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance of the mycelial structure 100.

[0057] The thickness of the mycelium is measured from photographs of the cross-sectional structure of mycelial structure 100 taken with a scanning electron microscope. The thickness of each part, as described later, is measured in the same manner.

[0058] [1-2] Lacquer penetration part The lacquer-penetrating portion 12 is the part formed when lacquer penetrates the mycelium. In this embodiment, lacquer penetrates the entire mycelium, forming the lacquer-penetrating portion 12. As a result, the lacquer-penetrating portion 12 enhances the aesthetic appearance of the mycelial structure 100 and also enhances the strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance of the mycelial structure 100.

[0059] More specifically, because mycelium has spaces between the hyphae, when lacquer is applied to the mycelium, the lacquer enters these spaces, suppressing peeling and cracking of the lacquer. This further improves the aesthetics, strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance of the mycelial structure 100.

[0060] Urushi lacquer is a natural resin processed from the sap of plants belonging to the Anacardiaceae family. Urushi lacquer is a water-in-oil emulsion that mainly contains lipid components, as well as gum (polysaccharides), nitrogenous substances (glycoproteins), laccase enzymes, and water. The laccase enzymes oxidize and polymerize the lipid components, causing it to harden and form a coating film. Mycelial structure 100 contains urushi lacquer in a hardened state.

[0061] The lipid components of lacquer vary depending on the type of Anacardiaceae plant. For example, lacquer from Japan and China contains urushiol, lacquer from Taiwan and Vietnam contains laccol, and lacquer from Thailand and Myanmar contains thitiol. However, the lacquer used in this invention is not limited to that made from sap collected from Anacardiaceae plants. For example, it may be artificial lacquer in which lipid components, protein hydrolysates, laccase enzymes, etc., are artificially blended.

[0062] Lacquer has been used as a natural paint since ancient times and possesses a unique and elegant texture. Therefore, the lacquer-impregnated portion 12, into which the lacquer has permeated, can further enhance the aesthetic appearance of the mycelial structure 100.

[0063] For the lacquer, it is preferable to use lacquer made from the sap collected from plants of the Anacardiaceae family. This results in a mycelial structure 100 with superior aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, since both the mycelium and the lacquer are naturally derived materials, the environmental impact can be reduced.

[0064] Furthermore, once lacquer hardens, it has the property of forming a tough film with excellent water resistance. Hardened lacquer also has excellent heat resistance, acid resistance, and alkali resistance. Therefore, in this embodiment, the hardening of the lacquer that has permeated the entire mycelium makes the strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance of the mycelial structure 100 even better.

[0065] The laccase enzyme necessary for hardening lacquer is generally present in the lacquer itself, but it may also be present in the mycelium. This allows the laccase enzyme contained in the mycelium to be used for hardening, thus shortening the hardening time.

[0066] Examples of mushrooms containing the laccase enzyme include white rot fungi. Examples of white rot fungi include shiitake, enoki, oyster mushrooms, maitake, kawaratake, hiirotake, and tortoiseshell mushrooms.

[0067] If the mycelium contains laccase enzymes, then even if the amount of lacquer contained in the lacquer is small, the laccase enzymes in the mycelium can be used for hardening. This allows the lacquer to harden rapidly regardless of the amount of laccase enzymes contained in the lacquer.

[0068] In this embodiment, the lacquer-penetrated portion 12 is the part in which lacquer has penetrated the entire mycelium, but it may contain some voids such as air bubbles. In that case, the porosity of the mycelium is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10.0 volume% or less, more preferably 7.0 volume% or less, and even more preferably 5.0 volume% or less.

[0069] <Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the mycelial structure of the present invention will be described. Figure 2 is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view showing a second embodiment of the mycelial structure of the present invention.

[0070] The following describes the second embodiment of the mycelial structure 100, focusing on the differences from the first embodiment, and omitting explanations of similar matters.

[0071] As shown in Figure 2, in the second embodiment, the mycelial structure 100 has a lacquer-penetrating portion 12 in which lacquer has permeated the entire mycelium, and a lacquer coating layer 20 provided on the surface of the lacquer-penetrating portion 12. With this configuration, a mycelial structure 100 is obtained that has an even better aesthetic appearance and improved strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance.

