Factors affecting coal solubilization by the BacteriumStreptomyces setonii 75Vi2 and by alkaline buffers

Abstract

Streptomyces setonii 75Vi2 produces an extracellular coal-solubilizing component(s) in the absence of coal. The heat stability, relatively low molecular weight, and insensitivity to proteases of the substance(s) responsible for coal solubilization indicate that the process is nonenzymatic. This report describes factors affecting the production and activity of this substance(s) and the similarity in its action to alkaline buffer solutions in solubilizing coal.