by Lura Roti (SDPB Radio) Results from a recent University of Nebraska Study could dramatically increase demand for ethanol. This is optimistic news for South Dakota corn farmers, ethanol manufacturers and family farm advocates. Redefining Renewable Fuels was a year-long study conducted by researchers from the University of Nebraska Department of Chemical
Vehicle/Engine
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Today, a special look at new hard data on EVs vs IC engines — what the recent Wall Street Journal review missed! It was an exclusive to the DigestConnect last week but here’s your chance to see the full slides on emissions, fuels, octane, mileage,
(Cummins Inc./3BL Media) When Cummins’ Chief Technical Officer thinks about the global power leader’s aspiration to be carbon neutral by 2050, he’s inspired by the industry’s past success fighting smog. “What gives me confidence that we’re actually going to be able to get there is looking in the rear-view mirror and
(ExxonMobil/Porsche/Business Newswire) ExxonMobil and Porsche are testing advanced biofuels and renewable, lower-carbon eFuels, as part of a new agreement to find pathways toward potential future consumer adoption. The first iteration of Esso Renewable Racing Fuel is a blend of primarily advanced biofuels and is specially formulated by ExxonMobil’s in-house team of scientists
by Ahmed Abdellah* (Advanced Biofuels USA) This video presentation compares the carbon footprint of school buses retrofitted with a system to enable use of 100% biodiesel with electric buses. It uses a case study of a proposal for 100% biodiesel school buses for Howard County, Maryland, public schools using the
(Argus Media) Brazil’s ethanol industry is working with the automotive industry to develop hybrid and hydrogen fuel-cell cars that run on the biofuel, bucking a global trend toward plug-in electric vehicles. “There’s a lot of talk about electric cars – they have good marketing,” says Andre Rocha, president of Goias state
(South Dakota Farmers Union) If 10 percent of Nebraskans fueled up their non-flex fuel vehicles with 30 percent ethanol, CO2 emissions would decrease by 64,000 tons per year. This is according to results of a year-long University of Nebraska Study, Redefining Renewable Fuels, released February 2021. If these same Nebraskans fueled
by Angeli Mehta (Reuters Events) While there’s debate over whether the technology stacks up against batteries for long-distance trucking, the case in maritime usage seems more clear-cut. Angeli Mehta reports “Everyone loves hydrogen,” observed Fatih Birol, executive director of the International Energy Agency (IAE), recently during a recent conference called to discuss an
(Neste) A team of aerospace specialists has launched the world’s first in-flight emissions study using 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on a wide-body commercial passenger aircraft. Airbus, German research centre DLR, Rolls-Royce and SAF producer Neste have teamed up to start the pioneering ‘Emission and Climate Impact of Alternative Fuels’ (ECLIF3)
(Stena Bulk) Electric, modular hybrid bulk carrier designed to meet the world’s need for sustainable, zero carbon, efficient, and flexible seaborne transportation. — Leading tanker shipping company Stena Bulk has today unveiled its concept InfinityMAX hybrid bulk carrier design, pushing the boundaries for zero carbon, multi-modal vessel design in shipping.
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts on March 8 announced that ground-breaking research conducted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with support from the Nebraska Department of Administrative Services clearly demonstrates that E30 is safe for long-term use in non-flex fuel vehicles (FFVs). “The research partnership between the
(Honeywell/CISION) New system to combine flight-proven auxiliary power unit with high-efficiency generator — Honeywell (NYSE: HON) announced it is developing a power source for hybrid-electric aircraft, planned for demonstration later this year. At 280 pounds, the Honeywell 1-Megawatt generator weighs about the same as a motor scooter but delivers enough energy to
(National Biodiesel Board) 2021 NTEA Fleet Purchasing Outlook Reveals Strong Demand for Biodiesel Among Fleets — In a multitude of ways, the past year has drawn into sharp focus the important interrelationships between public health, the environment, and the economy. Yet through all the challenges presented by a global pandemic, extreme
(Clean Fuels Development Coalition) The Clean Fuels Development Coalition (CFDC) today applauded the work of the State of Nebraska following the release of a report that found higher ethanol blends are safe, efficient, and cost effective when used in conventional vehicles. The yearlong demonstration involved 50 non-flex fuel vehicles (non-FFVs) from
by Rusty Halvorson (KFGO) Speaking at the National Farmers Union National Convention February 26, 2021, South Dakota Chapter President Doug Sombke said ethanol advocates need to prioritize support for a high octane standard in the new fuel economy rule that could triple demand for ethanol over the next decade. Sombke and NFU
(Chinese Academy of Science Headquarters/EurekAlert!) Researchers from the Institute of Process Engineering (IPE) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Nanjing Normal University recently reported a strategy for boosting the electrocatalytic performance of palladium (Pd) in ethanol oxidation reaction, the key anodic reaction of direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs), offering a
(Association of American Railroads) … And AAR and its members have formed a dedicated working group to understand new lower-or-zero-carbon fuel technologies and other climate-related issues … Another potential fuel source is “blue hydrogen,” which is hydrogen made from natural gas in a way that captures, stores, or reuses associated
(National Renewable Energy Laboratory) From Passenger Cars to Commercial Trucks, Aircraft, Marine, Rail, and Mobility Systems, NREL’s Whole-System Approach Ensures a Sustainable, Resilient, and Equitable Climate Future — The transportation sector is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, accounting for about 28% of total carbon emissions.
