IIT Guwahati develops technology to convert methane, carbon dioxide into biofuel
IIT Guwahati's Breakthrough: Turning Methane and CO2 into Clean Biofuels
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati have developed a new biological method to convert harmful gases like methane and carbon dioxide into cleaner biofuels. This innovative process uses methanotrophic bacteria, specifically Methylosinus trichosporium, to produce bio-methanol under mild conditions.
Addressing Global Challenges
The study, led by Prof Debasish Das and Dr Krishna Kalyani Sahoo, tackles two major global issues: the environmental impact of greenhouse gases and the depletion of fossil fuels. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, significantly contributes to global warming. The new method offers a sustainable way to reduce emissions and create renewable energy.
Innovative Biological Process
Unlike traditional chemical methods, this biological process is energy-efficient, cost-effective, and avoids toxic by-products. It involves capturing methane to generate bacteria-based biomass, which is then used to convert carbon dioxide into methanol. The process has been optimized to improve gas solubility, enhancing methanol yields.
Testing and Results
The bio-methanol produced was blended with diesel and tested in a four-stroke diesel engine. Results showed up to 87% reduction in emissions like carbon monoxide and smoke, and improved fuel efficiency compared to pure diesel.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
Prof Debasish Das highlighted the environmental and economic viability of this method, which avoids the 'food vs. fuel' issue by using greenhouse gases instead of crops. The process also has industrial applications, offering potential to decarbonize industries like oil and gas.
Doubts Revealed
IIT Guwahati
IIT Guwahati is one of the top engineering colleges in India, located in the city of Guwahati in the state of Assam. It is known for its research and innovation in various fields of science and technology.
Methane
Methane is a type of gas that is found in natural gas and is also produced by cows and other animals. It is a greenhouse gas, which means it can trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to global warming.
CO2
CO2 stands for carbon dioxide, which is a gas that we breathe out and is also released when we burn fossil fuels like coal and petrol. It is another greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
Biofuels
Biofuels are fuels made from living things or their waste. They are considered cleaner than fossil fuels because they can reduce pollution and are renewable.
Methanotrophic bacteria
Methanotrophic bacteria are special types of bacteria that can eat methane and use it to grow. They help in converting methane into useful products like bio-methanol.
Bio-methanol
Bio-methanol is a type of alcohol that can be used as a fuel. It is made from natural sources like methane and is considered more environmentally friendly than traditional fuels.
Greenhouse gas emissions
Greenhouse gas emissions are gases released into the air that trap heat and make the Earth warmer. Common examples include carbon dioxide and methane.
Fossil fuel depletion
Fossil fuel depletion means that the natural resources like coal, oil, and gas that we use for energy are running out because we are using them faster than they can be replaced.
Emission reductions
Emission reductions refer to the decrease in the amount of harmful gases released into the air, which can help in reducing pollution and slowing down climate change.
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