Biological Oxygen Generation
Project Leader: John D. Coates
Unit: College of Science, Dept. of Microbiology
Brief Description:
The invention takes advantage of the novel metabolism of a unique microorganism isolated by SIUC researchers to produce oxygen in large quantities from aqueous solutions of a dry stable chemical under aerobic or anoxic conditions. The oxygen is evolved as gaseous O2 from the solution and may be easily trapped for the desired applications.
Patent Status:
Patent application pending.
Potential Commercial Uses:
One of the major limitations to space and deep-sea exploration is the need for a continuous supply of oxygen. To date, oxygen for space travel and undersea exploration has to be carried in pressurized tanks, which are both heavy and cumbersome. There is also the safety risk of pressurized O2 tanks. This invention offers a safer, more stable source of oxygen and may also be suitable as a supplementary or emergency source. The chemical requirements for this invention can be stored safely as a dry powder at standard temperature and pressure without the risk of explosion. The biological component can be stored as a freeze-dried powder and is stable indefinitely at standard temperature and pressure.
Contact:
Jeff Myers, Senior Technology Transfer Specialist, (618) 453-4543, fax: (618) 453-8038