(Maersk) Fast-tracked by advances in technology and increasing customer demand for sustainable supply chains, A.P. Moller – Maersk accelerates the efforts to decarbonise marine operations with the launch of the world’s first carbon neutral liner vessel in 2023 – seven years ahead of the initial 2030-ambition. All future Maersk owned
(ClearFlame Engine Technologies) ClearFlame Engine Technologies, a startup dedicated to the development of clean engine technology for the heavy-duty truck, off-highway and industrial markets, was selected as a finalist in the Smart Cities, Transportations & Logistics category for the 11th annual SXSW Pitch®. SXSW Pitch is the marquee event of
by Larry Lee (Brownfield Ag News) More tests are underway to potentially expand E15 ethanol use in California. Tom Gillis is on the Wisconsin Corn Promotion Board and the National Corn Growers Ethanol Action Group. He says, “As we speak, there is a test going on in California, and it’s run
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Finland, a partnership led by VTT and Neste aimed at using sustainable electricity and sequestered carbon dioxide to make fuels received €3.3M (about $4 million USD) in funding from Business Finland. Altogether, EUR 6 million (about $7.2 million USD) is invested in the development
(Urban Air Initiative) A new study is underway to determine whether corn based ethanol makes a larger contribution to the reduction of GHG emissions than it is currently receiving credit. The Urban Air Initiative commissioned a study with Transport Energy Strategies to look at the impact ethanol has on carbon reduction in the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Mike Kass shared this illuminating slide guide at ABLC 2020 as part of the marine and heavy duty biofuel opportunities panel. Dive into marine cargo vessel fuels, the advantages of using biofuels in the maritime sector, feedstock conversion routes, some biofuel
by Ronan Glon (AutoBlog/Yahoo!)Karma Automotive has focused on developing plug-in hybrid and electric cars since it was born from the ashes of Fisker in 2014. It’s still planning on releasing an electric sedan named GSe-6, but it announced that it’s in the early stages of designing a powertrain that will allow it to create a vehicle
(Diesel Technology Forum) … As we envision a greater national focus on attacking climate change in the coming year, advanced diesel engines and biodiesel and renewable diesel must be included as key strategies. They are available, affordable, proven and deliver substantial near-term reductions in greenhouse gas and other emissions across

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) is hosting the 2021 Project Peer Review on March 8-16, 2021 and March 22-26, 2021 that will be held virtually on Zoom. Approximately 300 projects in BETO’s research, development, and demonstration portfolio will be presented to the public and systematically reviewed by
by Sarah George (edie.net/Eurative) Boeing has already completed one commercial flight using 100% biofuel in 2018 –Boeing Co has unveiled plans to deliver commercial aircraft capable of using 100% biofuel by 2030. Using existing technologies under current regulations, it can only use biofuel blends of up to 50%, EURACTIV’s media partner,
(National Biodiesel Board/Biodiesel Magazine) … Time is of the essence as OEMs and fleets across the country take a fresh look at the use of low-carbon biodiesel and renewable diesel to help reduce emissions in their new and legacy diesel vehicles and equipment and help to slow the progression of climate
by Sara Wyant (Ag Week) The biofuel industry argues that President-elect Joe Biden can also make progress on his climate goals by expanding biofuel usage mandates, embracing a low carbon fuel policy and increasing vehicle emissions standards. Now that Democrats have won control of the Senate, climate legislation is inevitable,
by Alice Keefe (WMTW) … BluShift had planned to launch the rocket from the former Loring Air Force Base in Limestone, but the launch was scrubbed Friday afternoon. The rocket launch will likely be rescheduled to Tuesday or Wednesday. WMTW spoke with bluShift about its unique rocket on Thursday. “This
(Libertine) Libertine FPE (“Libertine”), the creator of Smart Engine technology for hybrid electric vehicles and distributed power generation, has demonstrated technology that could help leading truck manufacturers to fulfil pledges to make all heavy-duty vehicles fossil free by 2040. With Libertine’s technology, hybrid heavy-duty powertrains using a combination of renewable grid
by Mike Roeth (Advanced Clean Tech News) … Industrial use of hydrogen must increase for end-users like energy power plants, chemical industries, steelmakers, and others if hydrogen is to scale quickly, and realistically. And the scaling of hydrogen is not the only domino that needs to fall in place for
(Oak Ridge National Laboratory/Biomass Magazine) As Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s fuel properties technical lead for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Co-Optimization of Fuel and Engines, or Co-Optima, initiative, Jim Szybist has been on a quest for the past few years to identify the most significant indicators for predicting how a fuel
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) As we look to the future with a new year, Deloitte and Ballard are looking at fueling the future of mobility with hydrogen and fuel cells, which makes sense considering hydrogen is the single most abundant substance in the universe. Their white paper dives into
(India Times Energy World) ISRO Chairman said that the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is looking at green propulsion through hydrogen peroxide in its rocket that would take Indians into the space under its ‘Gaganyaan’ mission. The Indian space rockets are set to go green as ISRO is working to replace its
(University of Louisiana at Lafayette) An energy storage and power generation system being designed at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette could make flying the friendly skies less harmful to the environment. Solid oxide fuel cells are “a key component” within that system, said Dr. Xiao-Dong Zhou. Their inclusion in
by Martin Tomlinson (Volvo Trucks) Asda is taking delivery of 202 Volvo FH LNG tractor units in the run-up to Christmas peak trading, in what is believed to be the single largest order ever placed in the UK for heavy trucks running on renewable fuels. The supermarket has ambitions to