[0072] [1-3] Lacquer coating layer The lacquer coating layer 20 contains at least lacquer. Furthermore, the lacquer coating layer 20 is provided on the surface of the lacquer-penetrating portion 12, and is a portion where the lacquer has not penetrated the mycelium. As a result, the lacquer coating layer 20 has the function of improving the aesthetic appearance of the mycelial structure 100, as well as improving the strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance of the mycelial structure 100.

[0073] More specifically, the lacquer coating layer 20 provided on the surface of the lacquer-penetrating section 12 covers the unevenness of the mycelium present in the lacquer-penetrating section 12. As a result, the surface of the mycelial structure 100 becomes smoother, resulting in an even more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0074] Furthermore, because the surface of the lacquer-penetrating section 12 is coated with lacquer, cracks caused by mycelium, for example, can be suppressed, resulting in superior strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance.

[0075] The lacquer in the lacquer coating layer 20 preferably satisfies the same conditions as the lacquer in the lacquer penetration section 12 according to the first embodiment. However, the conditions of the lacquer in the lacquer penetration section 12 and the lacquer coating layer 20 may be different or the same.

[0076] The thickness of the lacquer-penetrating portion 12 and the lacquer coating layer 20 is not particularly limited. The lacquer-penetrating portion 12 may be thicker than the lacquer coating layer 20, and the lacquer coating layer 20 may be thicker than the lacquer-penetrating portion 12.

[0077] In this embodiment, the thickness of the lacquer coating layer 20 is preferably more than 0.0 μm and 130.0 μm or less, more preferably 5.0 μm or more and 100.0 μm or less, and even more preferably 10.0 μm or more and 90.0 μm or less. This further improves the strength, abrasion resistance, water resistance, and aesthetics of the mycelial structure 100.

[0078] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the thickness of the lacquer-penetrating portion 12 is preferably 50.0 μm or more and 5.0 mm or less, more preferably 60.0 μm or more and 4.0 mm or less, and even more preferably 70.0 μm or more and 3.0 mm or less. This further improves the strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance of the mycelial structure 100.

[0079] <Third Embodiment> Next, a third embodiment of the mycelial structure of the present invention will be described. Figure 3 is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view showing a third embodiment of the mycelial structure of the present invention.

[0080] The following describes the third embodiment of the mycelial structure 100, focusing on the differences from the previously described embodiment, and omitting explanations of similar matters.

[0081] As shown in Figure 3, in the third embodiment, the mycelial structure 100 comprises a mycelial material 10 consisting of a base 11 having mycelia and a lacquer-penetrating layer 13 in which lacquer has permeated the mycelia, and a lacquer coating layer 20 provided on the surface of the lacquer-penetrating layer 13. With this configuration, a mycelial structure 100 is obtained that has superior aesthetics, strength, water resistance, abrasion resistance, and superior flexibility.

[0082] [1-4] Mycelial material Mycelial material 10 refers to mycelium after undergoing the lacquer penetration and drying processes described later.

[0083] The mycelial material 10 consists of a base 11 and a lacquer-penetrating layer 13. The part of the mycelial material 10 that is not permeated with lacquer is the base 11, and the part that is permeated with lacquer is the lacquer-penetrating layer 13.

[0084] [1-4-1] Base The base 11 is the portion of the mycelial material 10 that has not been penetrated by lacquer. The base 11 supports the lacquer-penetrating layer 13 and the lacquer-coating layer 20.

[0085] The base 11 may contain components other than those described in [1-1]. For example, it may contain lacquer that has fallen off the lacquer-penetrating layer 13 after the production of the mycelial structure 100.

[0086] The content of components other than those described in [1-1] in the base portion 11 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10.0% by mass or less, more preferably 7.0% by mass or less, and even more preferably 5.0% by mass or less.

[0087] The thickness of the base 11 is preferably 50.0 μm or more and 5.0 mm or less, more preferably 60.0 μm or more and 4.0 mm or less, and even more preferably 70.0 μm or more and 3.0 mm or less. This further improves the strength, abrasion resistance and water resistance of the mycelial structure 100, as well as making it more flexible.

