by Chia-wen Carmen Hsieh and Claus Felby (University of Copenhagen/IEA Bioenergy) The merchant shipping sector is one of the mayor players in world trade. More than 80% of all goods are transported via international shipping routes. The sector consumes more
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The US Department of Energy has a goal of developing industrially-relevant strains to meet titer, rate, and yield targets for fuel precursors for the 2022 BC Platform cost target goals of $3/GGE. A project led by
(U.S. Department of Energy) Responses to Request for Information DE-FOA-0001526: Biofuels and Bioproducts Process Pilot Verification Capabilities ... In February 2016, the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) reached out to industry, academia, national laboratories, and other biofuels and
by Ron Cascone (Nexant) Reuters reported on November 16, 2017 an International Maritime Organization (IMO) declaration that ships not meeting stack sulfur emission limits through reductions in the sulfur content of their fuel or by installing scrubbers risk being declared “unseaworthy”. Ship
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... The problem of Investor risk is ridiculously easy to understand and ridiculously hard to solve. ... Financial investors will tolerate very short-term cases of marginally sub-par returns and they have no tolerance at all of losses. ... And risk induces panic and suffocation long
(CGIAR) Evidence-based science on the mitigation and socio-economic impacts of soil carbon sequestration is needed to support commitments to sustainable development goals and the Paris Agreement target. ... Soil carbon sequestration, they say, “can have equal or larger impacts on mitigation.” COP23 agriculture decision
by Lisa Gibson (Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... Pacific Ethanol in Stockton, California, will be the first ethanol plant to use Ener-Core’s Power Oxidizer, a combined-heat-and-power plant fueled by waste gas, using volatile organic compounds as fuel. The unique technology allows
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) DMC’s technology enables reproducibility and robustness to scale; Production of a diversity of targets using a single bioprocess; HTS approaches that translate to full scale performance — and the company says, “50X improvement in speed and cost of product
by Natasha Kassulke (University of Wisconsin-Madison) When Jim Steele thinks back over the last seven years, from the early research on biofuels, followed by a dream of moving Lactic Solutions LLC technology to the marketplace, and now the acquisition of the
by Mark R. Edwards (Algae Industry Magazine) he new report, Industrial Algae Measurements 8.0, was released by the ABO Technical Standards Committee at the 11th Algae Biomass Summit (ABS) in Salt Lake City this month. The IAM 8.0collaboration represents contributions of over 30
by Nikhil Chaudhary, Ankit Gupta, Sudheer Gupta, Vineet K. Sharma (Peer J) In light of the rapid decrease in fossils fuel reserves and an increasing demand for energy, novel methods are required to explore alternative biofuel production processes to alleviate these
(Bioenergy Insight) A collaborative project to map open access pilot and demonstration infrastructure for bio-based industries across Europe has been launched. The Pilots4U project is funded by the Bio Based Industries Joint Undertaking under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The Agile BioFoundry, designed to productionize synthetic biology, is a public infrastructure investment aimed at increasing U.S. industrial competitiveness and enables new opportunities for private sector growth and jobs. Specifically, the foundry aims to enable a biorefinery
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant is an independent, state-of-the-art facility that operates from a laboratory level to a multi-ton scale. Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant is a service provider for process development, scale-up and custom manufacturing of biobased products and processes. A wide
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Is everyone’s organism for making fuels, chemicals, materials, foods, flavors, fragrances and therapeutics — beautifully and slowly — heading for rapid obsolescence? “Everyone wants to make it faster,” notes Kytopen co-founder Cullen Buie. “Over the past
(ASTM) A proposed ASTM International standard will help characterize the quality of diesel fuels and biodiesel blends. The proposed standard (WK51775) is being developed by the committee on petroleum products, liquid fuels, and lubricants (D02). The proposed standard will be used to
by Charles Loos, Bernard Cooker and Mindy Collier (Lee Enterprises Consulting/Biofuels Digest) To get a new plant started, management must provide the operating staff with training and a full complement of written procedures covering safety, operations, emergencies and environmental compliance. Though the