(Aemetis/Ethanol Producer Magazine) … High-capacity electric vehicles (HCEV’s) from Nevo Motors are designed for heavy cargo and long range by using on-board range extender generators powered by renewable natural gas (RNG), with future electric truck models designed to use patented hydrogen and ethanol range extenders. The goal is to achieve major
by Ed Adamczyk (UPI) A plan to use sustainable sources for up to 50 percent of military aviation fuel was announced by British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace this week. The British Ministry of Defense on Saturday said it would look to algae, alcohol, household waste, wood and biomass as potential sources of fuel for the
by Teemu Jutila (Auramarine/Biofuels Digest) The marine fuel market is developing and expanding at an unprecedented rate, set against the backdrop of IMO decarbonisation targets; 50% reduction in emissions from 2008 levels by 2050, and a minimum reduction in carbon intensity per transport work of 40% by 2030, compared with 2008
(Advanced Biofuels Coalition) … The signatories of this joint letter represent a crucial part of the automotive, fuel, energy industry and civil society in Europe, i.e. a combined force behind the transformation of EU mobility towards climate neutrality in a smart and sustainable way. The European Union has set itself
(Oak Ridge National Laboratory) As Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s fuel properties technical lead for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Co-Optimization of Fuel and Engines, or Co-Optima, initiative, Jim Szybist has been on a quest for the past few years to identify the most significant indicators for predicting how a fuel
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) There are concrete benefits of using BioLNG to decarbonize hard to abate transport sectors like heavy-duty transport and shipping, according to the latest European Biogas Association, Gas Infrastructure Europe, the Natural & Bio Gas Vehicle Association, and SEA-LNG joint paper. The EU production of BioLNG
by Toby Gill (Intelligent Power Generation/Green Car Congress) With battery storage able to provide a unique role in balancing a renewable electricity grid, Toby Gill, CEO of Intelligent Power Generation, asks could innovations in green hydrogen and biofuel technologies contribute to a more optimized and economical energy mix? The growth of
by John Herath (AgWeb) The headlines were head-turning: an American made supercar had punched through the 300 mph barrier on a seven-mile stretch of empty road outside of Las Vegas. While the 331 mph top speed reported by the SSC Tuatara is now in question, there is no disputing the secret sauce
(NGV America/NGV Journal) NGVAmerica released another study at its Annual Industry Summit presenting a compelling case for why communities should continue to invest in new near-zero natural gas technology. Using New Jersey as a case study, NGVAmerica analyzed the costs and impact of transitioning that state’s entire 10,000 refuse truck fleet
(Landi Renzo/Business Wire) The ecomobility revolution includes F-450/550, F-650/750, F-53/59 and E-450 — Landi Renzo, the American subsidiary of Landi Renzo Group, the global leader in eco-fuel advanced systems for the automotive industry received California Air Resources Board (CARB) Certification for the Heavy Duty Ford CNG/RNG 7.3L engine, which covers Class
(Bio Engine Technology) The engineers at Bio Engine Technology Ltd are dedicated to a simple but effective solution. They are developing an engine, matched to a clean organic fuel, which will not add damaging gases or harmful particulates into the atmosphere. The engine is based on the effective Rankine Cycle.
(U.S. Department of Energy) The Co-Optimization of Fuels & Engines (Co-Optima) initiative focuses on developing new high-performance fuels that, when combined with advanced combustion approaches, can boost engine efficiency and cut emissions. Co-Optima seeks proposals to leverage National Laboratory resources and overcome key technical challenges to advancing new liquid fuels
(WebWire) Ground tests with 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to demonstrate Rolls-Royce engines can unlock SAF’s potential to reduce emissions — As part of its ongoing decarbonisation strategy, Rolls-Royce is to use 100% sustainable aviation fuel for the first time in engine ground tests on next-generation engine technology. The tests will
(Munich Airport/NGV Journal) The Association of the German Gas Industry has awarded this year’s Innovation Prize in the “Mobility & Transport” category to the pilot test of a passenger bus that is used at Munich Airport and runs on LNG. The “Gas Innovations for the Energy Turnaround” project was developed in
(Maryland Energy Innovation Institute) In the latest round of funding, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced $18.5M as part of the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy’s (ARPA-E) Range Extenders for Electric Aviation with Low Carbon and High Efficiency (REEACH) program. The REEACH program objective is to develop a disruptive system to convert the chemical energy contained in
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) Partnership Watch: Lummus Technology, New Hope Technologies In Texas, Lummus Technology and New Hope Technologies today announced that the companies have entered into a cooperation agreement for the marketing and further development of a leading plastic waste conversion technology based on thermal pyrolysis. The
(Bioenergy Insight) The new Volkswagen Golf TGI is equipped with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine and three natural gas fuel tanks, which can utilise biomethane. The tanks are integrated into the underbody and permit a range of approximately 400 kilometres in pure natural gas mode. The engine of the ‘quasi-monovalent’ drive
(Urban Air Initiative/Ethanol Producer Magazine) The future of vehicle emission testing is at our fingertips, literally. The use of portable emissions measurements systems (PEMS) is growing in popularity because it’s an accurate and consistent way to test emissions for real world driving conditions and real world fuels. Before PEMS, the only
(ClearFlame) Company’s clean engine technology drives reductions in particulate, CO2 emissions without complex aftertreatment systems — ClearFlame Engine Technologies, a start-up dedicated to the development of clean engine technology for the heavy-duty truck, off-highway and industrial markets, today announced that it has successfully matched the torque and power of a commercial
(Porsche) Although synthetic fuels are considered a realistic alternative to make car traffic more climate-friendly, availability is poor. Porsche wants to change this. “With electricity alone, you can’t move forward fast enough,” says Michael Steiner, who is in charge of R&D at Porsche. In the future, Porsche wants to significantly
