BIOCHEMICAL FUEL CELL.
Abstract
Investigations were directed at obtaining practical methods for the production of hydrogen gas by microorganisms. A variety of vegetables acted as sources of fuel for H2 generation by Clostridium welchii. Mashed sweet and Irish potatoes were the best sources for the generation of large quantities of H2 gas. Addition of small amounts of human feces greatly accelerated H2 production. Seed inoculum for fermentors will cause H2 generation immediately and at a near maximum rate. The length of time required for the onset of H2 generation by cells showing a lag period was shortened by increasing the concentration of Fe in the fermentation medium. H2 produced during fermentation was substantially increased by both ferrous salts and sodium bicarbonate. The investigation revealed clues to some of the underlying biochemical mechanisms operative in microbial H2 production. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 30, 1964
- Accession Number
- AD0456550
Entities
People
- Charles R. Goucher
- Gordon C. Blanchard
Organizations
- Melpar