incube
Peer Kohlmorgen
Peer Kohlmorgen works on mycelium composites, which are already playing an increasingly important role as organic alternatives to synthetic materials. The fungus-based materials aim to use and enhance local resources to take circular economy and sustainable products to the next level. The project uses mycelium - the "root system" of fungi - as a product material. The fungal spores, added to an organic mixture, such as seaweed or sawdust, grow together to form a stable mesh within 5-7 days. With this, almost any shapes can be filled and designed. Growing organisms open up new usage scenarios, while biological production processes replace conventional ones. Myzelium is a versatile organic building material, the fungal material can be similar in some of its properties to polystyrene - rigid foam (EPS), but unlike the latter it is flame retardant. It is impact resistant and has good sound absorption as well as insulation values. In order to increase the social acceptance of the new material, well-designed, exemplary products are required. The design language should increase acceptance, which is achieved through accessibility and interaction and promoted through public presence. The goal of Incube is to experimentally explore the diversity of mycelia in order to open up new design application areas. Currently, Peer is working with Alexander Ruckhaber as a fungi expert at Strand Fabrik to establish a product-based manufacturing facility for sound-absorbing sheet materials and fruiting bodies.