[0088] [1-4-2] Lacquer penetration layer In this embodiment, there is a lacquer-penetrating layer 13 which is a lacquer-penetrating part in which lacquer has penetrated the mycelium. The lacquer-penetrating layer 13 is the part of the mycelial material 10 in which lacquer has penetrated the mycelium. Infiltration of lacquer into the mycelium means that lacquer has penetrated the mycelial body which is formed by the aggregation of mycelium. The lacquer-penetrating layer 13 has the function of improving the strength, abrasion resistance and water resistance of the mycelial structure 100. Furthermore, the lacquer-penetrating layer 13 is located between the base 11 and the lacquer coating layer 20 and also has the function of connecting the two.

[0089] The lacquer-impregnated layer 13 has higher rigidity compared to the base 11 because it is permeated with lacquer. Therefore, in order to improve the flexibility of the mycelial structure 100, it is desirable for the thickness of the lacquer-impregnated layer 13 to be thinner. For this reason, the thickness of the lacquer-impregnated layer 13 is preferably greater than 0.0 μm and 30.0 μm or less, more preferably between 0.5 μm and 25.0 μm, and even more preferably between 1.0 μm and 20.0 μm. This makes it possible to improve the strength, abrasion resistance and water resistance of the mycelial structure 100 while also making it more flexible.

[0090] [1-4-3] Lacquer coating layer In this embodiment, the thickness of the lacquer coating layer 20 is preferably 5.0 μm or more and 100.0 μm or less, more preferably 8.0 μm or more and 95.0 μm or less, and even more preferably 10.0 μm or more and 90.0 μm or less. This improves the aesthetic appearance of the mycelial structure 100, as well as its strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance.

[0091] The thickness of the lacquer coating layer 20 is greater than that of the lacquer penetration layer 13. This reduces the thickness of the highly rigid lacquer penetration layer 13, thereby improving the flexibility of the mycelial structure 100.

[0092] [1-5] Others The mycelial structure 100 can be molded into various shapes depending on its intended use. More specifically, it can be molded into sheets, boards, webs, etc. Specific examples of its uses include paper, nonwoven fabrics, wallpaper, wrapping paper, colored paper, drawing paper, recording media, decorative sheets, fiberboards, filters, liquid absorbents, sound absorbers, cushioning materials, mats, and the like.

[0093] The mycelial structure 100 according to the first and second embodiments is particularly useful for building materials, alternative plastics, and the like because it has excellent strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance.

[0094] The mycelial structure 100 according to the third embodiment is particularly useful as a natural material, such as a leather substitute (alternative leather), because it has excellent strength, abrasion resistance, water resistance, and flexibility.

[0095] [2] Method for producing mycelial structures Next, we will describe an example of a method for producing the mycelial structure 100 mentioned above. Figure 4 is a process diagram showing the configuration of the method for producing a mycelial structure according to the embodiment.

[0096] The method for producing the mycelial structure 100 shown in Figure 4 comprises a mycelial preparation step S102 for preparing the mycelium, an impregnation step S104 for impregnating the mycelium with lacquer, and a drying step S106 for drying the lacquer.

[0097] [2-1] Mycelial preparation process In the mycelial preparation step S102, first, a mycelial body containing mycelium is prepared. The mycelial body is formed, for example, by gathering many mycelium and shaping or papermaking them into a sheet. The mycelial body may be in the form of a flat plate or shaped into a predetermined shape. The mycelium may be defibrated from mushroom mycelium. This allows the mycelial body to be shaped into a desired shape without being restricted by the shape of the mushroom mycelium before defibration. For defibration of mushroom mycelium, for example, a method of applying mechanical energy is used. In particular, by using a defibration machine, it is possible to defibrate the mushroom mycelium and obtain mycelium while suppressing significant damage to the mycelium. The defibration method may be a wet method, but a dry method is preferred. A dry method refers to a method of defibration in the air, such as the atmosphere, rather than in a liquid such as water. An impeller mill capable of dry defibration is preferably used as the defibration machine.

