Acetone-butanol-ethanol fermentation

Definition

Acetone-butanol-ethanol (ABE) fermentation is a biological process in which certain bacteria convert sugars into acetone, butanol, and ethanol. This process is often carried out by Clostridium species under anaerobic conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ABE fermentation is primarily carried out by Clostridium acetobutylicum.
2. The process produces solvents in the approximate ratio of 3 parts acetone, 6 parts butanol, and 1 part ethanol.
3. ABE fermentation was historically significant during World War I for producing solvents used in explosives.
4. Butanol produced via ABE fermentation can be used as a biofuel due to its higher energy content compared to ethanol.
5. The process involves the initial production of acids (acetate and butyrate) which are later converted into solvents.

Related terms

Anaerobic Fermentation: A type of fermentation that occurs without oxygen.

Clostridium acetobutylicum: A bacterial species utilized in ABE fermentation.

Biofuel: A fuel derived from biological sources, such as plant or microbial biomass.