(Bioenergy Insight) A number of research projects focused on bioenergy and biofuels have been selected for the US Community Science Programme (CSP) of the US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute. ... Boulos Chalhoub of the French National Institute for Agricultural Research is
by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Ethanol laboratories use HPLCs to find issues early in fermentation, but increasingly have been using the data for process optimization. -- High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is the workhorse of the lab, each day analyzing
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) Magellan Midstream Partners fuel pipeline and storage company is now offering pre-blended E15 at many terminals across the U.S., including all Magellan terminals that service Iowa. “This announcement from Magellan is game-changing,” said Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA)
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) Germany’s biodiesel quality management association AGQM has opened registration for its latest round of no-harm tests on oxidation stabilizers for biodiesel. The European diesel fuel standard EN 590 allows up to 7 percent biodiesel to
(U.S. Department of Energy/Newswise) Those who are selected for the Chain Reaction Innovations program will gain, among other things, access to Argonne National Laboratory’s world-class R&D infrastructure and technical expertise. The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory announced the
(TVC News) One of the manufacturers in Nigeria who specialised in the use of cassava for the production of Ethanol has said that the country is losing billions of naira due to a shortfall in Cassava supply. He noted that the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) What is the Advanced Biofuels Process Demonstration Unit, where is it, who does it serve and how? Located at Berkeley Lab, the ABPDU aims to “support the commercialization of industry-, academic-and DOE-driven biofuels and bio-products by providing
by Rajkamal Narayanan (DriveSpark) India has received its first R&D facility for high-end BS-VI (BS6) fuels, operated by the Indian Oil Corp (IOC). The facility is located in Delhi and was inaugurated by Dharmendra Pradhan, the Petroleum Minister. The new
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In January 2014, REG acquired LS9 for a purchase price of up to $61.5 million. Most of the old LS9 team, including the entire R&D leadership group, joined the newly named REG Life Sciences, LLC. The
by Joe Heim (The Washington Post) On Maryland’s Eastern Shore, rising seawater levels and chronic flooding threaten to disrupt daily life, damage homes and businesses, and swallow land in the relatively near future, according to a new study. For
by Douglas Root* (Advanced Biofuels USA) From the Welcome Reception on Monday to the last session on Wednesday, there was new information presented and new developments reported. At the opening of the expo, many vendors were not able to participate in
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine/Biomass Magazine) The Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials recently released a report reviewing its 2016 activities and highlighting its increased impact and presence in the global renewable fuels industry. The report shows the organization launched a
(Smart Pilots/Interreg Europe) SmartPilots' objective is to improve regional policies in support of Shared Pilot Facilities (SPF) to increase their impact on the Key Enabling technology (KET) Industrial Biotech and the bio-economy. The bio-economy adresses societal challenges such as climate change, sustainable
(AkzoNobel) A new online tool which can track the use of bio-based raw materials in products has been launched as a pilot by project partners AkzoNobel, Advanced Biochemical (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (ABT) and EY. It will be the first tool
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In California, review of the Low Carbon Fuel Standard is well underway with a public meeting looking scheduled for April 4 looking at lifecycle assessment modeling for fuels and feedstocks including potential updates to CA-GREET
(Growth Energy) Last week, ASTM International published an important new high-octane fuel standard, ASTM D8076 – 17, Standard Specification for 100 Research Octane Number Test Fuel for Automotive Spark-Ignition Engines. A major victory for the ethanol industry, this new specification
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The REG Okeechobee facility is now “open for business” as a contract manufacturing site, and that’s a fascinating development worth exploring, even if you don’t have a microbe you would like to manufacture without the
by Mark Warner (Warner Advisors LLC/Biofuels Digest) As companies consider options to commercialize their advanced biotechnologies, they are faced with the decision to either build their own demonstration scale facility or utilize existing contract manufacturing operations (CMOs). There are benefits and
