(University of Bristol/Laboratory Equipment) New research by scientists at the Univ. of Bristol has challenged one of the key axioms in biology — that enzymes need water to function. The breakthrough could eventually lead to the development of new industrial
by Julie Fahnestock (Just Means) ... In fact, traditional cooking methods—open fires of wood and chemically based charcoals—have been deemed “the silent killer.” According to the World Health Organization, more people in the developing world die each year from illness
by John Davis (DomesticFuel.com) A professor of alternative fuels is making a 3,550-mile journey cross country to show how well chicken fat biodiesel can perform. This article from the Murfreesboro (TN) Daily News Journal says hometown Middle Tennessee State University
by Natalie van Hoose (Purdue University) ... Growers can manage the potential risks linked to extreme rain events and soil degradation by using adaptive strategies such as planting cover crops, using no-till techniques, increasing the biodiversity of grasses and forage
by Greg St. Martin (News@Northeastern) An international research team led by Dan Distel, director of the Ocean Genome Legacy Center of New England Biolabs at Northeastern University, has discovered a novel digestive strategy in shipworms. The breakthrough, the researchers say,
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) What a wonderful day, talking from dawn ‘til dusk about the past, present and future of biofuels with faculty and students excited about their work in this area. [caption id="attachment_57305" align="alignleft" width="300"] Joanne Ivancic speaks
by Emil Venere (Purdue News) Researchers have demonstrated a new process to convert all biomass into liquid fuel, and the method could make possible mobile processing plants. The researchers at Purdue University filed a patent application on the concept in 2008
(Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News) ... But mass-efficient payloads should be possible, insist researchers at the University of California, provided space explorers make use of nontraditional biological techniques. In particular, these researchers say synthetic biology should give space missions a
by Tom Doran (AgriNews) There’s a running joke that when a researcher is asked when cellulosic ethanol will be viable, their answer is always “five years away.” That timeframe has officially expired with cellulosic ethanol now being commercially produced at
(Basque Research) ... Chemical engineer Inés Reyero Zaragoza proposed the substitution of methanol by ethanol for the production of biodiesel and the use of a heterogeneous catalyst, which will “result in a reduction of costs and in the environmental impact
by Kathleen Gallagher (Milwaukee Wisconsin Journal Sentinel) The Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation, the technology transfer arm of the University of Wisconsin-Madison has granted a license to and taken a stake in Xylome Corp., a privately-held Madison biotech company. The agreement between WARF
(North Dakota Farmers Union/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Ethanol production in North Dakota generates significant income for retail agricultural service and supply dealers, roughly $700 million a year, according to a study recently released by the Center for Agricultural Policy and Trade
(State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry) EcoWillow 2.0 is the most comprehensive and up-to-date financial analysis tool for shrub willow biomass crops. Originally released in 2008 after over 20 years of research on shrub willow
by Christian Durand (Concordia University) Emerging graduate research at Concordia seeks to turn pulp mills into dynamic biorefineries How can a struggling industry like pulp and paper in Canada be revived? According to Damien Biot-Pelletier, a Concordia PhD candidate in biology, the
by Yongchun Hong, He Zhang, Junming Sun, Karim M. Ayman, Alyssa J. R. Hensley, Meng Gu, Mark H. Engelhard, Jean-Sabin McEwen , and Yong Wang (ACS Catalysis) In this work, a series of Pd/Fe2O3 catalysts were synthesized, characterized, and
(University of Illinois/Biomass Magazine) Two University of Illinois crop sciences researchers interested in improving plant feedstocks for bioenergy production were selected to receive funding by the USDA and the U.S. Department of Energy as part of a larger Obama administration
(North Carolina State University/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Scientists are using biotechnology to chip away at barriers to producing biofuels from woody plants and grasses instead of the corn and sugarcane used to make ethanol. NC State’s Forest Biotechnology Group, which has been
(Green Car Congress) A study published earlier this year in the journal Nature Climate Change that cast doubt on whether biofuels produced from corn residue could meet federal mandates for cellulosic biofuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% compared
(Rutgers-Camden News Now) ... Using a software program they developed, computer science majors Jim Kelley and Tony Lane create mathematical models of organisms to better predict how they can be engineered to produce desirable products. “We’re able to modify the organisms
(Louisiana State University/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Sweet sorghum is not currently grown as a commercial crop in Louisiana, but in the future, producers may consider growing it for use as a biofuel feedstock. To help guide commercial production of this crop,