[0098] The mycelium may be formed by mixing, for example, mycelium, starch, plasticizer, crosslinking agent, and fibers, and then applying heat to the mixture. In this case, various types of agitators are used for mixing. Examples of agitators include mechanical agitators, air agitators, and ultrasonic agitators. The timing of mixing each of the above components may be the same or different for each component. For example, two or more components may be mixed simultaneously, or each component may be mixed sequentially.

[0099] Furthermore, mycelium obtained through cultivation may be used as the mycelium itself. By inoculating a culture medium with mycelial spawn and culturing it, mycelium can be obtained in which the grown hyphae spread throughout the entire culture medium.

[0100] The culture medium may be a solid medium or a liquid medium. The culture medium may contain starch, plasticizers, crosslinking agents, fibers, nutrients necessary for the growth of mushroom mycelium, gelling agents, etc. Alternatively, starch may be used as a nutrient.

[0101] In the case of solid culture media, a sheet-shaped medium may be used. This simplifies or eliminates secondary processing, allowing for the efficient production of sheet-shaped mycelium. Liquid culture media, for example, consist of starch, plasticizers, crosslinking agents, fibers, etc., dispersed in a dispersion medium such as water. When using liquid culture media, management and handling are relatively easy because the medium is in liquid form. Furthermore, since stirring and other operations are possible with liquid culture media, it is easy to achieve uniformity and accelerate cultivation.

[0102] Culture conditions such as culture temperature, culture time, and humidity are set appropriately according to the type of mycelium and culture medium.

[0103] In the mycelium obtained through cultivation, the hyphae are connected in a three-dimensional manner. This allows for greater flexibility to be imparted to the mycelial structure 100.

[0104] The resulting mycelium may be molded as needed. This allows for the production of mycelium in the desired shape.

[0105] If the mycelium contains laccase enzymes, it is preferable to perform the mycelium preparation step at a temperature of 50°C or lower. This suppresses the deactivation of the laccase enzymes and allows the enzyme activity to be maintained during the subsequent infiltration and drying steps.

[0106] [2-2] Penetration process Next, in the penetration step S104, the prepared mycelium is permeated with lacquer. The lacquer may contain any additives as needed. Examples of additives include condensing agents, antioxidants, stabilizers, and lubricants.

[0107] The method of penetration is not particularly limited, but examples include applying lacquer to the mycelium using a bar coater, dipping, blade, spray, etc., and allowing it to penetrate.

[0108] Alternatively, vacuum impregnation may be used as the penetration method. In this case, the thickness of the area to which the lacquer has penetrated can be adjusted by adjusting the degree of vacuum and the vacuum time during impregnation.

[0109] In the first embodiment, the applied lacquer penetrates the entire mycelium and does not remain on the surface of the mycelium. In the second embodiment, the lacquer penetrates the entire mycelium, and some of the lacquer remains on the surface of the mycelium. In the third embodiment, the applied lacquer penetrates a portion of the mycelium, and some of the lacquer remains on the surface of the mycelium.

[0110] [2-3] Drying process In drying step S106, the mycelium impregnated with lacquer is dried. Drying is carried out under atmospheric pressure. It is preferable to dry at a temperature of 20°C to 25°C and a relative humidity of 70%RH to 75%RH. This shortens the drying time while suppressing the formation of wrinkles on the surface of the mycelial structure 100 during drying.

[0111] In the drying process S106, the lacquer hardens as the lacquerase enzyme oxidizes and polymerizes the lipid components contained in the lacquer. As a result, the portion of the mycelium that remained on the surface without being penetrated by the lacquer becomes the lacquer coating layer 20. In the first and second embodiments, the portion of the mycelium that was penetrated by the lacquer becomes the lacquer penetration portion 12. In the third embodiment, the portion of the mycelium that was penetrated by the lacquer becomes the lacquer penetration layer 13, and the portion that was not penetrated by the lacquer becomes the base portion 11. The mycelial material 10 is composed of the base portion 11 and the lacquer penetration layer 13.

[0112] [3] Effects of the above embodiment As described above, the mycelial structure according to the embodiment comprises mycelium and lacquer that has permeated the mycelium.

[0113] This configuration allows for the acquisition of the unique aesthetic qualities of lacquer, as well as a mycelial structure with excellent strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance.

