Bioelectrosynthesis of Ethanol via Bioelectrochemical Systems: Future Perspectives

Authors:
  • LGLeopoldo Javier Ríos Gonzâlez
    Leopoldo Javier Ríos Gonzâlez
  • MMMiguel Angel Medina Morales
    Miguel Angel Medina Morales
  • MGMónica Margarita Rodriguez Garza
    Mónica Margarita Rodriguez Garza
  • IDIleana Mayela María Moreno Dávila
    Ileana Mayela María Moreno Dávila
  • TMThelma Karina Morales Martínez
    Thelma Karina Morales Martínez
  • JGJosé Antonio Rodríguez de la Garza
    José Antonio Rodríguez de la Garza
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Abstract
Microbial electrosynthesis has gained much attention in the last decade in the scientific community due to that this novel process allows the production of commodity chemicals sustainably. MES (Microbial electrosynthesis cell), as commonly referred to as this technology, is a bioelectrochemical system that utilizes the reducing power generated from the anodic oxidation to produce high value-added products in the cathode. When coupled with a renewable source of electricity and organic or inorganic substances to produce biofuels, such as alcohols (ethanol, butanol, etc.), significant advantages stand out, such as the avoidance of fossil fuels to provide the energy that drives the 446process and food crops that serve as feedstock. The present chapter will give an insight into the novel perspectives of bioethanol production through bioelectrosynthesis as well as the more recent and relevant developments in MES technology for this purpose.