Room: King Willem Alexander
Date: Wednesday, 20 May 2026
Time: 11:30 - 12:45 CEST
Session code 1BO.4
Integrated agricultural management practices - A contribution to sustainability
Synthesis and Characterization of Agar-Based Nanocomposite Films Reinforced with Cellulose Nanofibers as a Growing Medium for Mushrooms
Short Introductive summary
This study aims to evaluate agar–CNF nanocomposite films as an active growth media for Pleurotus ostreatus. By leveraging agar–CNF films’ structural integrity, moisture regulation, and biodegradability, we hope to determine whether they can support healthy mycelial expansion, reduce contamination risk, and offer a sustainable alternative to conventional agar plates or plastic substrates. This exploration bridges the gap between material performance and practical cultivation utility, opening avenues for eco-friendly, functional substrates tailored to mushroom biotechnology.
Presenter
Fildah AYAA
University of Pretoria, Chemical Engineering Dpt., SOUTH AFRICA
Presenter's biography
Ayaa is a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Pretoria and lecturer at Makerere University. Her research focuses on sustainable use of natural materials, promoting eco-friendly technologies, innovation, and community-driven solutions that empower women and youth globally.
Biographies and Short introductive summaries are supplied directly by presenters and are published here unedited
Co-authors:
N Ndwandwa, University of Pretoria, SOUTH AFRICA
F. Ayaa, University of Pretoria, SOUTH AFRICA
M. Daramola, University of Pretoria, SOUTH AFRICA
Session reference: 1BO.4.5