[0114] Furthermore, it is preferable that the mycelium contains laccase enzymes. With this configuration, the laccase enzyme contained in the mycelium can also be used for hardening, thus shortening the time required for the lacquer to harden.

[0115] Furthermore, the mycelial structure according to the above embodiment may have a lacquer-penetrating portion in which the lacquer has permeated the entire mycelium.

[0116] This configuration enhances the aesthetic appeal of the mycelial structure while also improving its strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance.

[0117] Furthermore, the mycelial structure according to the above embodiment may further include a lacquer coating layer provided on the surface of the lacquer-penetrating portion.

[0118] This configuration improves the aesthetic appearance of the mycelial structure, as well as enhancing its strength, water resistance, and abrasion resistance.

[0119] Furthermore, the mycelial structure according to the above embodiment may also include a mycelial material comprising a base having mycelia and a lacquer-penetrating layer in which the lacquer has permeated the mycelia, and a lacquer coating layer provided on the surface of the lacquer-penetrating layer.

[0120] This configuration yields a mycelial structure with superior aesthetics, strength, water resistance, abrasion resistance, and flexibility.

[0121] Furthermore, in the mycelial structure according to the above embodiment, it is preferable that the lacquer coating layer is thicker than the lacquer penetration layer. This configuration allows for further enhancement of the flexibility of the mycelial structure.

[0122] Furthermore, in the mycelial structure according to the above embodiment, the thickness of the lacquer coating layer is preferably 5.0 μm or more and 100.0 μm or less.

[0123] This configuration improves the aesthetic appearance of the mycelial structure, as well as enhancing its strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance.

[0124] Furthermore, in the mycelial structure according to the above embodiment, the thickness of the lacquer-penetrating layer is preferably greater than 0.0 μm and less than or equal to 30.0 μm.

[0125] This configuration allows for improved flexibility while enhancing the strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance of the mycelial structure.

[0126] Furthermore, in the mycelial structure according to the above embodiment, the thickness of the base is preferably 50.0 μm or more and 5.0 mm or less.

[0127] This configuration allows for even greater strength, abrasion resistance, water resistance, and flexibility of the mycelial structure.

[0128] Although the mycelial structure of the present invention has been described above based on preferred embodiments, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the mycelial structure according to the present invention may be obtained by replacing each part of the above embodiment with any component having a similar function, or by adding any component to the above embodiment.

[0129] Furthermore, the mycelial structure according to the present invention may be manufactured by any method and is not limited to that manufactured by the method described in the embodiments above.

[0130] Furthermore, in the mycelial structure according to the present invention, it is sufficient for the lacquer to penetrate at least a portion of the mycelium, and the penetrated portion is not limited to the portion described in the embodiments described above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0131] 10...Mycelial material, 11...Base, 12...Lacquer penetration section, 13...Lacquer penetration layer, 20...Lacquer coating layer, 100...Mycelial structure, S102...Mycelial preparation process, S104...Penetration process, S106...Drying process

Claims

1. A mycelial structure characterized by having mycelium and lacquer that has permeated the mycelium.

2. The mycelial structure according to claim 1, wherein the mycelium contains a laccase enzyme.

3. The mycelial structure according to claim 1 or 2, having a lacquer-penetrating portion in which the lacquer has permeated the entire mycelium.

4. The mycelial structure according to claim 3, further comprising a lacquer coating layer provided on the surface of the lacquer-penetrating portion.

5. A mycelial material comprising a base having mycelium and a lacquer-penetrating layer in which the lacquer has permeated the mycelium, A lacquer coating layer provided on the surface of the aforementioned lacquer penetration layer, A mycelial structure according to claim 1 or 2, having the above characteristics.

6. The mycelial structure according to claim 5, wherein the lacquer coating layer is thicker than the lacquer penetration layer.

7. The mycelial structure according to claim 5, wherein the thickness of the lacquer coating layer is 5.0 μm or more and 100.0 μm or less.

8. The mycelial structure according to claim 5, wherein the thickness of the lacquer-penetrating layer is greater than 0.0 μm and less than or equal to 30.0 μm.

9. The mycelial structure according to claim 5, wherein the thickness of the base is 50.0 μm or more and 5.0 mm or less.

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