American scientists from the University of California have developed a unique method of converting electricity into isobutanol, which is an alternative fuel. The method was demonstrated visually and proved the scientific theory that electrical energy can be turned into chemical fuel.

The process of converting electricity into chemical fuel in the form of alcohol is based on photosynthesis. This method is achieved with the help of genetically modified bacteria Ralstonia eutropha H16, which "know how" to produce isobutanol and 3-methyl-1-butanol. The process of transformation takes place in the bioreactor with the help of carbon dioxide and electricity.

Experts divided the two stages of photosynthesis: using solar panels, sunlight is converted into electricity, and then captures carbon dioxide for the production of alcohol.

The method can be called revolutionary: until now, such natural biosystems required very large areas of crops, and a bioreactor with microorganisms can be placed almost anywhere. This factor makes it possible to switch to a new type of fuel without changing the existing infrastructure.

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