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Honeywell’s UOP has developed a renewable jet fuel processing technology, a renewable diesel process, as well as a joint venture, Envergent Technologies, that will market technologies and equipment for generating power, transportation fuel and heating
by Robin Booker (The Western Producer) There are many innovative products and services available to Canadian crop producers that could help improve sustainability. However, the global food sector is struggling to find ways to reward growers who adapt sustainable technologies and
(International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)) Sustainable biofuels have an important role to play in Africa’s development. When biofuels such as biodiesel and bioethanol are produced and used in a sustainable way, they provide massive economic and environmental benefits. These include,
(Iowa State University) Iowa State University will bring its expertise in biorenewable technologies and pilot plant operations to the country’s 10th Manufacturing USA Institute. The recently announced advanced manufacturing institute is dedicated to improving the productivity and efficiency of chemical manufacturing.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) It’s known by the ungainly acronym ABPDU, which might as well decode as “All Bioeconomy Processes Developed Upstairs,” but actually stands for the far more modest “Advanced Biofuels Process Demonstration Unit.” It’s run out of the Berkeley
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... “Advanced Biofuels Process Demonstration Unit.” It’s run out of the Berkeley Lab, and is the technology center behind the technology centers, if you will, of companies such as Kiverdi, Sylvatex, Perfect Day, Lygos, Microvi,
by Tegan Annett (Northern Star) What was once a paw paw farm in Yarwun is now a multi-million dollar laboratory that is leading the way for renewable fuel creation. Yesterday Northern Oil's biocrude and biofuel laboratory was officially opened, marking the
(Australian Renewable Energy Agency) Australia’s first advanced green fuels laboratory has opened its doors in regional Queensland, thanks to support from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), allowing researchers to test biocrude on our shores for the first time. ARENA has
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Missouri, Benson Hill Biosystems, an agricultural technology company unlocking the genetic potential of plants, today announced a strategic partnership and grant from the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA). Benson Hill’s CropOS platform empowers organizations of
(Roundtable for Sustainable Biomaterials) The Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) celebrated the announcement at its Annual Assembly of Delegates meeting in Hanoi, Vietnam that its global members have voted to approve and publish revised Principles & Criteria. This independent, multi-stakeholder
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The ASCENT Center of Excellence at Washington State University is focusing on meeting the environmental and energy goals of the Next Generation Air Transportation System, including reducing noise, improving air quality, reducing climate impacts, and energy
(U.S. Department of Energy) The results of the U.S. Department of Energy Bioenergy Technologies Office's (BETO's) Cellulosic Sugar and Lignin Production Capabilities Request for Information (RFI) are now available on the RFI responses web page. This new web page is a
by Barry Cohen (National Algae Association) The National Algae Association, a 501(c)6, is the first non-profit algae production trade association in the world. A collaboration of commercially-minded algae researchers, algae producers and equipment companies. We assist students, algaepreneurs and private
(Iteris) Predictive Agriculture Analytics and APIs from Iteris Now Cover Sorghum and Sunflower Crops -- Iteris, Inc. (NASDAQ: ITI), the global leader in applied informatics for transportation and agriculture, today announced the addition of growth models for sunflower and sorghum
By Angela Fivga and Zsuzsa A. Mayer (Lee Enterprises Consulting, Inc./Biofuels Digest) The analysis and standardization of biofuels are in constant development, therefore in many studies they follow a historic view or borrow unsuitable methods from fossil fuel analysis. An
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) This season, The Digest is hosting the Strategic Intent webinar series, looking at the plans, progress and future milestones of strategic stakeholders in the Advanced Bioeconomy. In this slide deck, we looked at Novozymes and Procter &
(Bio Base Europe/Biomass Magazine) SuperBIO is an innovation project supported through the EU Horizon2020 funding program. The € 3.8 million ($4.24 million) project supports the development of promising industrial value chains in the bioeconomy. It therefore engages with the EU
