Eco Factor: Enzyme converts carbon monoxide into propane.
Researchers at the University of California have discovered that an ancient microorganism that is found in the roots of soybeans could be having the key to cars that run on air. Vanadium nitrogenase produces ammonia from nitrogen gas, but can also convert carbon monoxide into propane, which is used in kitchens across America.
The research team isolated the enzyme that usually converts nitrogen and replaced the nitrogen and oxygen atmosphere with carbon monoxide. Without any oxygen and nitrogen, the enzyme converts carbon monoxide into short chains of carbon two and three atoms long producing propane. The research team is confident that they can modify the enzyme so it could produce liquid gasoline.
While the research is still new, the team of scientists is hoping that if perfected, the technique could lead to cars that are partially powered on their own fumes. Even further, it could lead to vehicles that draw fuel from thin air.
Via: Discovery News
