A scalable reactor system uses renewable electricity and microbes to turn carbon dioxide into methane efficiently and cost-effectively, according to a study.
In the study, led by researchers at the Pennsylvania State University, a process known as microbial electrosynthesis is used to convert renewable electricity into methane that can be stored over long periods.
This bio-electrochemical technology uses microorganisms as biocatalysts to convert carbon dioxide and electricity into useful chemicals and fuels. Using electricity from renewable sources such as solar or wind, the process offers a sustainable, low-energy way to produce fuel.
In their microbial electrosynthesis system, the researchers used renewable electricity to split water and generate hydrogen. Microorganisms then rapidly consume the hydrogen to produce methane, which can be be stored and transported using existing gas infrastructure.
Bruce Logan, professor of environmental engineering and corresponding author on the study...