Converting glycerol to hydrogen using MECs

Glycerol, a byproduct from biodiesel production, is a low value chemical because of excessive supplies on the global market. Current market prices in the European Union is estimated at $300 US/tonne. Glycerol can be converted into higher value chemicals using chemical, thermal and biological processes. Chemical and thermal processes are disadvantaged because they normally operate at high temperatures and pressures. In comparison, biological processes operate at low temperatures and pressures and hence, are more economically attractive. In the proposed work, a ‘microbial battery’ will be developed to produced hydrogen, a higher value chemicals, from glycerol. Our intention is to develop the technology utilizing naturally occurring microorganisms. The ‘microbial battery’ or microbial fuel cell (MFC) will consist of an anode and cathode with microorganisms growing in the cathode compartment. In this particular case, the technology is designated as a microbial electrochemical cell (MEC). By applying a small voltage, glycerol is converted into hydrogen plus other carbon byproducts.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jerald Lalman

Student:

Partner:

Inha University

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

University:

University of Windsor

Program:

Globalink Research Award