Using microbes to generate methane

Dr Arlene Rowan is searching for the presence of methanogenic microbes and investigating their potential to produce methane from anaerobic breakdown of seaweed.

Wastes rich in organic matter, including sheep and cow gut contents and faeces, and sewage treatment waste, are among the various sources of inoculum being tested. Wild, beach harvested seaweeds and cultured seaweed will then be investigated for their potential to generate methane and their suitability as a source of biofuel.