Tag: BREAKTHROUGH IN BIOHYDROGEN AND CO₂ CONVERSION

Researchers at CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) successfully produced biohydrogen (bioH₂) from food waste and developed an efficient CO₂ conversion method. Biohydrogen (BioH₂) Production from Food Waste Process: Food waste undergoes microbial fermentation in an upflow reactor with a self-regulating buffering system. Optimizes bioH₂ yield while minimizing methane (CH₄) & CO₂ emissions compared to traditional biogas production. Key Features: Anaerobic fermentation (without oxygen) by microorganisms (bacteria/yeast) releases energy. Addresses waste management and clean energy needs, contributing to net-zero targets. CO₂ Conversion into Ethanol & Acetic Acid Study by CSIR-IICT’s Chief Scientist developed a more sustainable CO₂ conversion method. Traditional Method: Requires H₂ to convert CO₂ into methane, ethanol, or acetic acid. New Method: Uses a High-Pressure Gas Fermentation (HPGF) reactor. No need for external H₂, making it energy-efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable. Higher yields of ethanol & acetic acid, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. What are Biofuels? Definition: Hydrocarbon fuels produced from organic matter (living or once-living material) in a short period. Forms: Solid: Wood, dried plants, manure. Liquid: Bioethanol, biodiesel. Gaseous: Biogas. Uses: Substitute for diesel, petrol, and other fossil fuels in transport, energy, and heating. Why Shift to Biofuels? Rising oil prices. Greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels. Economic benefits for farmers. Different Categories of Biofuels 1. First-Generation Biofuels Made from food sources (sugar, starch, vegetable oil, animal fats). Examples: Bioalcohols, biodiesel, vegetable oil, biogas. Issues: Food vs. Fuel Debate – increases food prices. 2. Second-Generation Biofuels Produced from non-food crops or agricultural waste (husks, wood chips, fruit peels). Examples: Cellulose ethanol, biodiesel. Advantages: Lower impact on food economy. Lower greenhouse gas emissions than first-generation biofuels. Challenges: Complex production processes. 3. Third-Generation Biofuels Derived from microorganisms like algae. Example: Butanol. Benefits: Grown on non-arable land, reducing water stress. Drawback: Fertilizer use may lead to environmental pollution. 4. Fourth-Generation Biofuels Genetically modified crops absorb more carbon, converted into fuel using second-gen techniques. Carbon-negative: Absorbs more CO₂ than it emits. Process: Fuel is pre-combusted. Carbon is captured and stored underground (geo-sequestration). Advantages of Biofuels Renewable – Derived from biomass. Diverse Sources – Produced from crop waste, manure, municipal waste. Lower Carbon Emissions – Less pollution than fossil fuels. Energy Security – Reduces dependence on foreign oil. Economic Benefits – Creates jobs in rural areas & supports farmers. Disadvantages of Biofuels Lower Efficiency – Some biofuels (e.g., ethanol) produce less energy than fossil fuels. High Production Cost – Requires large land area and resources. Food vs. Fuel – May lead to higher food prices & shortages. Water Consumption – Intensive irrigation can strain water resources. Way Forward Promote biofuels in transport to reduce crude oil imports. Encourage sustainable biofuel production from wastelands & municipal waste. Support rural & agricultural development through biofuel crops. Develop community-based biofuel programs for local economic benefits.

Tag: BREAKTHROUGH IN BIOHYDROGEN AND CO₂ CONVERSION

BREAKTHROUGH IN BIOHYDROGEN AND CO₂ CONVERSION

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