| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2020 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Biological Materials Science
|
| Presentation Title |
B-19: Structural and Mechanical Characterization of Quasi-indestructible Armillaria ostoyae Rhizomorphs |
| Author(s) |
Debora Lyn Porter, Alexander J. Bradshaw, Bryn T.M. Dentinger, Steven E. Naleway |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Debora Lyn Porter |
| Abstract Scope |
Armillaria ostoyae (Romagn.) Herink is a pathogenic species of fungus found across the globe that uses exploratory, root-like structures called rhizomorphs to seek out new sources of nutrition. These rhizomorphs, which do not react to traditional fungal control methods, infect crops and forest vegetation, resulting in significant economic and ecological losses. Little is known about the structure or mechanics of these quasi-indestructible Armillaria components. We employ imaging techniques, mechanical testing, heat and pH treatments to characterize the structure and strength of the rhizomorphs. Imaging, hardness and tensile strength testing, are used to track the changes that occur to the structure and affect the mechanical properties of the rhizomorphs after undergoing heat and pH treatment. This characterization and understanding of the rhizomorph’s intricate structure will serve as a model for bioinspired designs with high tensile strength, and also provide new insight on how A.ostoyae can effectively be managed. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: Supplemental Proceedings volume |