Cellulose digested for fuel: protozoans

Mixotricha protozoans digests cellulose for termite metabolism.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Break down >
	Chemically break down >
	Other organic compounds

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Mimic digestion for cellulose fuel production. Incorporate time release, or trigger release digestion of cellulose in packaging for cardboard digestion, compost, etc. Digestive enzymes for structural weakening, and re-incorporation or use as fuel.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Termites harbor in their digestive system protozoa called mixotrichs that are critical to their ability to get energy by digesting cellulose." (Vogel 1998:29)

About the inspiring organism

Protozoa
Protozoa

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Mimic digestion for cellulose fuel production. Incorporate time release, or trigger release digestion of cellulose in packaging for cardboard digestion, compost, etc. Digestive enzymes for structural weakening, and re-incorporation or use as fuel.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Energy, Packaging, Built Environment

References

Vogel, S. 1998. Cats' Paws and Catapults: Mechanical Worlds of Nature and People. New York: WW Norton & Company.

Cellulose digested for fuel: protozoans

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