Electrochemical startup increases 1,3-propanediol titers in mixed-culture glycerol fermentations

- 1,3-PDO reached 42 g/l with a maximum long-term yield of 0.46 g/g glycerol.
- Clostridiaceae and Veillonellaceae dominated when 1,3-PDO production was enhanced.
- Propionate in BES produced only when electric potential was insufficient at startup.
- Removing the biofilm ceased glycerol fermentation.
- Absence of electricity encouraged Lactobacillaceae growth and lactate production.