There is a great need for an efficient production of biofuels without the use of agricultural inputs. Genetically modified organisms that can to create these chemical species using their own machinery have been investigated as a potential solution to fulfill this growing demand. This invention describes a method to efficiently generate biofuels and other chemicals using iron-oxidizing bacteria. These genetically modified bacteria are able to couple to electrochemical process to convert electricity, water, and carbon dioxide (CO2) into biofuels. A bioreactor containing the iron-oxidizing bacteria fix CO2, powered by media rich in ferrous ions. This electron source is oxidized into ferric ions by the organisms, which can then be regenerated electrochemically before being reintroduced into the reactor for continuous fuel production.
Alternative methods to generate biofuels currently use ammonia-oxidizing organisms, which are difficult to perform and expensive. This technology uses the electrochemical conversion of ferric ions back to ferrous ions which is a relatively simpler process and more cost-effective. By utilizing this process, the technology can potentially lead to substantial decreases in electrical power requirements. Additionally these bacteria thrive in conditions where most others cannot, yielding a decreased cost to maintain the genetically engineered colony.
Media additives supplement the system and have been shown to support efficient cell growth at optimal pH levels along with increased iron concentrations. From this fuel source, insoluble ferric ions were demonstrated be converted to soluble ferrous ions using a laboratory bioreactor.
Patent Pending (WO/2012/116359)
Available for licensing and sponsored research support
Tech Ventures Reference: IR M11-049
Further Information: Columbia | Technology Ventures Email: TechTransfer@columbia.edu