Bioelectrochemical Enhancements for Scalable CO₂ Conversion in Biofuel Synthesis
Keywords:
Microbial electrosynthesis, CO₂ conversion, Biofuel synthesis, Bioelectrochemical system, Socio-technical readinessAbstract
This study aims to explore bioelectrochemical enhancement for scalable CO₂ conversion in biofuel synthesis, with specific attention to the readiness, barriers, and implementation prospects of microbial electrosynthesis in Indonesia. The study used a qualitative exploratory case study design conducted from December 2025 to February 2026 in Bandung, South Tangerang, Cilegon, and Karawang. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, limited observation, and document analysis involving 18 to 25 key informants, including bioelectrochemical researchers, microbiology experts, reactor technicians, biofuel practitioners, industrial emission managers, and energy or environmental policy actors. Thematic analysis identified four main findings: microbial electrosynthesis is considered promising but not yet production-ready; electrode performance and cathodic biofilm stability remain central technical bottlenecks; scale-up depends on reactor design, gas-liquid transfer, and continuous operation; and industrial implementation requires institutional, economic, and policy readiness. These findings show that scalable CO₂ conversion should not be understood only as a laboratory or reactor efficiency issue, but as a socio-technical process that requires alignment among technology, industry, policy, and infrastructure. The study contributes to the literature by positioning bioelectrochemical CO₂ conversion as an emerging pathway for low-carbon biofuel development and carbon valorization. Further research should integrate qualitative findings with techno-economic analysis and life-cycle assessment to strengthen evidence for industrial adoption.
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