MycoPCB - Nachhaltige Leiterplatten durch Myzelmaterialien

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are an indispensable technology present in all classes of modern electronics. Their flexible embodiments (flexPCBs) enable current and emerging form factors and drive the transition to human-centered applications. At the same time, PCBs are notoriously difficult to recycle and significantly contribute to the growth of electronic waste and an unsustainable use of resources. Recent estimates already place PCB waste at 1.2 million metric tons per year, from which two thirds are disposed of in a non-controlled and polluting manner. A paradigm change towards bioderived and biodegradable materials promises a remedy, however so far, no viable solution for sustainable (flex)PCBs exists. Our vision is to replace these practically everlasting substrates with biodegradable equivalents, significantly reducing their environmental impact during both fabrication and in the course of their (realistically inevitable) disposal in landfills or via thermal routes. This project aims to bring mycelium-based sustainable and biodegradable, yet durable flexible PCB substrates to a marketable product. However, to create a lasting impact, we need to translate this promising approach into a product ready for use by circuit board manufacturers and aim for a material that is easily transferable from lab-processes to the industry to achieve high acceptance. This holistic approach challenges us to not only provide a substrates material alternative, but also methods for sustainable flexPCB manufacturing.