Protocol for the preparation of flexible material from the mycelium of wood-decay fungal strains and mechanical property investigation

Extraction of chitin-glucan-based materials from fungi has several advantages over animal-based chitin. Here, we present a protocol for extracting chitin-glucan material from the mycelium of wood-decay fungal strains and investigating its mechanical properties. We describe steps for extracting chitin-glucan-based material, using acetic acid as a crosslinking agent to improve mechanical properties, and adding glycerol to increase flexibility. We then detail procedures for investigating tear strength and elongation at break, as well as establishing the required properties of flexible materials. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Vadivel et al. 1 • A step-by-step guide to develop flexible bio-based materials • Improved mechanical properties by acetic acid and plasticizing with glycerol • Details to characterize Young’s modulus, tear strength, and elongation at break Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics. Extraction of chitin-glucan-based materials from fungi has several advantages over animal-based chitin. Here, we present a protocol for extracting chitin-glucan material from the mycelium of wood-decay fungal strains and investigating its mechanical properties. We describe steps for extracting chitin-glucan-based material, using acetic acid as a crosslinking agent to improve mechanical properties, and adding glycerol to increase flexibility. We then detail procedures for investigating tear strength and elongation at break, as well as establishing the required properties of flexible materials.