Renewable Energy Synthesis System

Abstract

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed a novel system for acetoin and 2,3-butanediol synthesis from carbon dioxide.

Full Description

Growing energy demands has caused an interest in the production of fuels and chemicals from renewable resources. Current methods of producing renewable energies involve converting biomass into biochemicals. These methods include the use of harsh chemical pretreatments and result in toxic byproducts and large land-use requirements.

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed a novel system for the synthesis of bioproducts from carbon dioxide. The processes uses photosynthetic cyanobacteria to convert light and CO₂ into acetoin and 2,3-butanediol. This renewable photosynthetic microbial platform possesses photosynthetic efficiency 2-4 times higher than plants and greater genetic malleability. Cyanobacteria also have quicker growth rates and do not compete with food crops for land usage.

Applications

• Production of acetoin and 2,3-butanediol from CO₂

Features/Benefits

• Environmentally sustainable/friendly
• Renewable
• Efficient petroleum alternative
• Does not compete with food crops for land usage
• Reduces petroleum dependency
• Reduces carbon emissions

Patent Status