Gold producing bacteria discovered
4 Oct 2012 11:45 PM GMT
Scientists have discovered a bacteria that has the ability to withstand incredible amounts of toxicity and can be the key to creating 24-carat gold.
Researchers from the Michigan State University have found that the metal-tolerant bacteria ‘Cupriavidus metallidurans’ can grow on massive concentrations of gold chloride or liquid gold, a toxic chemical compound found in nature.
The researchers fed the bacteria unprecedented amounts of gold chloride, mimicking the process they believe happens in nature. In about a week, the bacteria transformed the toxins and produced a gold nugget. ‘Microbial alchemy is what we’re doing - transforming gold from something that has no value,’ said Kazem Kashefi, assistant professor of microbiology and molecular genetics in a statement.
The work is on display at the cyber art competition, Prix Ars Electronica, in Austria.
Researchers from the Michigan State University have found that the metal-tolerant bacteria ‘Cupriavidus metallidurans’ can grow on massive concentrations of gold chloride or liquid gold, a toxic chemical compound found in nature.
The researchers fed the bacteria unprecedented amounts of gold chloride, mimicking the process they believe happens in nature. In about a week, the bacteria transformed the toxins and produced a gold nugget. ‘Microbial alchemy is what we’re doing - transforming gold from something that has no value,’ said Kazem Kashefi, assistant professor of microbiology and molecular genetics in a statement.
The work is on display at the cyber art competition, Prix Ars Electronica, in Austria.
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