CO2bion

Project number #16103
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Project

Major Objective

A key objective of the project is to address fundamental scientific questions related to:

  • The physical and chemical mechanisms governing CO₂ capture

  • The biological processes driving non-photosynthetic CO₂ conversion

  • The critical interface (“transfer-line”) between capture and bioconversion modules

Understanding these aspects is essential for achieving efficient system integration at the laboratory scale.

Develop a comprehensive model of the integrated CO₂ capture–bioconversion process using realistic input and output conditions representative of high CO₂–emitting industries. The model will account for the optimal operating conditions of both the IL/DES membrane-based CO₂ capture module and the microbial fermentation module. Special emphasis will be placed on identifying the functional requirements at the interface between the two modules, defining system boundaries, and exploring potential adjustments that enable optimal joint operation.

Investigate CO₂ absorption and gas transport through supported IL/DES liquid membranes to determine their applicability and performance within the integrated system. Particular focus will be given to amine- and amino acid–functionalized ionic liquids (AAILs), which are among the most promising CO₂ capture materials, as well as deep eutectic solvents (DES) as greener and more cost-effective alternatives.

The study will address knowledge gaps related to:

  • CO₂ desorption conditions tailored for biological utilization

  • Membrane stability and degradation rates

  • Potential release of membrane-derived compounds (“debris”) that may impact downstream microbial fermentation

These aspects are critical, as IL/DES membrane systems have traditionally been optimized as stand-alone CO₂ capture units for storage rather than for direct biological integration.

Evaluate the performance, yield, and operational limits of a lab-scale M. thermoacetica fermentation under conditions dictated by optimal CO₂ desorption from IL/DES membranes. The investigation will assess the impact of:

  • Membrane degradation products

  • Trace heavy metals potentially present in industrial CO₂ streams

Advanced mass spectrometry–based metabolic phenotyping and metabolic modeling will be employed. Mixotrophic cultures (with glucose supplementation) will be used under previously optimized continuous cultivation conditions to reduce hydrogen demand. This represents the first systematic investigation of this bioprocess operating in direct synchronization with a CO₂ absorption–desorption unit.

Integrate experimental data and metabolic modeling outputs from both modules into a unified process model. This will allow the identification of a feasible continuous operation window and enable evaluation of the overall sustainability of the integrated system. The study will further define engineering modifications required in either module to support scalability and long-term applicability as a viable solution for high CO₂–emitting industrial sectors.

Specific Objectives

The specific objectives aim to make CO₂ capture and conversion work together efficiently in one continuous system and to evaluate its potential as a sustainable solution for industrial CO₂ emissions.

Interdisciplinary Innovation and Scientific Novelty

CO₂BION is strongly interdisciplinary, integrating two cutting-edge engineering domains that have traditionally been developed independently:

  • Advanced CO₂ capture technologies

  • Biological CO₂ utilization and conversion

The project explores whether these technologies can be successfully combined into a single, sustainable workflow, bridging disciplines that are typically distant but complementary.

Mathematical modeling will be employed to analyze:

  • Individual process modules

  • The integrated CO₂ capture–conversion system

These models will help predict system behavior, performance limits, and operational boundaries, while accounting for the specific characteristics of each module. This approach supports rational process optimization and future scale-up potential.

Modeling, Predictability, and System Boundaries

Methodology

Integrated Process Modeling
CO₂ Capture with IL/DES Liquid Membranes
CO₂ Desorption & Process Interface
Microbial CO₂ Bioconversion
Robustness to Industrial Impurities
Metabolic Analysis & Data Integration
Iterative Optimization & Sustainability Assessment
System-level modeling integrates CO₂ capture and bioconversion using real emissions to optimize continuous operation.
CO₂BION develops ionic liquid and deep eutectic solvent membranes to enable efficient, stable CO₂ capture compatible with bioprocesses.

The project studies the CO₂ capture–bioconversion interface to ensure clean CO₂ release and seamless process integration.

Captured CO₂ is continuously converted by an extremophilic bacterium into acetate for biofuels and value-added chemicals.

The methodology tests microbial tolerance to CO₂-stream impurities to define safe, robust operating limits.

Mass spectrometry–based profiling informs models to understand, optimize, and guide the integrated process.

Integrated experiments and modeling assess feasibility, scalability, and sustainability for industrial deployment.

Work Packages

The CO₂BION project is structured into five interconnected Work Packages (WPs), covering project coordination, integrated process modeling, CO₂ capture, bioconversion, and dissemination activities.

  • Project coordination and monitoring
  • Reporting and interaction with the funding body

WP1 ensures the overall coordination, management, and smooth implementation of the CO₂BION project. It oversees project progress, communication among partners, reporting to the funding agency, and financial management throughout the project duration.

  • Integrated process modeling
  • Identification of interface requirements between modules

WP2 focuses on the development of a mathematical model that integrates the CO₂ capture and microbial bioconversion processes. The model is used to identify operational requirements, investigate feasibility, and guide experimental work across the project.

  • Development of novel IL/DES materials
  • Experimental study of CO₂ absorption and separation

WP3 addresses the design, synthesis, and characterization of ionic liquid and deep eutectic solvent (IL/DES) liquid membranes for efficient CO₂ capture. The work evaluates CO₂ absorption, transport, and separation properties, as well as compatibility with downstream bioprocesses.

  • Microbial CO₂ bioconversion studies
  • Assessment of tolerance to impurities and membrane byproducts

WP4 investigates the performance and tolerance of an extremophilic microbial fermentation process for CO₂ bioconversion. The work focuses on assessing microbial robustness in the presence of potential impurities originating from real-life CO₂ emissions and membrane processes.

  • Scientific dissemination
  • Stakeholder communication and outreach

WP5 is dedicated to the dissemination and communication of CO₂BION results. Activities include scientific publications, conference presentations, public outreach, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring visibility and impact of the project outcomes.

CO₂BION demonstrates a new integrated approach to CO₂ capture and bioconversion, transforming carbon emissions into valuable chemical resources. By delivering a lab-scale proof-of-concept, the project supports sustainable engineering solutions for CO₂-intensive industries.
   • Environmental impact: reduced CO₂ emissions
   • Technological impact: integrated capture and conversion

Scientifically, CO₂BION advances knowledge in CO₂ capture materials, microbial bioconversion, and process integration, with a strong focus on their interface. The project generates new data and models while contributing to research capacity building and interdisciplinary training.
   • Scientific impact: novel data and predictive tools
   • Societal impact: skills development and competitiveness

Scientific & Societal Impact

From CO₂ emissions to sustainable solutions