Breaking News

Wednesday 30 July 2014

3D Printing With Fungus

One of the more intriguing ways that 3D printing is being used to create art has been developed by a Dutch artist named Eric Klarenbeek. He has gone beyond using the standard heated plastic or powdered metal to create 3D printed objects. He has found a way to use fungus to create objects like chairs that are not only durable, but also compostable.



The way it works is that Klarenbeek grinds up straw and mixes it with Mycelium fungus. The result is a filament that can be used just like any other material in a FDM printing, but with a twist. Unlike plastic or metal, the combination straw/fungus material does not need to be heated as it is used in the additive manufacturing process.

Once the object is printed, Klarenbeek soaks it with water and sets it aside. The fungus grows, replacing the water, and creates an object that is much like cork.

The next step is to create an outer shell using bio plastic and then placing the straw/fungus object in it. The Mycelium continues to grow and, in a couple of days, creates a structurally sturdy object.

Klarenbeek claims that this technique can be used to 3D print just about any object, from small figurines, to furniture such as tables and chairs, to eve an entire house. The results are literally manufactured products made with a living organism.

A house made of what is essentially the same stuff that mushrooms are made of would be a fascinating thing to see. In any case Klarenbeek may have found a way to create products for people who are both technologically savvy and environmentally sensitive.

For more 3d printing News Visit http://3dprinting.org/3dnews

1 comment:

  1. Interesting post. I am looking for blogs related Offset Printing Service in India.
    Its looks good but it needs more clarifications. Thank you for your post.





    ReplyDelete

Designed By Published.. Blogger Templates