Research

Bacterial Nanocellulose for Energy Applications

Principal investigator: Ana JORGE SOBRIDO
Co-investigator(s):
Funding source(s): Newton Fund , (British Council)
 Start: 14-04-2020  /  End: 16-10-2021
 Amount: £50,000
Bacterial Biofilm

Our project aims to reuse the leftover of the fique natural fiber production (juice) from local producers  in Antioquia, where close to 100 farmers of fique fibers sell this raw material at a price of $150 COP/kg for the production of sacks and cord. We will use the fique juice as a culture medium for the Komagataeibacter Medellinensis bacteria for the synthesis of bacterial nanocellulose, which will be further activated for energy storage applications, including lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors. With this project, we will support local farmers, who will benefit from selling their agricultural waste to biomass companies, providing farmers a new source of income. The proposed collaboration involves Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana (UPB) and Queen Mary University of London (QMUL).