Bioinspired living coating system for regenerative and circular architecture

Materials exposed outdoors are prone to various deterioration processes. Architectural coatings are designed to protect surfaces against environmental and biotic degradation and/or to provide a decorative layer. Common surface treatments often include mineral oil binders and other ingredients that are known to have negative impacts on the environment. An alternative bioinspired concept for materials protection based on fungal biofilm is under development. This paper presents the first results related to the bioreceptivity of building materials and the initial steps of natural biofilm formation.