Stanford scientists discover how microbes acquire electricity in making methane (Stanford University)

(Source: Stanford University) Stanford Report, May 18, 2015 New findings by Stanford engineering Professor Alfred Spormann and colleagues could pave the way for microbial "factories" that produce renewable biofuels and chemicals. By Mark Shwartz Mark Shwartz Colonies of microbes produce methane gas and other compounds in the lab of Stanford Professor Alfred Spormann. The research goal is to create large microbial factories that convert electricity and carbon dioxide into renewable biofuels and chemicals. Stanford University scientists have solved a long-standing mystery about methanogens, unique microorganisms that transform electricity and carbon dioxide into methane. In a new...