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This study is focused on implementation of integrated sequential bioprocess of solid-state fermentation (SSF) for enzyme production, and then reutilization of spent SSF substrate to grow fungal mycelium for biocomposite fabrication. As conventional SSF strategies primarily target enzyme production and typically generate large quantities of spent substrates that are underutilized or discarded, limiting overall process efficiency and sustainability. SSF was performed by utilizing a substrate mixture of hardwood sawdust and wheat bran in a ratio of 75:25 (w/w) with 75% moisture content and incubated at 30 °C for 6 days. Under these conditions, the Ganoderma multipileum WRF16 produced laccase, xylanase and endoglucanase activities of 194.44 ± 4.51, 9.10 ± 0.08 and 2.34 ± 0.03 IU/mL respectively. After enzyme harvesting, the residual SSF substrate rich in fungal biomass and partially degraded fibers, was again incubated in moulds to promote further mycelial colonization and binding. The resulting mycelium-based composite (MBC) demonstrated promising material properties, including water absorption capacity of 31.53%, volume shrinkage of 12%, and compressive strength of 3.64 MPa. These results highlight the potential of combining enzyme production and biomaterial fabrication in an integrated circular bioprocess, thereby maximizing resource efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Singh et al. (Sun,) studied this question.