(Algae Industry Magazine) In New Zealand is an internationally significant collection of microalgae cultures known as the Cawthron Institute Culture Collection of Microalgae (CICCM). The CICCM was recently moved into a new home in Cawthron Institute’s recently built Envirotech building
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) What can you use Aerial Data Analysis for? Says Precision Hawk’s Ally Ferguson, quite a lot. Crop health indices, Plant height, Canopy cover, Weed detection, Season monitoring, Environmental assessment, Land cover mapping, Irrigated land mapping, Impervious surface mapping, Watershed planning, Wildfire/Flooding Damage assessment, Forest Disease detection, Crop claims
(Rayeman Elements Inc./Ethanol Producer Magazine) Rayeman Elements Inc. has developed a patented method to cube distillers dried grains (DDGs). The company has also announced a new grain drying system that aims to reduce the risks and costs associated with operating
by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) As the Tier 3 deadline approaches, it's important to understand the difference between EPA and ASTM treatments of the element. -- The U.S. EPA’s Tier 3 rules are not new—they were finalized two years
(Growth Energy) Recently, the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge, Argonne, and National Renewable Energy Laboratories released their “Summary of High Octane, Mid-Level Ethanol Blends Study.” This scientific analysis showed the numerous benefits of using high octane mid-level ethanol blends in
(U.S. Department of Energy) Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of light-duty vehicles are pursuing a broad portfolio of technologies to reduce CO2 emissions and improve fuel economy. Central to this effort is higher efficiency spark ignition (SI) engines, including technologies reliant
by Joanna Schroeder (Energy.AgWired.com) The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) has announced new certified reference material (CRM) for cold filter plugging (CFPP) and cloud point (CP) temperatures of biodiesel. This material helps laboratories accurately establish the lowest temperature at
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... The nature of collaboration across the advanced bioeconomy is shifting dramatically – and we are seeing the democratization of R&D. ... The CRISPR revolution As Dan Watkins of DFJ’s Mercury Fund put it, “There’s a
(U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities/Biomass Magazine) The U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities recently announced the launch of the revitalized wood bioenergy facility database and mapping tool. The site, www.wood2energy.org, is the most comprehensive database of its kind in
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Genera Energy “leads the nation in the commercialization of integrated biomass supply chain solutions for the biofuels, biopower and biochemicals markets.” Initially formed in 2008, Genera works with leading technology providers and strategic investors to develop
(U.S. Department of Energy) What are the key considerations when installing ethanol equipment at a fueling station? For those new to ethanol fueling, installing the necessary infrastructure may be unchartered territory. From fuel specifications to dispensing regulations, the recently updated Handbook
by Susanne Retka Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) As the Tier 3 deadline approaches, it's important to understand the difference between EPA and ASTM treatments of the element. -- The U.S. EPA’s Tier 3 rules are not new—they were finalized two
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) This week, the US Department of Energy released its 2016 Billion-Ton Report: Advancing Domestic Resources for a Thriving Bioeconomy, and said that 1.2 billion tons of biomass would be available at $40 or less per ton
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Washington, the US Department of Energy released its 2016 Billion-Ton Report: Advancing Domestic Resources for a Thriving Bioeconomy, and said that 1.2 billion tons of biomass would be available at $60 or less per ton by
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) At the heart of the United States focus on bioenergy R&D is the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colorado — supporting feedstock development, bioconversion and understanding markets for new products. NREL’s Justin Sluiter gave this
(Bergeson & Campbell) Bergeson & Campbell, P.C. (B&C®) announced today the launch of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Blog (TSCAblog™) to track and report regulatory, scientific, legal, and policy developments under the "new TSCA." On June 22, 2016, President
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers has completed a standard that establishes a framework for charting progress toward sustainable agriculture production. According to ASABE, the standard is intended for application with all typical farming
