Electrocatalytic CO₂ Reduction Coupled to Formate Fermentation: An Electro-Bio Cascade Approach in Biocompatible Electrolytes.

ABSTRACT: Integration of electrochemical CO₂ reduction with microbial fermentation enables conversion of CO₂ into valuable chemicals but poses challenges at the electrolysis-fermentation interface. The electrolyte must ensure efficient CO₂ reduction while remaining compatible with microbial growth. We investigated various electrolytes for coupling CO₂ electroreduction to formate with formate fermentation by Methylorubrum extorquens TK 0001. Electrolyte performance was evaluated by formate production and microbial growth. A phosphate-based buffer demonstrated the best overall compatibility. Optimal microbial growth occurred at 0.1 mol L^-1 KPi, with tolerance of up to 111 mmol L^-1 formate. Continuous CO₂ electrolysis in 1.0 m

SUBMITTER: Vieira L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12910421 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature