Bioethanol production by immobilized co-culture of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Scheffersomyces stipitis in a novel continuous 3D printing microbioreactor

Pedro Henrique F Rodrigues ¹, Elizabeth G DA Silva ¹, Alex S Borges ¹

⁰Universidade Federal de Goiás, Instituto de Química, Av. Esperança, s/n, Chácaras de Recreio Samambaia, 74690-900 Goiânia, GO, Brazil.

Anais Da Academia Brasileira De Ciencias +

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September 25, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

A novel 3D printed microbioreactor enhances ethanol production from xylose using a co-culture of yeast strains. This continuous system offers a low-cost, efficient alternative for biorefineries without genetically modified organisms.

Area Of Science

Biotechnology
Biochemical Engineering
Industrial Microbiology

Background

Biorefineries need cost-effective, versatile processes with minimal waste.
Efficient utilization of hemicellulose fractions is crucial for sustainable biomass conversion.
Conventional fermentation methods can be limited in productivity and scalability.

Purpose Of The Study

To develop an intensified ethanol production process using a continuous 3D printed microbioreactor.
To evaluate a novel biocatalyst comprising a co-culture of Scheffersomyces stipitis and Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
To demonstrate the application of this system for xylose/xylulose fermentation without engineered strains.

Main Methods

Development of a continuous 3D printing microbioreactor with Arduino-controlled feeding.
Batch fermentation of monocultures and co-cultures of S. stipitis and S. cerevisiae.
Continuous fermentation using the immobilized co-culture in the developed microbioreactor.

Main Results

The microbioreactor achieved a 2-fold increase in ethanol concentration compared to monocultures.
Ethanol productivity was 3-fold higher in the microbioreactor compared to monocultures.
The co-culture demonstrated efficient fermentation of xylose/xylulose (3:1).

Conclusions

The developed 3D printed microbioreactor significantly intensifies ethanol production.
This system offers a promising, cost-effective approach for utilizing hemicellulose.
The microbioreactor technology is adaptable for the production of other valuable bioproducts.