Mixotrophy Tested in Acetogens for Efficient Biofuel Production

University of Delaware researchers have identified a promising blend of bacteria and synthesize gas that is capable of producing much more acetone than other methods while avoiding the carbon dioxide emissions.

Acetogens are anaerobic bacteria that take carbon dioxide and hydrogen gas and convert them into chemicals such as acetone, butanol or ethanol. Researchers tested how Clostridium ljungdahlii would do with mixotrophy, the use of two sources of fuel for the fermentation process, in this case, sugars and synthetic gas. The bacteria consumed both sugar and gas, gave off no carbon dioxide, and produced 38% more acetone than the previous maximum.

The project could lead to significant advances in biofuel production from sources that do not add to the planet's carbon pollution. The work was conducted in partnership with White Dog Labs Incorporated, a young biotechnology firm.