by Nancy Bazilchuk (Norwegian University of Science and Technology/REnewable Energy World) A Norwegian research group has been able to achieve bio-oil yields of 79 percent from a common kelp, much higher than other attempts. The secret is to heat the kelp
by John Hansen (Nebraska Farmers Union/Omaha.com) ... When Iowa State University’s Center for Agricultural and Rural Development examined the impact the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) has on a family of four, it found an average in fuel savings of $863 per
(South Dakota State University/Lab Manager) South Dakota State University food science professor Padmanaban Krishnan received a four-year grant geared toward getting corn co-products to the food market. With a $576,000 project budget for the Minnesota Corn Growers Association grant, Krishnan will
by By Nok-Noi Ricker (Bangor Daily News) The organization representing the trash interests of 187 Maine towns is now partnering with the University of Maine to determine if new garbage-to-energy technology from a Maryland company —- known as “Trashanol” — will
(University of California Office of Research) Tech ID: 23816 / UC Case 2014-170-0 Abstract: A simple method of synthesizing gasoline from cellulosic biomass. Full Description Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed a novel synthesis of "drop-in" gasoline from cellulosic
(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) Today (October 22, 2014), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that 105 graduate students across the nation will receive $8.6 million in Science to Achieve Results (STAR) fellowship grants to conduct research on topics ranging
(Southeast Partnership for Integrated Biomass Supply Systems (IBSS)) 10 WEEK SUMMER UNDERGRADUATE FELLOWSHIP (MAY 25‐JULY 31, 2015) The Southeast Energy Development (SEED) Fellowship is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture‐Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) program under the
by Jessica Martin (Washington University in St. Louis) The government of India’s Department of Biotechnology, Indian corporate leaders and Washington University in St. Louis have invested $2.5 million to launch the Indo-US Advanced Bioenergy Consortium for Second Generation Biofuels
(Pacific Biodiesel Technologies/Biodiesel Magazine) Divers and crew aboard Aqua Adventures Maui are no longer breathing petroleum exhaust when they begin their diving experience from the swim step of the vessel. In a demonstration of its commitment to recycling and to
by Kelly April Tyrrell (University of Wisconsin-Madison) In Wisconsin, bioenergy is for the birds. Really. In a study published today in the journal PLOS ONE, University of Wisconsin-Madison and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) scientists examined whether corn and
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In Michigan, discovery of a cellular snooze button has allowed a team of Michigan State University scientists to potentially improve biofuel production and offer insight on the early stages of cancer. The discovery that the
(Science 20) The yeast has not been gene modified by the researchers; rather, they have used adaptive laboratory evolution to produce it. The method allows new characteristics to be produced without knowing which mutations are required to achieve them. Three yeast
by Joanna Schroeder (DomesticFuel.com) The Building Illinois’ Bioeconomy (BIB) consortium has received a $9.9 million grant to create an Illinois network of biobased training and employment pathways that can be completed in two years or less. BIB is comprised of
(US Enviromental Protection Agency) “Each year, the projects and designs created by the P3 teams surpass expectations,” said Lek Kadeli, Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Research and Development. “These students are creating sustainable solutions for our everyday needs,
(U.S. Department of Energy) The Energy Department announced today (October 9, 2014) up to $13.4 million for five projects to develop advanced biofuels and bioproducts that will help drive down the cost of producing gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel from
by Donnelle Eller (Des Moines Register) Oil and gas giant ExxonMobil Corp. is investing $1 million over two years to establish an advanced biofuels research program at Iowa State University, the partners said today. The ExxonMobil biofuels initiative will will initially
(Keene State University) ... And, combusting biodiesel fuel produces less particulate pollution than does petroleum diesel. That's true even with B-20, the standard ratio of 20% biodiesel, 80% petroleum diesel. Efficient, renewable, healthier for the environment, made right here in the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The state of R&D so far. 4 NAABB advances have brought the cost of algae biocrude oil down to $7.50 per gallon. 3 roadblocks remain between today’s cost and $3.00. In our two-part series, we look first
(University of Missouri) WHAT: The grand opening of the Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) Center for Agricultural Development at the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR). The ADM Center for Agriculture Development will provide students with
by Nikki Henderson (ArkLaTex Homepage) Sweet sorghum is not currently grown as a commercial crop in Louisiana, but in the future, producers may consider growing it for use as a biofuel feedstock. To help guide commercial production of this crop, the LSU
by Anne Trafton (MIT News Office) Different environment helps yeast tolerate high levels of ethanol, making them more productive. Yeast are commonly used to transform corn and other plant materials into biofuels such as ethanol. However, large concentrations of ethanol
by Katie Fletcher (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Many dedicated energy crops hold promise as feedstocks for next-generation ethanol. Extensive R&D is still needed, however, to overcome the challenges in making these plants viable for commercial applications. ... This year, $12.6 million was awarded to
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In California, researchers have published a study that shows the state could be powered entirely be renewable resources by 2050. The study focuses on water, wind and sunlight, ostensibly pushing biofuels into the “unwanted” category with
by Sergei Blair (Town and Country) Although it may look like an ordinary tall grass, scientists from Penn State's Cooperative Extension, Montgomery County, said switchgrass—commonly found across much of the eastern and southern Unites States—can be the next best source
by Christopher Doering (Des Moines Register) Purdue University researchers said Wednesday they have discovered the structure of the enzyme that makes cellulose, a finding that could make it easier to break down plant materials used to make biofuels and other products. The
(University of Wisconsin-Madison) What do biofuels look like on the Wisconsin landscape? Some might think of corn or switchgrass. But what about that herd of cows? What you can’t see might fool you. Cows are walking natural biodigesters, says CALS
(University of California-Irvine) Abundant supplies of natural gas will do little to reduce harmful U.S. emissions causing climate change, according to researchers at UC Irvine, Stanford University, and the nonprofit organization Near Zero. They found that inexpensive gas boosts electricity
(University of Wyoming) After graduating from Northern Kentucky University with bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and accounting, Allen Morris decided to pursue graduate studies at the University of Wyoming for two primary reasons: the Rocky Mountain lifestyle, and an attractive stipend
by Mike Anderson (Deseret News) Utah State University researchers are using the Bonneville Salt Flats to market what they believe is the fuel of the future: a biofuel made with algae and safflower seeds. For some, salt is the stuff dreams are made
Mohammad Shahidul Islam, Christian Bundy and M.A.A.S. Choudhury (International Journal of Oil, Gas and Coal Technology) Monoglycerides are intermediate by products in rapeseed oil transesterification. If they are present in the bio-fuel and the bio-fuel is used in vehicles, then they
(HY-TEK Bio) The Maryland Clean Energy Center (MCEC) has chosen Howard County-based HY-TEK Bio, LLC as the 2014 Entrepreneur of the Year. HY-TEK Bio earned the award due to its “demonstrated leadership, partnership, advocacy and entrepreneurism in a distinct commitment
(Neste Oil/Biomass Magazine) Neste Oil and Renewable Algal Energy, a U.S.-based algae biomass producer, have signed a contingent commercial algae oil off-take agreement. Algae oil is one of the alternatives being researched by Neste Oil for use as a feedstock
(Caribbean Journal) Honduras has opened its first ethanol plant in the eastern portion of the country. It plant is part of a wider initiative led by the Organization of American States to broaden cooperation on biofuels within the hemisphere. The plant was
by Dr. Doria Gordon (The Nature Conservancy/Biofuels Digest) Cultivation of bioenergy crops is predicted to increase to between 27 and 120 million acres by 2022 in order to meet the renewable energy needs of the U.S. and the Environmental Protection
by Holly Jessen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... Now, grant money has been awarded to three California ethanol plants to develop a sorghum feedstock program. Calgren Renewable Fuels, Aemetis Inc. and Pacific Ethanol Inc. each received a $3 million matching grant from the California Energy Commission’s
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... With great sessions at conferences, delegates are usually keen to get a hold of the powerpoint decks. But how do you get a hold of the great Q&A that follows the presentations — or the
(National Biodiesel Board) James Anderson helped work his way through college behind the wheel of a diesel semi-truck, where he became interested in biodiesel. He began to wonder if he could contribute to the body of research on soybean oil
by Richard Taylor and Won W. Koo (Center for Agricultural Policy and Trade Studies North Dakota State University) ... The first immediate impact of ethanol was increased agricultural commodity prices. In 2005, the corn price averaged $2.00 per bushel. At the end of 2006,
by Nick Mariano (The Southern Illinoisan) A Southern Illinois college is hoping to offer the first national certification in the country for training in biofuels processing, the instructor for the program said Tuesday. Southeastern Illinois College is among a consortium of
(HY-TEK Bio) HY-TEK Bio LLC, a Howard County biotech start-up, has been awarded a $500,000 grant in the first round of the Change and Emissions Management Corporation’s (CCEMC) $35 million international Grand Challenge: Innovative Carbon Uses. HY-TEK was among 24 finalists selected from
by Lindsey Alexander (Purdue University) Farmers using cover crops as a soil conservation method can remove much more corn stover per acre for biofuels or other uses and at the same time potentially increase their income, Purdue University research shows. The
(University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences/EurekAlert!) If the hottest new plant grown as a biofuel crop is approved based solely on its greenhouse gas emission profile, its potential as the next invasive species may not be
by Joanna Schroeder (DomesticFuel.com) Several University of Minnesota students are giving the ethanol industry a preview of their cutting-edge research in biofuels, biochemicals and bioproducts during the 27th Annual Ethanol Conference in Minneapolis. One such student is Sahana Ramanna who is a
by Katie Fletcher (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The 2014 American Coalition for Ethanol conference included a discussion of research efforts aimed at making ethanol plants more profitable. Ken Valentas, professor at the University of Minnesota, and Joseph Molde, a student, have
(prweb.com) The Water Environment Research Foundation (WERF) has selected Drexel University to perform research that will monitor and quantify the composition of waste greases to improve knowledge about the feasibility of grease-to-biodiesel processes. A key outcome of the Extraction of
by Sean Nealon (UCR Today) RIVERSIDE, Calif. (www.ucr.edu) — A University of California, Riverside Bourns College of Engineering professor is one of the authors of a paper recently published in Science that outlines ways companies can commercialize and profit from what
by Will Dunham (Reuters) Eucalyptus leaves are the main food supply for Australia's koalas, but there is a lot more to the tree than that. ... An international team of researchers this week unveiled the genetic blueprint of the tree species Eucalyptus grandis
by Sean Nealon (UCR Today) A team of researchers, led by Professor Charles E. Wyman, at the University of California, Riverside’s Bourns College of Engineering have developed a versatile, relatively non-toxic, and efficient way to convert raw agricultural and forestry
by Kay Ledbetter (AgriLife Today) As requirements grow for use of cellulosic biofuels to meet the energy needs of the nation, researchers look at potential feedstocks and any effects these alternative sources may have on greenhouse gas emissions. A recent Texas A&M
by Elizabeth Gardner (Purdue University) ... Purdue University physicists are part of an international group using spinach to study the proteins involved in photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert the sun’s energy into carbohydrates used to power cellular processes. “The proteins we
(University of Twente) Catalyst developed at University of Twente helps achieve European 2020 objective Oil produced from biomass - such as wood chips or plant residues - seldom has the same quality and energy content as ‘classical’ crude oil. A new,
by Anna Simet (Ethanol Producer Magazine) BioCycle plans to make use of agricultural scrap and waste materials and other biomass sources as manufacturing precursors, via a $5 million bioprocessing facility that is currently in final financing stages. According to President and
by Sue Retka Schill (Biomass Magazine) Bioenergy professionals interested in getting certified or earning a master’s degree might want to check in on Penn State’s program in renewable energy and sustainability systems. The university launched its masters program last year
(South Florida State College) Beginning this fall, South Florida State College (SFSC) will offer a Bioenergy Education Program to provide students with a foundation of environmental sciences and renewable energy. With a rising interest in green chemistry, sustainability, and escalating oil
(US Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today (July 17, 2014) announced the selection of 10 projects that are being awarded funding aimed at accelerating genetic breeding programs to improve
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Could a liquid fuel technology emerge that connects solar PV to the efficiency of electric engines — but, this time with long driving range and near-instant refueling instead of laborious recharging? And, could the liquid fuel
by Holly Jessen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) North Carolina recently awarded six projects a total of $500,000 through the state’s Bioenergy Research Initiative, which is a program of the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Special consideration is given to projects
(Optimus Technologies/MarketWatch) As an alternative to CNG, creates new opportunities for advanced biofuel providers. Optimus Technologies today (July 8, 2014) announced two significant milestones that are changing the U.S. commercial truck industry. First, it is the first to receive U.S. EPA
by Karin Kloosterman (Israel21c.org) An Israeli professor is poised to ramp up production of an exciting alternative to polluting jet fuels and natural gas. An Israeli research team from Ben-Gurion University has developed something that seems like fuel for the futuristic
by Gleen Farley (KING 5 News) In 2011, Alaska Airlines was the first carrier in the country to fly regular passenger carrying flights using bio-fuel. It replaced 20 percent of the jet fuel with a crystal clear liquid - refined industrial
by Jenna Iacurci (Nature World News) Algenol, an up-and-coming company that specializes in algae-based biofuels, has developed and perfected its revolutionary technology, likely securing its spot as the next generation's leader in renewable energy. In collaborating with University of Toronto scientists,
by Mary-Ann Muffoletto (Phys.org) Microalgae-based biofuel not only has the potential to quench a sizable chunk of the world's energy demands, say Utah State University researchers. It's a potential game-changer. "That's because microalgae produces much higher yields of fuel-producing biomass than other traditional
(Montana State University) Montana State University is the lead institution on a new $10 million, four-year project to form a research center focused on innovative energy research. The Biological Electron Transfer and Catalysis (BETCy) Energy Frontiers Research Center (EFRC) will be
by Philip Kenny, Kevin J. Flynn (Journal of Applied Phycology) Optimization of the production rate of biomass rich in N (e.g. for protein) or C (e.g. for biofuels) is key to making algae-based technology commercially viable. Creating the appropriate conditions to achieve
by Seth Palmer (Phys.Org) Cocoa farmers this year will lose an estimated 30 to 40 percent of their crop to pests and disease, and with chocolate prices having risen globally by roughly two-thirds in the past decade, concern is growing
by Sue Pike (seacoastonline.com) Duckweeds are the world's smallest flowering plants. These tiny plants float on still and slow-moving water the world over. With the warm spring weather you can find duckweed growing along the edges of most local ponds and
(Georgia Tech/Biomass Magazine) When making cellulosic ethanol from plants, one problem is what to do with a woody agricultural waste product called lignin. The old adage in the pulp industry has been that one can make anything from lignin except
by Jade Boyd (Rice University) Rice University researchers register 4th ‘volcano plot’ for palladium-gold catalysts Rice University chemical engineer Michael Wong has spent a decade amassing evidence that palladium-gold nanoparticles are excellent catalysts for cleaning polluted water, but even he was surprised
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) Researchers from the University of Bath’s Centre for Sustainable Chemical Technologies conducted a study recently looking at fuel properties of biodiesel produced from different types of waste coffee grounds. Twenty different geographically sourced coffees, including regular and
by Will Dunham (Reuters) Eucalyptus leaves are the main food supply for Australia's koalas, but there is a lot more to the tree than that. It is native to Australia but has become the world's most widely planted hardwood tree. The
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) Cornell University’s David R. Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future has awarded $1.4 million from its Academic Venture Fund to 12 new university projects, including several related to biomass and bioenergy production. One of the 12
(Biodiesel Magazine) Lab success doesn’t always translate to real-world success. A team of Michigan State University scientists, however, has invented a new technology that increases the odds of helping algae-based biofuels cross that gap and come closer to reality. The current issue
by Marc Valero (Highlands Today) SEBRING — Three years ago, Highlands County was on the cusp of a bio boom time with hundreds of jobs looming in construction, agriculture and technology with buzz words such as biofuels, ethanol production and renewable
(TimesDispatch.com) LYNCHBURG — Conservation researchers set about killing the grass on about 500 acres of land at Sweet Briar College this spring in preparation for a multiyear study that could have implications for landowners and environmentalists nationwide. ... The Conservation Innovation Grant is from
by Olatomiwa Bifarin* (Advanced Biofuels USA) The June edition of the Northeast bioenergy webinar series by Northeast Woody/Warm-season Biomass Consortium (NEWBio) featured Kwesi Boateng - Lead Scientist at the United States Department of Energy, Agricultural Research Service, (USDA-ARS) Eastern Regional
(Michigan State University) The Michigan Translational Research and Commercialization Program for the Bio-Economy, launched by MSU and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, announces the first three BioAg projects selected for grants to help make them broadly available for consumer use. Supported
by Hal Hodson (New Scientist) A chemical chimera may one day help break down stubborn plant matter into biofuel. The feat involves mixing enzymes from two types of plant-munching bacteria that would never have met in nature. Biofuel producers use the
by Rafaela Relvas (BioNews Texas) Researchers at Texas A&M University conducted a study that brought new insights regarding bioenergy sorghum, finding that, more than an energy supply, it may offer a “sink” for greenhouse gases. ... The team worked in a field near
by Kate Yandell (The Scientist) Researchers from the University of Georgia and at Tennessee’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory have engineered the thermophilic bacterium Caldicellulosiruptor bescii to directly convert switchgrass into ethanol, according to a study published on June 2 in PNAS.
(MIT News) Cullen Buie manipulates micro-scale phenomena to optimize energy conversion devices. ... Buie's work on microbial fuel cells is just one effort of many at LEMI, where projects draw upon fields including microfluidics, electrokinetics, electrochemistry, and microscale surface engineering. In addition
(PR NewsWire/Illinois Corn Marketing Board) Land attributable to ethanol will drop from current 25% to as little as 11% of U.S. corn acres A too common error made in reporting the amount of land used for U.S. ethanol production is to measure
(University of Wisconsin-Madison/Biomass Magazine) What began 20 years ago as an innovation to improve paper industry processes and dairy forage digestibility may now open the door to a much more energy- and cost-efficient way to convert biomass into fuel. ... Poplar trees,
by Ker Than( Stanford University/Biomass Magazine) Growing agave and other carefully chosen plants amid photovoltaic panels could allow solar farms not only to collect sunlight for electricity but also to produce crops for biofuels, according to new computer models by Stanford
By Olatomiwa Bifarin* (Advanced Biofuel USA) If the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) systematic analysis study of 2010 is anything to go by, then by the time you are done reading this article about 35 people would probably be dead
(Aston University/Biomass Magazine) A sustainable biofuel made from Norwegian forest wood waste could help transform the shipping industry and reduce global greenhouse gas emissions. Alternative sustainable fuels are urgently needed in the marine transport sector due to stringent upcoming regulations demanding
(Forum News Service/SC Times) Opportunities to provide bio-based industrial products exist, but they probably will need to provide price, utility and environmental benefits, especially if they want to compete at a premium to petrochemical substitutes, according to a recent industry
by Sarah Mason (Arizon State University Light Works) The similarities between the U.S. Navy and civilian cities and industry may not be readily apparent, said Dennis McGinn, U.S. Navy Assistant Secretary for Energy, Installations and Environment, but in the realm of
by Brett Israel (Georgia Institute of Technology) When making cellulosic ethanol from plants, one problem is what to do with a woody agricultural waste product called lignin. The old adage in the pulp industry has been that one can make
by Kelly Taylor (Chronicle Herald Wheels) It’s a breakthrough that has eluded engine researchers for more than a century. Now, it might be as little as five years away. ... The dream of using diesel’s compression-ignition idea — where the air-fuel mixture
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) It’s a capex figure so low that it sounds like a decimal point is missing. Though early-stage and just developing data out of its pilot — it’s well worth seeing what Sustainable Ethanol Technologies is
by Arthur J. Ragauskas, Gregg T. Beckham, Mary J. Biddy, Richard Chandra, Fang Chen, Mark F. Davis, Brian H. Davison, Richard A. Dixon, Paul Gilna, Martin Keller, Paul Langan, Amit K. Naskar, Jack N. Saddler, Timothy J. Tschaplinski, Gerald A. Tuskan,
by (University of Waterloo) Media are invited to attend as researchers from Waterloo and Bordeaux gather to create a bio-chemistry program that will support research into sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. The University of Waterloo and Université de Bordeaux also begin a longer
by Stacy Shackford (Cornell Chronicle) ... A $499,998 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture – one of two awarded to Cornell as part of a $12 million program – will allow researchers to delve
(Lab Canada) A University of Guelph scientist using genetics to improve Ontario’s most valuable crop has received nearly $2 million in government and industry support. Prof. Istvan Rajcan, Department of Plant Agriculture, was recently awarded a Collaborative Research and Development Grant
(Associated Press/The Republic) Purdue University is teaming up with the U.S. Navy on a project to help the military tap into alternative power sources. Purdue President Mitch Daniels and U.S. Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus signed an agreement Thursday to work together to
by Cory Nealon (University at Buffalo) Investigating how latent pesticides affect public health. Creating window coatings that reduce buildings’ heating and cooling costs. Developing policies to promote land conservation. Examining what incentives prompt people to buy hybrid cars. These seemingly disparate
