NANO-BIOCATALYSTS

Abstract

The present invention relates to nano-bio catalyst systems for the efficient capture, and conversion of CO2 into valuable by-products, addressing the pressing need for effective carbon management strategies. The integrated system comprises silver nanoparticle-enhanced bio-reactors, iron oxide nanozymes with bacteria, carbon nanotube immobilized enzyme systems, graphene-based nano-bio catalysts for carbon sequestration, and magnetic nanoparticle-assisted photocatalytic conversion modules. Each embodiment utilizes a unique combination of nanotechnology, and bioengineering to optimize the CO2 conversion process, ranging from biofuel production and synthetic gas generation to the creation of stable carbonates and the facilitation of solar-driven chemical transformations. This approach significantly enhances the efficiency and selectivity of CO2 capture, and conversion and also uses renewable energy sources, representing a sustainable pathway towards mitigating climate change and promoting environmental conditions.

Specification

Description:A detailed description of the nano-bio catalysts for carbon capture and conversion of CO2 into valuable by-products using the integration of nanotechnology and bioengineering are mentioned below:
1. Silver Nanoparticle-Enhanced Algal Bio-reactors
In the present system, silver nanoparticles are dispersed within an algal culture contained in bio-reactors. These nanoparticles are engineered to have a plasmonic resonance at specific wavelengths of light, which corresponds to the absorption spectrum of chlorophyll in the cyanobacterium, Spirulina. The silver nanoparticles amplify the light intensity available to the algae when sunlight or a specific wavelength of artificial light hits the reactor. This enhanced light absorption boosts the rate of photosynthesis, leading to increased CO2 uptake and conversion into biofuels like biodiesel.
Silver nanoparticles and algae have a symbiotic relationship with the bio-reactor. The nanoparticles enhance light absorption and also provide a minor antimicrobial effect that can help in maintaining the bioreactor by preventing the growth of pathogenic bacteria. This ensures a stable and efficient environment for CO2 conversion.
2. Iron Oxide Nanozymes with Bacteria
Iron oxide nanoparticles are designed to mimic the active sites of natural enzymes that facilitate the conversion of CO2 into methane. These nanozymes are combined with bacteria, Methanobacterium, in a bioreactor setup. The bacteria are engineered to express specific transporters that increase the uptake of CO2. CO2 is reduced to methane through a series of reactions catalysed by the nanozymes inside the bacterial cell. This process is energy-efficient and can be powered by renewable energy sources.
The nanozymes and bacteria work together to create a highly efficient system for converting CO2 into methane. The iron oxide nanoparticles provide the catalytic activity needed to reduce CO2, while the bacteria offer the biological machinery necessary for substrate uptake and product synthesis. This embodiment represents a biotic-abiotic hybrid approach to carbon conversion.
3. Carbon Nanotube Immobilized Enzyme Systems
The carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are utilized as a scaffold to immobilize cellulose and amylase enzymes that catalyse the conversion of CO2 into ethanol. The CNTs are functionalized with chemical groups that allow enzymes to attach firmly, maintaining their activity over time. This immobilization stabilizes the enzymes and maximizes their exposure to CO2, resulting in increased conversion efficiency. The system can operate in a bioreactor, where CO2 is bubbled through a solution containing the enzyme-CNT complexes.
The carbon nanotubes and enzymes are interconnected through covalent or non-covalent bonds, ensuring that the enzymes remain active and accessible for catalysis. The high surface area of CNTs allows for a high density of enzyme immobilization, enhancing the overall reaction rate. This setup provides a durable and efficient platform for biofuel production.
4. Graphene-based Nano-bio Catalysts for Carbon Sequestration
Graphene sheets are utilized for their high electrical conductivity and surface area, serving as a base for the doping of titanium dioxide (TiO2) that converts CO2 into calcium carbonate (CaCO3). The doping process facilitates the conversion process. When CO2 is introduced to the system, it diffuses onto the graphene surface, where it is readily available for uptake and conversion by the TiO2.
The graphene and doped TiO2 create a system where the graphene serves as a physical support, and enhances the electrical connectivity and nutrient distribution within the biofilm of microorganisms. This environment optimizes the conversion of CO2 into a stable and valuable form of carbon, demonstrating a novel approach to carbon sequestration.
5. Magnetic Nanoparticle-assisted Photocatalytic Conversion
This system employs magnetic nanoparticles coated with Titanium dioxide (TiO2) that use solar energy to convert CO2 into synthetic fuels, such as methanol. The magnetic core allows for easy separation and recycling of the nanoparticles, reducing waste and increasing the sustainability of the process. Under sunlight, the photocatalytic coating activates, reducing CO2 in the presence of water to produce fuel.
The magnetic nanoparticles and photocatalytic materials are intricately linked to create a dual-functional system. The nanoparticles provide a means of recovery and reuse, while the photocatalytic coating drives the conversion process. This embodiment binds the power of solar energy for CO2 reduction, representing a green and efficient method for fuel production.
, Claims:1. A nano-bio catalyst system for carbon capture and conversion comprising:
a) silver nanoparticles dispersed within an algal culture contained in bio-reactors; and
b) algae with increased photosynthetic activity.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the silver nanoparticles are engineered to have a plasmonic resonance at specific wavelengths of light corresponding to the absorption spectrum of chlorophyll in the algae.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the enhanced photosynthetic activity of the algae is due to enhanced light absorption by said silver nanoparticles, resulting in elevated CO2 uptake and conversion into biofuels.
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the silver nanoparticles provide an antimicrobial effect to maintain algal health within the bio-reactors.
5. A carbon conversion system comprising:
a) iron oxide nanoparticles representing active sites of natural enzymes facilitating CO2 conversion into methane; and
b) graphene sheets doped with TiO2.
6. The system as claimed in claim 5, wherein the bacteria, Methanobacterium, and iron oxide nanoparticles are combined in a bioreactor setup for efficient CO2 to methane conversion.
7. The system as claimed in claim 5, wherein the graphene sheets doped with TiO2 express specific transporters to increase CO2 uptake.
8. A carbon sequestration system comprising:
a) graphene sheets; and
b) microorganisms expressing enzymes facilitating CO2 conversion.
9. The system as claimed in claim 8, wherein the graphene sheets serve as a base for doped TiO2 capable of converting CO2 into calcium carbonate.
10. The system as claimed in claim 8, wherein the graphene sheets with doped TiO2 create an optimized environment for carbon sequestration.

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