Hemp Fiber and Mycelium-Based Composite Material Reinforced with Metal Wire Mesh and Method of Preparation

This invention relates to the field of bio-based composite materials produced by using fungal mycelium as a natural binding agent for lignocellulosic plant substrates. The composite material is obtained by allowing fungal mycelium to colonize a fibrous plant-based substrate. The mycelium, derived from selected fungal species, develops an interconnected hyphal network that acts as a natural matrix, binding the plant particles into a strong and cohesive structure without the need for synthetic adhesives. The plant substrate may consist of hemp fibres, hemp wool, or agricultural straw. To improve the mechanical performance of the material, the composite panels are reinforced with a centrally embedded stainless-steel wire mesh.