(Vermont Technical College) Vermont Business Leader Urges State to Keep Momentum on Energy Goals Vermont Tech announced today that David Blittersdorf, well-known renewable energy entrepreneur and president and Chief Executive Officer of Williston-based AllEarth Renewables, has committed $120,000 to support the
by Layne Cameron, Curtis Wilkerson, Krista Eastman and John Ralph (Michigan State University/Renewable Energy World) What began 20 years ago as an innovation to improve paper industry processes and dairy forage digestibility may now open the door to a much
by Janet Pelley (Chemical and Engineering News) Energy: New study looks at the contested effects of increased shale gas production on the release of greenhouse gases The rapid expansion of shale gas production in the U.S. has triggered a polarizing debate:
by Bill Chameides (Duke University) ... Recently, NOAA’s Earth System Research Laboratory released its Annual Greenhouse Gas Index, “a measure of the warming influence of long-lived trace gases and how that influence is changing each year.” The data presented on methane is striking and
(University of Florida) University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences researchers working to produce ethanol from plant material are taking a hard look at eucalyptus as a possible source for the clean fuel. Joe Sagues, director of operations at the UF’s Stan
(The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association/Biodiesel Magazine) The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association today attended Farmers Cooperative Co.’s groundbreaking ceremony at the future site of its new Mount Ayr renewable fuels retail location that will offer higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel
(University of Liverpool) ... Agave sisalana is aproposed biofuel plant that can be grown in semi-arid conditions unsuited to food crops. This plant is already grown for fibre in countries like Brazil, Tanzania, Kenya and Madagascar. Sisal fibre has traditionally been used for marine
(California Institute of Technology) A new $15 million gift by Lynda and Stewart Resnick in support of the Resnick Sustainability Institute at Caltech will help scientists and engineers advance research aimed at helping humanity sustainably meet its needs for energy, food, clean
by Will Dunham (Reuters Africa) ... The scientists said their process turns carbon monoxide gas into liquid ethanol with the help of an electrode made of a form of copper. They said the new technique may be more environmentally friendly and efficient
by Henry Fountain (The New York Times) ... “Biodiesel is made from all sorts of fats and oils,” said Ben Evans of the National Biodiesel Board, a trade group based in Washington. While oils made from soybeans, rapeseed and other plants
Tomorrow (April 25, 2014), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Deputy Administrator Bob Perciasepe will open the USA Science and Engineering Festival, which hosts student teams from colleges and universities across the country who exhibit sustainable projects and compete for EPA’s
(Algae Industry Magazine) Students from three Arizona universities will demonstrate their algae research projects at an Innovation Showcase May 1, in Arizona State University’s Sun Devil Fitness Complex, and again during a formal public presentation workshop on “Using Wastewater for
(U.S Department Of Energy) The Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) regularly engages fellows in the sciences through the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Science & Technology Policy Fellowship program. The program provides opportunities for scientists and engineers to gain
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Alberta’s Grand Challenge on carbon — Liquid Light, Enerkem among 24 winners picking up $500,000 seed grants in first round. Next round will result in up to five $3M grants in 2018, and $10M to
(Coalition for Sustainable Rail) The Coalition for Sustainable Rail (CSR) announced April 14 that it is initiating research on conversion of used railroad ties into an advanced biofuel. This research, funded through a generous grant from the Indiana Rail Road (INRD),
By Nahla Nainer (The Hindu) On International Women’s Day, Dr. M. Premalatha, associate professor at the Centre for Energy and Environmental Science and Technology (CEESAT), NIT-T in Tiruchi India explains why more female science students should opt for research in this
By Moseti Wilfred M (Akgulian.com) An application has been made to the government to approve field trials to be conducted of genetically modified crop containing omega-3 fatty acids that are normally found in oily fish. If it is approved then the
