Biocatalytic removal of low methane concentrations from coal mine ventilation air
This project investigates the capacity of methanotrophic bacteria, loaded on a coal support, for converting methane in coal mine ventilation air (MVA) into carbon dioxide to reduce its greenhouse gas impact. MVA is characterised by low methane concentrations and high flow rates making methane removal/treatment from this source a substantial challenge
Major achievements
Isolation of methanotrophic bacteria from a regional Sydney coal mine has been performed. Design and construction of a biofiltration reactor for bacteria assessment has been carried out.
Future plans and directions
To operate biofilter for 6-9 months (continuous) to assess the capacity of bacteria for removing methane.
Identification of the isolated methanotrophic bacteria strains.
Collaborations
Dr Bettina Rosche School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, UNSW
