Liquid Fuel from Heat-Loving Microorganisms

Liquid Fuel from Heat-Loving Microorganisms


Program:
Electrofuels
Award:
$3,149,561
Location:
Raleigh, North Carolina
Status:
ALUMNI
Project Term:
07/01/2010 - 12/31/2014

Technology Description:

North Carolina State University (NC State) is working with the University of Georgia to create electrofuels from primitive organisms called extremophiles that evolved before photosynthetic organisms and live in extreme, hot water environments with temperatures ranging from 167-212 degrees Fahrenheit. The team is genetically engineering these microorganisms so they can use hydrogen to turn carbon dioxide directly into alcohol-based fuels. High temperatures are required to distill the biofuels from the water where the organisms live, but the heat-tolerant organisms will continue to thrive even as the biofuels are being distilled—making the fuel-production process more efficient. The microorganisms don't require light, so they can be grown anywhere—inside a dark reactor or even in an underground facility.

Potential Impact:

If successful, NC State would create a liquid transportation fuel that is cost competitive with traditional gasoline-based fuels and 10 times more efficient than existing biofuels.

Security:

Cost-competitive electrofuels would help reduce U.S. dependence on imported oil and increase the nation's energy security.

Environment:

Widespread use of electrofuels would help limit greenhouse gas emissions and reduce demands for land, water, and fertilizer traditionally required to produce biofuels.

Economy:

A domestic electrofuels industry could contribute tens of billions of dollars to the nation's economy. Widespread use of electrofuels could also help stabilize gasoline prices—saving drivers money at the pump.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Ramon Gonzalez
Project Contact:
Prof. Robert Kelly
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
rmkelly@eos.ncsu.edu

Partners

University of Georgia

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Release Date:
02/07/2009