(592c) Bio-Conversion of by-Product Glycerin Streams From Biodiesel Production

Biodiesel production by transesterification produces a glycerol rich by-product stream. The stream is contaminated with many components from the original feed. Utilizing a microbial fuel cell,electricity and a number of chemicals were produced. Each test lasted for seven days and demonstrated a power density of 0.4-0.73 mW/m3. Power density was 50 plus percent higher for the waste stream than pure glycerol. Chemicals, such as 1,2 propanediol were produces. The laboratory system was run at room temperature.