(LifePR) The project “Formation of deposits and prevention of deposits of biodiesel” carried out at the University of Rostock shows that the use of biodiesel in modern engine systems leads not only to the reduction of greenhouse gases, particles and hydrocarbon emissions but also to the prevention of internal diesel
by Michael Bates (NGT News) The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has officially launched the Million Mile Fuel Cell Truck (M2FCT) and the H2NEW consortia to advance fuel cell truck and hydrogen production R&D. The announcement builds upon DOE’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Office’s (EERE’s) intention to invest up to $100 million over
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Today’s top story is all about hydrogen and fuel cell technology, and how Ballard is working in this fast-growing market with the company’s focus on electrification of Heavy- and Medium-Duty Motive applications. Tony Guglielmin, Vice President and CFO of Ballard shared a 184 page slide guide
by Timothy J. Rudnicki (Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) What would it take to cut petroleum use by at least 85 percent in the near term? What vehicle powertrain can use two renewable sources of energy and on one fill provide a range greater than 450 miles? It’s the plug-in flex fuel hybrid vehicle. As
by James P.Szybist, StephenBusch, Robert L.McCormick, Josh A.Pihl, Derek A.Splitter, Matthew A.Ratcliff, Christopher P.Kolodziej, John M.E.Storey, MelanieMoses-DeBusk, DavidVuilleumier, MagnusSjöberg, C. ScottSluder, TobyRockstroh, PaulMiles (Progress in Energy and Combustion Science/Science Direct) The Co-Optimization of Fuels and Engines (Co-Optima) initiative from the US Department of Energy aims to co-develop fuels and engines
(U.S. Department of Energy) The U.S. Department of Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) hosted the 2019 Project Peer Review on March 4–7, 2019, in Denver, Colorado. During the event, 447 projects in BETO’s research portfolio were presented in 14 simultaneous review sessions and two poster sessions. Projects were systematically reviewed by
by Kathiann M. Kowalski (Energy News Network) The Midwest is ready for takeoff as a leader in cleaner aviation, thanks to researchers in Ohio and elsewhere and a cleantech startup in Illinois. — Just as Ohioans pioneered aircraft flight more than a century ago, researchers there and elsewhere in the Midwest are
by Peter Valdes-Dapena (CNN Business) Hyperion, a California-based company, has unveiled a hydrogen-powered supercar the company hopes will change the way people view hydrogen fuel cell technology. The Hyperion XP-1 will be able to drive for up to 1,000 miles on one tank of compressed hydrogen gas and its electric
(U.S. Department of Energy) The U.S. Department of Energy’s Co-Optimization of Fuels & Engines (Co-Optima) initiative explores how simultaneous innovations in fuels and engines can boost fuel economy and vehicle performance while reducing emissions. Co-Optima researchers publish their latest scientific findings in journal articles, conference papers, technical reports, presentations, and fact sheets. Thirteen new
by Michael Bates (NGT News) Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) says the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded over $7.1 million in funding to three projects advancing clean automotive transportation technologies supported by the utility. SoCalGas’ Research, Development & Demonstration department will provide $730,000 in additional funding for the projects, which are led
by Jackie Pohlman (Renewable Fuels Association) What began as one high school junior’s passion project has gone on to win science fair accolades and capture our attention here at RFA for its demonstration of ethanol’s versatility in engines of all sizes. John Horangic, a junior at Bishop Brady High School in
(Biofuels Digest) Recorded presentations for your on-demand review and enjoyment. Just Pick and Click! On BioChannelTV RENEWABLE DIESEL & DME Saola Energy – Adam Belyamani Axens- David Schwalje Oberon – Rebecca Boudreaux Honeywell UOP-Dan Szeezil NextChem-Valerio Coppini Velocys – Jeff McDaniel ENGINE TECH What if everything with a diesel
(Urban Air Initiative) A new tool is available for researchers to help ensure accurate and consistent results when conducting fuel and emission testing. Future Fuel Strategies recently published a Fuel Blending Guide for Ethanol: Identifying Sound Practices for Acquiring or Blending Fuels for Studies of Emissions Changes. The Urban Air Initiative (UAI)
(ClearFlame) Funding will support R&D for clean engine technology on heavy-duty engines — ClearFlame Engine Technologies, a start-up company dedicated to the development of clean engine technology, has been awarded a two-year, $1.1 million Phase II grant from the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … New research shows sustainability has moved from a fringe preference into a core imperative across American life. According to a new survey from clean manufacturing leader Genomatica, 56% of Americans want brands and government to prioritize sustainability even amid health and economic turmoil, and 85%of Americans
by Ilana Marcus (Washington Post) … Silicon Valley start-up called ZeroAvia, envisions a future of passenger planes that fly on hydrogen-powered electricity, not jet fuel. … Miftakhov’s Piper was powered by batteries, but his company is working on integrating a hydrogen fuel cell for aviation. … Think about the hydrogen
by Doug Sombke and Jim Seurer (South Dakota Farmers Union/Glacial Lakes Energy/Argus Leader) During President Trump’s Fourth of July visit to Mount Rushmore, our organizations sponsored an ad in the Rapid City Journal that urged the President to “tear down the wall” that his Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has unlawfully erected to
by Dick Hagen (The Land) … So where does E85 fit into this challenge? As the fuel for a small internal combustion engine perched somewhere in your electric car which can be cranked up periodically as you motor across America. Once employed, this small engine then recharges your car battery
(Renewable Energy Group) The city snowplows in Ames, Iowa, have worked in all types of winter weather. Blizzards. Ice. Subzero temperatures. You name it, they’ve been out in it. In early 2020, they did something they’ve never done before: run on fully renewable fuel. Using a simple, affordable piece of technology,
(OptiFuel) OptiFuel Systems, a system integrator of Cummins and BAE Systems hybrid power products for decarbonizing the rail, marine, and microgrid power market, is in the process of finalizing a $2.6 million U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) grant to demonstrate a pre-production near-zero emission renewable natural gas hybrid 4,300 hp
(Praj Industries) Praj Industries (Praj) and Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) have entered into MoU to jointly drive application development of advanced biofuels that will find usage in industry and transportation. Biofuels developed for the mobility sector will have a positive impact on environment by way of reduced carbon
(GreenAir Online) A hydrogen-powered short-range commercial passenger aircraft could be flying within Europe by 2035, finds a major new study commissioned by the EU’s public-private Clean Sky 2 and Fuel Cells & Hydrogen Joint Undertakings. The published report concludes hydrogen propulsion has the potential to significantly reduce aviation’s climate impact. However,
by Luke Chillingsworth (Express) Classic car owners may find that new E10 fuel changes set to be introduced next year actually helps cars to ‘run better’ instead of doing damage. — Classic car owners may find the new petrol makes cars “less likely” to do themselves less damage than current
by Matt Thompson (Ethanol Producer Magazine) A novel engine technology could make it possible for ethanol to be used in compression-ignition engines, opening up a potential multi-billion-gallon market. With $3 million in financing secured, Clear Flame Engines is poised for commercialization. — It sounds almost too good to be true,
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) just released a new report that outlines five specific, yet broadly applicable, areas of focus to reduce costs in an integrated biorefinery. This analysis builds upon ongoing R&D strategies to lower the minimum fuel selling price of biofuels to approach $2
by David Iaconangelo (E&E News) The grid may still be too coal-heavy in some parts of the United States for electric vehicles to be a better option for local air quality than gas cars, according to an analysis published yesterday by scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and Stanford University.
(U.S. Department of Energy) Today (July 2, 2020), the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced the selection of seven projects totaling $1.94 million to conduct research and development to accelerate the adoption of performance-advantaged biofuel blendstocks. These fuels are derived from renewable feedstocks, and can deliver exceptional efficiency with low emissions.
by Robert Kozak* (Atlantic Biomass/Advanced Biofuels USA) I was sad to see an obituary today for the great engineer John J. Mooney. Who was John J. Mooney you ask? He was the co-inventor of both the 2-way and the 3-way motor vehicle catalytic converter. The “3-way cat,” as it is referred
by Michael Bates (NGT News) The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has revealed its intention to invest up to $100 million over five years in two new DOE National Laboratory-led consortia to advance hydrogen and fuel cell technologies research and development (R&D). This funding is subject to appropriations. “Hydrogen and fuel cell
(Polish Academy of Sciences/EurekAlert!) Scientists working at the Department for Functional Nanomaterials at the Institute of Nuclear Physics of the Polish Academy of Sciences designed and synthesized a functional ternary Pt/Re/SnO2/C catalyst as an anode material in a direct ethanol fuel cell. It was possible by synthesizing platinum, rhenium and tin
by Peter Sopher (Clean Energy Ventures/Biofuels Digest) … BloombergNEF forecast shows that the 2040 market penetration of these EVs remains a relatively small proportion of the overall fleet, especially for heavy commercial vehicles. To meet our greenhouse gas mitigation goals and impending state and national emissions regulations, we need new solutions
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) If you haven’t heard of Co-Optima, you should! This U.S. DOE initiative is tackling fuel and engine research and development to maximize vehicle fuel economy – key for biofuels! From mapping lower-cost pathways to reduce emissions while developing knowledge that can be used to leverage diverse
by Steve VanderGriend (Ethanol Producer Magazine/Urban Air Initiative) While much of the industry’s energy has been focused on issues like Reid vapor pressure relief, a new technical paper demonstrates the need to focus on aromatics, and the fact that ethanol can reduce the need for other carcinogenic octane enhancers. …
by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Energy may be just a block or two apart on Independence Avenue in Washington, D.C., but they are miles apart on their long-term outlook for ethanol. Seemingly disparate objectives make E30s future less clear. The good: The
by Tammy Klein (Future Fuel Strategies) On this episode of the Fueling the Future podcast, I spoke with Ortwin Costenoble, senior standarization consultant with the Royal Netherlands Standardization Institute (NEN) about the recent research project commissioned by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) entitled, “Engine tests with new types of biofuels and development of biofuel
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … We left the discussion with a hint about the potential conversion of methane to methanol, which can serve as a powerful chemical building block or, in China most prominently, as a fuel. We’ll pick up from that point today. Wolf Ron Cascone Here’s some background on methane
(Diesel Technology Institute) This segment explores the role of hybrid technologies. Disruptive trends are altering the future of mobility, work and societies at large. Connected vehicles, automated driving, shared ride services, and an anticipated shift to fully electric power for personal vehicles are all taking shape at some level. Where does
(Advanced Biofuels USA) Since 2011, one of Advanced Biofuels USA’s most popular publications has been “What’s the Difference between Biodiesel and Renewable (Green) Diesel?” The update of this paper has been expanded to answer the question, “What Renewable Fuels Can Be Used in Compression Ignition Engines?” This paper begins by
(The Maritime Executive) CMA CGM Group became the latest large shipping company to accelerate its goals to achieve carbon neutrality. Participating in the UN Global Compact conference, Chairman and CEO Rodolphe Saadé announced that the company’s objective is now to be carbon neutral by 2050. He also said that the
