Thermal and Acoustic Performance Potential of Mycelium-Based Biocomposites for Mitigating Urban Heat and Noise Islands (Accepted)


Sarul M., Koçyiğit F. B., Yılmaz Ç.

9th International Conference of Contemporary Affairs in Architecture and Urbanism, İstanbul, Turkey, 7 - 08 May 2026, pp.1, (Summary Text)

  • Publication Type: Conference Paper / Summary Text
  • City: İstanbul
  • Country: Turkey
  • Page Numbers: pp.1
  • Akdeniz University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Urban Heat Island (UHI) and Urban Noise Island (UNI) are major environmental stressors in cities, yet they are typically addressed through separate mitigation strategies. This study investigates the potential of mycelium biocomposite panels as a low-carbon material solution capable of simultaneously mitigating both phenomena through coupled thermal and acoustic performance. Previous studies report sound absorption coefficient (α) values ranging from 0.40 to 0.90 over the 500–4000 Hz frequency band, depending on panel thickness, drying and pressing parameters, and substrate type. In parallel, mycelium biocomposites exhibit thermal conductivity values of approximately 0.04–0.18 W/m·K which, together with low thermal diffusivity, indicate reduced heat transfer through building envelopes. Based on this dual performance profile, this work highlights the relevance of mycelium-based panels as an integrated sustainable material approach for the concurrent mitigation of UHI and UNI effects.