The research group focuses on resource recovery and production of biocommodities with microbial electrochemical technologies (MET). In MET, electrical current can be produced with microorganisms or electrical current can be used to steer the metabolism of microorganisms. In addition, (biologically produced) electrical current can be used to recover nutrient with (bio-)electroconcentration.
Research focus and goals
The overall aim of the research group is to accelerate transition towards bio and circular economy. Our group aims at developing processes for, e.g. nutrient recovery with (bio-)electrochemical methods, conversion of carbon dioxide into short chain fatty acids with microbial electrosynthesis and chain elongation, and to steer fermentation of organics towards higher value compounds. The group has also competence on bioelectrochemical wastewater treatment and metal recovery.
The group focuses on reactor development, process optimization and on integration of the processes to existing infrastructures (e.g. anaerobic digestion) or for upcoming technologies (e.g. biological production of long-chain organic compounds). In addition, the mixed microbial communities enriched at the anodes and cathodes are characterized with metagenomic approaches to reveal the active microorganisms and their synergies.
Leader
Marika Kokko
Professor, bio- ja kiertotalous
Marika Kokko