by T.Seljak, M.Buffi, A.Valera-Medina, C.T.Chong, D.Chiaramonti, T.Katrašnik (Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews) -A systematic and holistic assessment of relevant properties of bioliquids. -New technical advances of piston engines and micro gas turbines using bioliquids. -A detailed analysis of required power system adaptations imposed by bioliquids. -Future perspectives for power generation
(Empa/NGV Journal) By 2030, Lidl Switzerland wants to deliver its goods to all its stores without the use of fossil fuels. To achieve this goal, technological progress and cooperation between research, industry and the public authorities are essential. As part of the “Goodbye Diesel” project, the company has already invested in
(Department of Energy) While approximately 30% of today’s new cars can boast fuel economy of at least 30 miles per gallon, there is still the opportunity for further efficiency gains. Top scientists, engineers, and analysts with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Co-Optimization of Fuels & Engines (Co-Optima) initiative are examining how
by Elena Gorgan (Auto Evolution) … Vripack wants to show the world that a fully-sustainable megayacht can still be a stunner, and even push the envelope on naval design, to boot. In penning Futura, creative directors Bart Bouwhuis and Marnix Hoekstra operated on the idea that, if you want people to
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Toyota’s been working on a global environmental challenge – a new vehicle with zero CO2 emissions and plants with zero CO2 emissions. But how can they achieve what seems to be impossible? That’s where hydrogen and fuel cells come into play. Toyota’s been working on fuel cells
(GreenAir Online) Airbus and Rolls-Royce have announced an ending to their joint hybrid-electric E-Fan X demonstrator programme, a pioneering project directed towards the electrification of commercial passenger aircraft. A BAe 146 RJ100 test aircraft with one of its four jet engines replaced by a 2.5MW motor was due to embark on
by Lynne Roeder (Pacific Northwest National Laboratory) PNNL invention partitions ethanol from gasoline to enable octane on demand; could also lower emissions — … Designed to work with a car’s existing fuel, the onboard separation technology is the first to use chemistry—not a physical membrane—to separate ethanol-blended gasoline into high-
(Dresden University of Technology/Phys.Org) As a new class of porous materials, noble metal aerogels (NMAs) have drawn attention for their self-supported architectures, high surface areas and their many optically and catalytically active sites, enabling impressive performance in diverse fields. However, current fabrication methods suffer from long fabrication periods, unavoidable impurities,
(National Renewable Energy Laboratory) In the same manner that pocket calculators made math faster and easier, a new machine-learning tool developed at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has significantly speeded up calculating the thermodynamics of chemical reactions. Developed as part of the Department of Energy’s Co-Optimization of Fuels & Engines (Co-Optima)
by Chris Bliley (Growth Energy/Ethanol Producer Magazine) … When it comes to transportation emissions, newsrooms around the world generally preserve their biggest headlines for the urgent, high-stakes battle against climate change. Biofuels are a major part of that conversation, and the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports that
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … If you’ve noticed that DOE is taking on a much more fundamental bit of science than we’ve seen in the past decade — a move away from catalyzing demonstrations and scale-up and towards more fundamental questions that might unlock industry’s scale-up purse-strings via developing breakthroughs
by Nigel N. Clark, David L. McKain Jr., Tammy Klein and Terence Higgins (Journal of the Air & Waste Management Association) Emissions levels from current gasoline spark-ignited engines are low, and emissions changes associated with blending of ethanol into gasoline are small and difficult to quantify. Addition of ethanol, with a
by Helena Tavares Kennedy (Biofuels Digest) … In comes news of public-private investments, rural economic development and employment, and even human health. With two new executive position veteran hires, up to 8 new plant managers, and putting to use a $2.9 million 2019 grant from the California Energy Commission, how
(Yale/National University of Singapore College/EurekAlert!) A team of researchers from Yale-NUS College, in collaboration with scientists in Sweden, has found that bisulphate species in the exhaust stream are strongly connected to decreasing the effectiveness of exhaust remediation catalysts in diesel engines. Their findings pave the way for synthesising more sulphur-tolerant
(Nanyang Technological University) Singapore (NTU Singapore) and Singapore Maritime Institute (SMI) have launched a report that outlines how companies can use alternative fuels to power their ships. This will help them meet the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) long-term greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets of at least 50 per cent, compared
(Lloyds Register and University Maritime Advisory Services) … This paper is an example of this collaboration; it examines three important elements of zero-carbon fuels when compared with traditional fossil-based fuels. All candidate fuels considered in this paper have some emissions associated with them because of the ways they would be
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) As I write, the May contract for West Texas Intermediate is selling for -$40.21 a barrel, or a negative cost of $240 per tonne. Let’s put that in context, you can throw unmixed useless garbage into a US-based landfill for an average price of around $75
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In Sweden, the new Volvo self-charging buses with hybrid power, the “S-Charge” model range have been upgraded with new capabilities and can now drive silently and emission-free on electricity at higher speeds and cover longer distances than before. This creates new possibilities to use self-charging hybrid-electric powered buses
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) …Patented new technology uses commodity yellow grease without pre-processing or pre-heating requirements. Replaces #2 heating oil nearly volume for volume. … Yellow Heat biofuel burner operates on locally available yellow grease biofuel. World’s only central heating option that is proven carbon neutral. Zero net carbon footprint.
by Malcolm Latarche (ShipInsight) Netherlands-based Green Maritime Methanol consortium is to study the possibilities for renewable Green Methanol as a maritime transport fuel. Green Methanol is an important candidate as a future fuel for the shipping industry. It is widely available, can be produced in a sustainable way, is easily stored
(Mazda) Mazda is currently involved in joint research projects and studies as part of an ongoing industry-academia-government collaboration to promote the wide-spread adoption of biofuels from microalgae growth. As part of its ‘Sustainable Zoom-Zoom 2030’ long-term technology development programme, the company is committed to reducing its average ‘Well-to-Wheel’ CO2 emissions to 50%
(GreenAir Online) The first use of electric aircraft for domestic scheduled air travel in Norway is feasible by the end of the decade, finds a report by airport operator Avinor and the Norwegian CAA for the country’s government. If the right support and measures are put in place, the report
(Stena Bulk) During the coming weeks Stena Bulk will perform a test running an MR tanker on 100% biofuel. The fuel is the MR1-100 bio-fuel oil, produced from used cooking oil and supplied by GoodFuels in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. It has been bunkered onto the Stena Immortal and will be used
by Jonathan Noble (Motorsport.com) Formula 1’s switch to biofuels with its new generation of cars looks set to trigger a surprise development battleground thanks to a change it brings in engine cooling characteristics. As part of F1’s push for sustainability, new rules – which were originally coming in 2021 but have
(Wärtsilä) The technology group Wärtsilä has initiated combustion trials using ammonia. The research will help the company to prepare for the use of ammonia as a fuel that can contribute to reducing both the shipping’s and energy sectors’ greenhouse gas emissions. … Although ammonia is derived mainly from fossil sources
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Check out Part 3 of the National Biodiesel Board’s slide guide that delves into ASTM fuel specifications for biodiesel and fuel quality, biodiesel standards like BQ-9000, legislative updates impacting biodiesel demand and state policies, latest on OEM and fleet support for biodiesel. READ MORE Where’s
by John Farrell, Robert Wagner, Chris Moen and Dan Gaspar (U.S. Department of Energy) … For the past four years, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has been funding the CoOptimization of Fuels & Engines (Co-Optima) initiative, focused on identifying fuel properties and engine parameters that impact engine efficiency with the
(Safran) Safran Helicopter Engines is joining Euralis, Teréga, ACD (Aquitaine Chimie Durable), Chemparc, Agri Sud Ouest Innovation, Xylofutur, CCI Pau Béarn, Pau and Pays de l’Adour University and the Aerospace Valley consortium to study the feasibility of producing aviation biofuels in southwest France. A Letter Of Intent (LOI) has been signed
(Co-Optimization of Fuels & Engines (Co-Optima) initiative) The Co-Optimization of Fuels & Engines (Co-Optima) initiative focuses on developing new high-performance fuels that, when combined with advanced combustion approaches, can boost engine efficiency and cut emissions. To accelerate adoption of new fuels and blendstocks from renewable resources which enable higher efficiency and
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) When ClearFlame Engines CEO B.J. Johnson told ethanol industry representatives about the potential ethanol market for the company’s all-ethanol diesel engine, those at the recent National Ethanol Conference in Houston could have kissed him. While concerns continue about the future of the Renewable Fuel Standard
(Biofuels International) The company building the world’s fastest supersonic airliner, Boom Supersonic, has announced that is XB-1 test programme will be carbon neutral through the use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and carbon offsetting. Boom is the first commercial airplane manufacturer to commit to a carbon neutral test programme. The
(Office of Governor Pete Ricketts (R-NE)) Recently, Governor Pete Ricketts sent a letter to American automakers Fiat Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors, urging them to increase production of passenger vehicles designed to run on higher ethanol blends, such as E20, E30, E40, and E85. “If leading U.S. automobile companies take
(National Biodiesel Board) Wide range of organizations announce a partnership for validation project of biodiesel technology to demonstrate viability in real-world, high-mileage fleet applications — Innovative system allows for seamless 100 percent biodiesel use in all climates; Five ADM trucks to test Vector System, produced by Optimus Technologies, in real-world,
(APNews/BusinessWire/Landi Renzo) Landi Renzo USA, the American subsidiary of Landi Renzo Group, the global leader in eco-fuel systems for the automotive industry, announced an award of $600,000. This corresponds in funding of $300,000 from the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s (South Coast AQMD) Clean Fuel Funds and another $300,000 in
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) We all will die eventually, but one burial-garment designer and one bioengineer are thinking of future human burials on Mars with a new death garment made of four 100% biodegradable layers from silk and they plan to run experiments in which they dissolve the Martian death
(TechXplore/University of Central Florida) Biofuels offer potential benefits as renewable fuels with cleaner emissions, but with thousands of types of biofuels to choose from, it makes it hard for the energy sector to focus on just a few for further development. That’s why University of Central Florida researchers are working to
(WinGD) WinGD (Winterthur Gas & Diesel) has bolstered its investment in fuel research with the development of a flexible injection system. In a whitepaper released today, ‘Flexible Injector to Advance Alternative Fuels Research’, the engine designers describe how the concept will play a crucial role in its investigations into low-carbon
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) We are always trying to optimize – optimize processes, efficiencies, cost, value, and more, but did you know that the U.S. Department of Energy Bioenergy Technologies Office has a program just for this sort of thing? The ADO or Advanced Development and Optimization program has several
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) With 3 trillion vehicle miles in the U.S. and 11 billion freight tons, transportation is key to our way of life, and the Department of Energy realizes it hits our national energy usage in many ways. That’s why they are researching it all levels from components
(National Biodiesel Board) Attendees hear from industry leaders representing the Fuels Institute, the National Truck Equipment Association, and major OEMs — Attendees at the National Biodiesel Conference and Expo received an enlightening glimpse into the future as industry leaders from the Fuels Institute, the National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA), and major
by Bob Carruth (National Farmers Union Scotland) NFU Scotland is pursuing high level solutions to the machinery problems many Scottish and UK farmers have been experiencing linked to the biofuel content in fuel. Fuel is a reserved issue and the Union is therefore seeking support from both the Scottish and
(The Engineer/Specialized Imaging) Specialised Imaging reports that the Institute of Heat and Mass Transfer at RWTH Aachen University (Germany) has invested in a Kirana Ultra High-Speed camera to undertake fluid-mechanical fundamental research underpinning development of bio-hybrid fuels for the next generation of sustainable transportation. Groundbreaking research at the University of Aachen Fuel Science
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Dimethyl Ether – We know DME well, but do you know all of its advantages or about fuel-grade DME in North America? Did you know about Oberon Fuels’ small-scale DME production process and the latest on their pilot DME facility in Southern California? About Propane/DME
(National Biodiesel Board/Biodiesel Magazine) NYC requires all city fleet vehicles and equipment to use B20 biodiesel from April through November, and B5 from December through March. However, biodiesel has performed so successfully that the city has started some B20 use year-round. … In fact, NYC vehicles used more than 2
by Dave VanderGriend (Ethanol Producer Magazine/Urban Air Initiative/ICM) Mid-level blends are the future of the ethanol industry, and the U.S. government can’t be trusted to promote their use. … An overlooked provision in the recent rule allowing year-round sales of E15 caps ethanol blends at 15 percent by making
(South Dakota Farmers Union/Governors’ Biofuels Coalition) Following her remarks at the Glacial Lakes Energy annual shareholders meeting last week, a broad group of ethanol, agriculture, and clean air supporters commended South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem for her leadership in advancing 30% ethanol blends. Long considered the “sweet spot” for optimum ethanol
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The debate of who rules – ethanol or gasoline – has been going on seemingly forever. Why does this debate drive everyone nuts? Which has the lower energy density? Which has the lower mileage? Does range really matter? What’s octane worth? Is there an octane sweet
(LIFE Methamorphosis) LIFE Methamorphosis has launched two prototypes, UMBRELLA and METHAGRO, which operate under this principle. UMBRELLA is installed in the Ecoparc de Montcada i Reixac (Ecoparc 2), one of the waste treatment plants owned by the AMB, managed by FCC Medio Ambiente. This facility receives 100,000 tons of organic waste (selectively
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) As Hüseyin Turan Arat of İskenderun Technical University and Meryem Gizem Sürer observed in a recent paper, “With the increasing world population and the energy consumption, the aviation industry has led the technology and researches to alternative and/or renewable energy sources depending on the risk of
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) It’s Black Friday today but do you remember the black diesel of the old days? We’ve come a long way from that and ethanol is great for many vehicles and applications, but how about heavy-duty diesel transportation? What about the 99% of semi-trucks that use
by Troy Carter (TechLink Center) Available to industry via license agreement — A scientist at the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory has discovered that special proteins can keep microbes from colonizing inside fuel tanks and degrading the fuels–especially biodiesel. Dr. Oscar Ruiz, director and lead scientist at the lab’s Fuel
Review of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Particulate Matter on Behalf of the Urban Air Initiative (UAI)
(Urban Air Initiative) On behalf of the Urban Air Initiative (UAI), we appreciate the opportunity to comment on the above Proposed Rulemaking (Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2015-0072). UAI is a not for profit technical organization with a particular focus on automotive emissions and fuel composition. We are disappointed that EPA fails