IIT Guwahati Converts Methane, CO2 Into Green Biofuel

Published in the renowned journal Fuel, the study highlights methane’s role as a greenhouse gas 27 to 30 times more potent than carbon dioxide in driving global warming. "Methane is a significant contributor to climate change," said Debasish Das, professor in the Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering at IIT Guwahati. He explained that converting methane and carbon dioxide into liquid fuels could simultaneously reduce emissions and provide renewable energy. However, existing chemical methods face challenges such as high energy requirements, prohibitive costs, and the generation of toxic by-products.

To tackle these issues, the IIT Guwahati team developed a biological process that uses methanotrophic bacteria to convert methane and carbon dioxide into bio-methanol under mild conditions. “This approach eliminates the need for expensive catalysts, avoids toxic by-products, and is more energy-efficient than traditional methods,” Das said.

The researchers achieved an impressive 87% reduction in emissions, including carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, hydrogen sulfide, and smoke. Das described the method as a breakthrough, noting its ability to transform harmful greenhouse gases into a sustainable fuel source. Unlike conventional biofuels derived from crops, which create competition with food production, this method uses non-agricultural inputs, sidestepping the "food vs. fuel" debate.

“This process is both environmentally and economically viable, utilizing inexpensive and abundant resources,” Das emphasized. Beyond its role as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels, bio-methanol also holds significant industrial potential. It can serve as a precursor in manufacturing chemicals like formaldehyde and acetic acid, making it a versatile solution for various applications.

Das underscored the broader implications of this research, stating, “The biological conversion of methane and carbon dioxide into bio-methanol can decarbonize industries such as oil and gas, refineries, and chemical manufacturing.” This advancement not only contributes to global emission reduction goals but also represents a sustainable pathway for energy production.

By leveraging low-cost inputs and eco-friendly processes, IIT Guwahati’s innovation provides a scalable solution to the dual challenges of climate change and energy security. This research stands as a testament to the potential of biotechnology in building a cleaner and greener future, addressing pressing environmental issues while promoting renewable energy alternatives.

(This article is a reworked version of a PTI feed.)