Turn urine into rocket fuel

Scientists have discovered a bacterium that can turn ammonium, which is found in urine, into hydrazine - a fuel used for propulsion.

American Titan II propulsion uses hydrazine fuel

Anammox bacteria were discovered in the 90s of the last century, but until recently scientists have discovered their extraordinary ability. A study published today in the latest issue of the Nature of Science (UK), says it could make a better and more effective version of the bacterium that turns human waste into propellant fuel.

"It's a feat," said Mike Jetten, a professor of microbiology at Radboud University's Institute for Water and Soil Science in Nijmegen . We have to deploy a new set of test methods. Finally, we were able to isolate the protein complex responsible for hydrazine production.

Jetten's research and colleagues initially attracted the attention of the American Space Agency (NASA) because the bacteria could help to safely dispose of wastes in space and time. it into rocket fuel. NASA's enthusiasm, however, was reduced by the fact that the bacteria did not provide enough hydrazine to support the study. 'We are now trying to determine exactly the crystal structure of the protein complex that was found. I believe we can improve the production process if we have a better understanding of how protein complexes fit together , "Jetten emphasized.

Anammox is able to decompose ammonia ('ammonium') in water. It also has the potential to act as a biofuel, clean sewage and provide methane.