Fungi Lumen
Global candle production reaches billions annually, with each cotton wick weighing between 0.5 and 2 grams. This results in at least 5 million kilograms of cotton being produced every year solely for candle wicks. However, cotton farming is highly resource-intensive, requiring significant water consumption while contributing to ecosystem pollution and generating carbon emissions.
Mycelium wicks could offer a low-impact, eco-friendly alternative, requiring minimal water and no chemicals during cultivation. Their fibrous structure and natural porosity enable efficient absorption and transportation of melted wax to the flame, optimizing burning efficiency. Additionally, mycelium wicks have the potential for a cleaner burn, producing less soot and improving air quality. Highly customizable, they can be easily grown into various shapes and sizes to enhance performance and sustainability.
Open House
The annual showcase by the Design Engineering Society, displaying work from all groups within the Dyson School of Design Engineering. Hosted at Imperial College London’s Main Entrance on Exhibition Road, this event allows students to show their ongoing projects to the public.
The annual showcase by the Design Engineering Society, displaying work from all groups within the Dyson School of Design Engineering. Hosted at Imperial College London’s Main Entrance on Exhibition Road, this event allows students to show their ongoing projects to the public.
Development
The cultivation process for this project took place in a controlled and sanitised environment in the Natural Matters Lab. After the full mycelium growth process, the samples were oven-dried at a low temperature to stop further growth and preserve the material.
To evaluate performance, candles were produced using various wax and wick combinations and then burned to measure two key variables: average flame height and the time required for the top wax layer to melt - both essential indicators of candle quality. Testing revealed that soy wax paired with a 1cm mycelium wick provided the most efficient burn.