Mykor uses biotechnology to produce insulation from industrial residues and mycelium, aiming to decarbonise the construction industry. The startup's first product, MykoFoam, is an acoustic and thermal insulation panel made entirely from renewable, mycelium-based industrial residues.
MykoFoam has undergone rigorous testing in certified laboratories and competes both economically and physically with conventional insulation materials, such as natural fibres and mineral wool. It can cost up to 35% less than other environmentally friendly insulation products, while offering superior thermal performance and enhanced fire resistance compared to other sustainable alternatives. With a patent pending, the Mykor insulation sheet is designed exclusively for interior applications.
Founded in 2021 by Olivia Page and Valentina Dipietro, a Sicilian recognised in Forbes 30 Under 30 and named a UN Young Champion of the Earth, Mykor was created to meet the growing demand for zero-emission building insulation. As Dipietro explains, “Mykor materials recreate the feeling of being in nature even indoors, translating into home products, furniture, and lighting. Mushroom mycelium has been utilised to bind wood waste with natural dyes. The mushroom strains bond the waste material and, under the right environmental conditions, grow within four weeks. This process involves minimal water use, as they dry naturally in the air”.
The company's research and development team, comprising materials scientists and biotechnology engineers, is based in Bristol, UK. Meanwhile, the pilot factory, inaugurated last December, is located in Montemor-O-Novo, Portugal. This facility utilises industrial residues sourced from the nearby Alentejo region and is powered by over 75% solar energy.
Supported by Innovate UK and Horizon Europe, the company raised £825,000 last year in a pre-seed funding round led by Sustainable Ventures and Green Angel Ventures. As one of the winners of The Green Tech Fund 2024, Mykor has recently begun an acceleration process with the Holcim MAQER Ventures Accelerator.
Name:
Mykor
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Sector:
Construction
Plus:
Digital design and bio-fabrication of building elements inspired by nature
Features:
Insulators based on industrial residues and mycelium powered by biotechnology
This article is also available in Italian / Questo articolo è disponibile anche in Italiano
Images: © Mykro