Mycelium-based materials represent a promising class of bio-based alternatives to fossil- and animal-derived consumer products. Their cultivation on agricultural and industrial side streams enables circular production pathways with potentially low carbon footprints and full biodegradability at end of life. However, for these materials to achieve large-scale market integration, challenges remain in terms of perceptual characterization, end-of-use strategies, and translation into design practice.

This PhD project aims to address these challenges by focusing on the positioning and societal embedding of leather-like mycelium materials. Three main lines of investigation will guide the work: 

• Perceptual and associative characterization of mycelium samples with designers and consumers, identifying how sensory properties (e.g., gloss, texture, odor, ductility) and interpretative qualities (e.g., elegance, timelessness, professionalism) compare to plastics and natural materials, and how awareness of their biological origin influences acceptance; 
• Systemic exploration of end-of-use scenarios, testing durability and degradation under real-world conditions, and engaging value chain partners to define circular strategies for disposal, recycling, and reintegration; and 
• Material-driven design studies that combine perceptual insights and technical parameters into material profiles, experience visions, and design guidelines, which are then translated into prototypes to assess opportunities and constraints in application sectors.

Methodologically, the research integrates user-centered approaches (surveys, interviews, focus groups, workshops) with lifecycle and degradation testing, and hands-on prototyping. Anticipated outcomes include: a comprehensive perceptual-material identity framework, actionable strategies for sustainable end-of-use pathways, and design implications that strategically position mycelium either as a leather alternative or as a distinct material category. The impact of this work is to accelerate the market readiness of mycelium-based materials while ensuring their ecological viability, industrial applicability, and societal resonance.

This thesis explores the strategic integration of mycelium materials within the context of social enterprises, with a specific focus on Mivas vzw in Lier. As social economy enterprises seek sustainable opportunities for employment and production, mycelium emerges as a promising alternative aligned with their sustainability goals.

The research develops both an internal roadmap and a Minimum Viable Mycelium Ecosystem (MVME) roadmap, guiding the process from initial idea to pilot-scale production. These roadmaps were constructed through desk research and hands-on production cases, addressing technical as well as organizational aspects of implementation.

The results provide the social enterprise sector with a practical framework for innovation using mycelium composites, combining theoretical insights with applied strategies. Attention is also given to potential challenges, including process automation, organizational maturity, and the need to validate assumptions over time.