Application of Stable Isotope Techniques for an In-Depth Understanding of Syngas Biomethanation Conversion Pathways

This study investigates the biomethanation of syngas, focusing on microbial interactions that enable the conversion of carbon monoxide into methane. We analyse the effects of environmental factors such as gaseous substrate on microbial consortia, particularly the carboxydotrophic and methanogenic potentials. The proposed experimental plan includes semi-batch tests under mesophilic conditions, with a focus on understanding and optimizing metabolic pathways. The approach integrates microbial population analysis, and the novel stable isotope analysis to provide insights into syngas biomethanation. Future work will address gas-liquid mass transfer limitations using hollow fiber membranes to improve methane production efficiency.