MycoAir: Mycelium Air Filtration for the London Underground

Air pollution in the London Underground exceeds safe limits by 46 times, posing significant health risks (Saunders). We propose a mycelium-based air filtration system to reduce particulate matter (PM). Previous studies highlight mycelium’s potential as an air purifier. Its porous structure enables PM accumulation, with overall material porosity being more critical than surface micro-morphology (Lee). MycoAir is a mycelium-based architectural system designed to channel and purify air in the Underground. The system uses mycelium tiles to filter PM ranging from 1 to 10 µm. Tests showed higher PM collection in mycelium samples compared to standard Underground materials. The tiles are grown using a recycled paper-pulp substrate sourced from Underground waste bins. This process reduces energy use, repurposes waste, and requires minimal maintenance—offering a low-cost alternative to the existing HVAC system (Kershaw). Designed for maximum surface area, the tiles optimize PM capture. Computational fluid dynamics models simulate air movement caused by arriving trains, directing polluted air over the tiles. A robotic, low-cost fabrication method supports easy scalability. A novel testing protocol measures PM captured by different materials. The modular tile system functions as interior cladding for walls and ceilings on platforms. Panels are grown in molds and easily installed with hand tools. At end of life, they are removed, rehydrated, and regrown—creating a circular, regenerative cycle (Haneef). This ensures ongoing PM sequestration within the fungal network while maintaining affordability and ease of deployment.