Sometimes science is entertaining enough to make one stop and ponder the endless possibilities of being truly resourceful. A group of researchers at University of Birmingham, UK, have discovered a way to create power by using the waste generated by a chocolate factory. Microbiologist Lynne Mackaskie and her colleagues at the university fed Escherichia coli bacteria a diluted chocolate waste. Upon consuming the sugary mixture, the bacteria produced hydrogen, which is produced with the enzyme hydrogenase, and organic acids. The hydrogen was then used to power a fuel cell, which generated enough electricity to drive a small fan. If not used, the candy waste ends up in a land fill after the production line. The idea of recycling in such a manner is akin to the idea behind bio-diesel fuel. This could be an exciting alternative energy source to consider as we face the facts of our quickly disappearing fossil fuels.
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