GERMAN oil producer Wintershall hopes that fungi could help it boost its crude production by as much as 45%. The Kassel-based company is experimenting with the Schizophyllum commune fungus, which generates a biopolymer when it consumes oxygen and starch. This gelatine-like biopolymer thickens water, which is injected into oil deposits to enhance production.
Wintershall said the water can force more oil out of the deposit because it no longer flows past the valuable raw material so easily. The technique is being tested in Ludwigshafen where BASF, Wintershall’s parent company, has a facility.
Biologically degradable
The Schizophyllum commune fungus can be found in forests on dead wood, such as fallen timber. It is used in South America as a food supplement and in Asia it is used to strengthen the immune system. Schizophyllum feeds off oxygen and sugar, and generates the biopolymer...