Syngas electrofermentations for efficient conversion of lignocellulose into biofuels

Research Project, 2017 – 2018

The project aims at promoting the concept of a sustainable biobased economy by solving dead-end challenges that thermochemical and biochemical processes are facing. A radically new concept based on biomass gasification and syngas fermentation is suggested, to produce renewable fuels of high importance to the Swedish energy sector. Syngas fermentations can deliver full exploitation of the carbon present in biomass, however scientific challenges persist. This project will focus on overcoming major obstacles related to insufficient alcohol yields and syngas conversion rates, and also process inhibition. To achieve industrially relevant yields and rates we will apply a novel approach based on electrochemically assisted fermentations and metabolic engineering, targeting higher and more efficient availability of redox power. The unique competences we have at Chalmers on Energy Technology and Industrial Biotechnology will allow us to test this new concept under real syngas conditions.