MYCOVOGUE: AN EFFECTIVE FABRICATION OF BIO LEATHER BY UP- CYCLING MUSHROOM PADDY WASTE

Traditional leather production causes serious environmental problems, including excessive water consumption, harmful chemical treatments, and greenhouse gas emissions, which has increased the need for safer and more sustainable alternatives. Fungal mycelium is a promising option because it is renewable, grows rapidly, and naturally decomposes in the environment. In this study, bio-leather was produced from fungal mycelium cultivated on lignocellulosic agricultural waste, allowing efficient use of biomass while reducing environmental impact. The fungus was grown under controlled temperature and moisture conditions until a thick and uniform mycelial mat was formed. After the substrate was fully colonized, the lignocellulosic agricultural residue was dried, and treated to improve flexibility. The final material had a

leather-like texture and showed sufficient strength for light-use applications. Its chemical composition and structural properties were analysed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). FTIR results showed absorption peaks corresponding to chitin, polysaccharides, and proteins in the mycelium structure, while XRD patterns indicated a partially crystalline arrangement related to chitin fibres that support mechanical strength. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using the phosphomolybdenum assay and demonstrated moderate total antioxidant capacity. Protein analysis confirmed the presence of structural proteins that contribute to firmness and binding within the material. Overall, the developed mycelium bio-leather was lightweight, flexible, and environmentally friendly because it avoided toxic tanning processes. Compared to animal-derived and synthetic leather, this material provides a more sustainable production method by using agricultural residues and requiring less energy. The findings suggest that mycelium-based bio-leather can serve as a practical and eco-friendly alternative for accessories, packaging, and biodegradable products, although further improvements in growth conditions and post-processing methods may enhance durability and support large-scale production.