Over the past decade, architecture has begun to show a new emphasis on bio-integrated systems of design and material production. The use of biomaterials as building components can 1) decrease the amount of construction and demolition waste generated, 2) eliminate the reliance on fossil fuels during material manufacturing, and 3) reduce the embodied carbon required for construction. This research intends to generate a more holistic understanding of mycelium-based composites, a biomaterial derived from fungus, and assess its viability for the use as noise control materials. Mycelium-based composites offer a new paradigm of material manufacturing, utilizing waste streams for the growth of the material, requiring little energy to manufacture, and decomposing at the end of its life cycle. This matter-generating process of biofabrication opposes traditional means of material production and extraction through a low impact approach.

The following research consists of three interrelated subprojects: 1. Acoustic Absorption Experimentation, 2. Mechanical Tests, and 3. Physical Prototypes.