Nanoparticle-microbe interactions in biofuel fermentation: current understanding and prospective applications

The unique properties of nanomaterials enable them to unexpectedly interact with biological systems, allowing them to play a critical role in the biodegradation of organic waste and accelerating the metabolic activities of biofuel-producing microorganisms. The present perspective highlights the studies conducted on fermentative systems for biofuel production (FSBP) promoted by the acquired catalytic activities of various nanomaterials. It discusses the recent nanoparticle-engineering-based developments, including the development of nanomaterials exhibiting biocompatibility, conductivity, a balanced zeta potential etc., which substantially determines the nanomaterial-microorganism interactions. Furthermore, it highlights functionalized nanoparticles applicable for FSBP, where a wide variety of nanomaterials, including metal oxides, composite metal oxides, carbon-based nanomaterials, etc., have been explored to improve biofuel production. The applicability of functionalized nanoparticles in the production of biohydrogen, biomethane, bioethanol, and other hydrocarbon fuels is presented. Different types of nanoparticles and their possible functional mechanisms are highlighted. Finally, future perspectives for functionalized nanoparticles in FSBP are also discussed.