IIT Guwahati researchers turn greenhouse gases into cleaner fuel

Scientists at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati have unveiled a groundbreaking biological process to convert harmful greenhouse gases - methane and carbon dioxide - into cleaner biofuels.

The research addresses two critical global issues: reducing greenhouse gas emissions and finding sustainable alternatives to depleting fossil fuel reserves.

Led by Professor Debasish Das and Dr. Krishna Kalyani Sahoo from IIT Guwahati's Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, the team utilized a soil-friendly microorganism called Methylosinus Trichosporium. This methane-eating bacteria was used to transform methane and carbon dioxide into biomethanol under controlled conditions.

“Our innovative approach is a significant leap toward sustainable energy solutions and climate change mitigation,” said Professor Das. Currently operational on a five-litre laboratory scale, the method represents a promising step toward eco-friendly biofuel production.

Methane, a greenhouse gas 27–30 times more potent than carbon dioxide, significantly contributes to global warming. While existing chemical methods for converting these gases into liquid fuels are energy-intensive and costly, this biological process offers an efficient and environmentally friendly alternative.

“This research demonstrates that biomethanol, derived from bacteria feeding on methane and carbon dioxide, can be a viable alternative to fossil fuels,” Das added.

Unlike conventional biofuel production, which often competes with food resources, this method relies on greenhouse gases, sidestepping the “food versus fuel” debate. The process is also cost-effective, operating without expensive catalysts or the production of toxic byproducts.

The innovative two-stage process involves:

1. Capturing methane to produce bacteria-based biomass.

2. Using this biomass to convert carbon dioxide into biomethanol.

The produced biomethanol was tested as a blend with standard diesel in a four-stroke diesel engine. Results showed remarkable reductions in emissions—up to 87% for carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, hydrogen sulfide, and smoke—while enhancing fuel efficiency and engine performance compared to pure diesel.

Beyond cleaner fuels, biomethanol has industrial applications as a precursor for manufacturing chemicals like formaldehyde and acetic acid. The technology could also play a crucial role in decarbonizing industries such as oil and gas, refineries, and chemical manufacturing.

“This process has immense potential to revolutionize critical industries and contribute to a more sustainable future,” said Das.