The Biological production of ethanol from synthesis gas

There has been considerable interest recently in the production of liquid fuels from coal through direct or indirect liquefaction. A culture has been isolated from animal waste that is capable of producing ethanol and acetate from carbon monoxide and from hydrogen and carbon dioxide, the major components of synthesis gas. This paper presents results of batch and continuous laboratory studies with this culture. Special efforts are directed toward maximizing the ratio of ethanol to acetate.

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