by Jennifer A. Dlouhy (FuelFix) Researchers found higher-than-expected emissions of a potent greenhouse gas emanating from Pennsylvania wells, according to a study published Monday that adds to concerns about the environmental footprint of natural gas. The study, conducted by Purdue and Cornell universities
by Ker Than (Stanford University/Biomass Magazine) rowing agave and other carefully chosen plants amid photovoltaic panels could allow solar farms not only to collect sunlight for electricity but also to produce crops for biofuels, according to new computer models by
(NYU Langone Medical Center/Biomass Magazine) An international team of scientists led by Jef Boeke, director of NYU Langone Medical Center’s Institute for Systems Genetics, has synthesized the first functional chromosome in yeast, an important step in the emerging field of synthetic biology,
by Richard Van Noorden (Science Magazine) The poplars in the greenhouse near John Ralph’s laboratory show no outward signs of weakness, but they have a secret soft spot. Thanks to genetic engineering, their wood contains an artificial molecule that makes it
(7DaysInDubai) Scientists have created a new fuel from the fat wastage of slaughtered lambs. The boffins, from UAE University, have invented a new way to extract lamb fat and turn it into biodiesel that can be used in cars and
(RT.com) Scientists have scored a breakthrough in high-energy biofuels by producing a bacterium that synthesizes highly-efficient pinene, a hydrocarbon made by trees. It could soon replace existing alternatives and usher in a new era of rocket engines. Researchers have struggled for
By Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) Researchers reported on a novel method this week at the 247th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, to produce biodiesel from crude animal fats, including waste fat from alligators, using supercritical methanol in a flow reactor. “Conversion
Stephen Sarria , Betty Wong , Hector García Martín , Jay D. Keasling, and Pamela Peralta-Yahya (ACS Synthetic Biology) The volumetric heating values of today’s biofuels are too low to power energy-intensive aircraft, rockets, and missiles. Recently, pinene dimers were
(Oklahoma State University/Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... Hasan Atiyeh, assistant professor in biosystems and agricultural engineering, recently received a South Central Sun Grant Award to advance the development of a new hybrid conversion process. “The hybrid gasification-syngas fermentation technology, when further developed, has
(Extension.org) Grown for biofuel, energy-efficient shrub willow sequesters carbon below-ground, life-cycle assessment shows. Shrub willow is a short-rotation woody biomass crop that could be an important part of our renewable energy future. By sequestering carbon in below-ground biomass, it can
by Phillip Fiorini and Cynthia Sequin (Purdue University) Purdue University researchers are launching a company focusing on an innovative process that could revolutionize how lignocellulosic biomass is used to make biofuels and other bio-based products and chemicals. Spero Energy Inc., which is based
by Chris Hanson (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Researchers from Michigan State University, U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory published the largest soil DNA sequencing effort. “The Great Prairie represents the largest expanse of the world’s most
(Utah State University) The Algae Test & Evaluation Facility (AT&E) was established in collaboration with Logan City Environmental Department and Utah State University as a pilot facility co-located at the City of Logan Wastewater Treatment Plant. The AT&E site has
(Process Engineering) Scientists at the University of Porto are currently developing water-free methods to produce biodiesel using waste vegetable oils, animal fats and fatty wastes derived from industrial processes. Traditional methods of biodiesel production use large volumes of water to remove
by David Schwartz (Algae Industry Magazine) A new report issued by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) ranked 28 Algae Technology Area projects. Dr. Mark Hildebrand and his team at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego
(Biomass Magazine) Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a process that uses gamma valerolactone (GVL) to deconstruct plants and produce sugars that can be chemically or biologically upgraded into biofuels. The team is expected to begin scaling up
by Anna Simet (Ethanol Producer Magazine) According to a new paper authored by two University of Missouri professors, rural regions are poised to benefit from bioenergy. While remoteness is a penalty in the centralized petroeconomy, due to high power transmission and
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