(National Oilheat Research Alliance) The National Oilheat Research Alliance and two Oilheating associations recently celebrated the opening of a new research and training facility designed specifically for Oilheating fuels and renewabls, such as and Bioheat® fuel. Located in Plainview, NY, on
(Argonne National Laboratory) Developing transformative energy technologies and cleaner manufacturing processes and new materials requires more than a great idea and some committed people. It takes an innovation ecosystem. To meet this challenge, the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy
(Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative) We are proud to announce the 10th Anniversary of the initiation of the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative (CAAFI) as of May 24, 2016, and more importantly, to reflect on the success we’ve achieved to date,
by Ann Bailey (Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) use in the ethanol industry is taking off. From checking on corn fields, to inspecting ethanol plants, to looking over rail cars before shipment, farmers and ethanol producers increasingly are
by Cory Hatch (Renewable Energy World) The Bioenergy Feedstock Library contains no books. What it does contain is information about biomass — organic material such as corn stover, switchgrass, wood chips and wheat straw. Nearly 50,000 biomass database entries and
by Steve Weiss (Genomatica/Chemical Engineering) Biotechnology is increasingly proving its ability to address chemical industry challenges. An engineering-focused approach — bioengineering — is vital to successful industrial application For those undertaking overall process design and implementation for intermediate and specialty chemicals,
by Lorenz Bauer and William Quapp (Biofuels Digest) ... However, attempts to translate these small scale successes into commercial technologies have been less successful. It is easy to blame lower oil and natural gas prices and opposition from special interest
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) UIC GmbH, a subsidiary of Austrian biodiesel technology provider BDI-BioEnergy International AG, has just reopened its expanded and modernized research center near Frankfurt, Germany, in Alzenau. According to BDI, UIC is a pioneer in fine vacuum
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) An abundance of ASTM and ISO biodiesel activities may make 2016 the busiest year yet at the standards organizations, said National Biodiesel Board senior technical advisor Steve Howell. At the National Biodiesel Conference & Expo
by Holly Jessen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) I really enjoyed learning about research into midlevel ethanol blends from Timothy Theiss and Brian West, researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. "E25, E40 for the masses" went live on our website last week
by Joanne Ivancic (Advanced Biofuels USA) Fourth in an original Advanced Biofuels USA series about retrofitting a 2002 Ford Focus to use E85 --- As excited and optimistic as we were to get this project underway, we didn't want to
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) If your glycerin or free fatty acids may find their way into the food or feed supply, you must comply with the daunting Food Safety Modernization Act -- ... Moreover, if you’re a grease collector and
by Louisa Burwood-Taylor (AgFunderNews) ... “Ecological farming is ‘AgTech’ but of a different kind. It is a return to the original definition of ‘technology’, which comes from two Greek words: technis, which means art, skill, craft or the way something is gained, and logos,
(Extension.org) If you are looking for a comprehensive article on poplar for biofuel production, this is for you. Table of Contents Introduction Current and Potential Use as a Biofuel Biology and Adaptation Production and Agronomic Information Harvest Potential Yields Production Challenges Estimated Production Cost Environmental/Sustainability Issues Feasibility Summary Bibliography For More Information Contributors to This
By John Sens (EcoEngineers/Ethanol Producer Magazine) CARB readopts standards, and sets time lines and treatment for legacy pathways. -- In the first three quarters of 2015, California Low Carbon Fuel Standard credits increased in price by 212 percent. October saw
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Part of the Lawrence Berkeley National Labs, established by the United States Department of Energy, is the Advanced Biofuels Process Demonstration Unit, designed to help ramp up the bioeconomy. ABPDU enables early stage advanced biofuels, biomaterials, and
(U.S. Department of Energy) The Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy use in Transportation (GREET) model allows researchers and analysts to fully evaluate the energy and emission impacts of advanced vehicle technologies and new transportation fuels. Argonne National Laboratory recently
by Mark Warner (Warner Advisors LLC) Two questions have dominated the responses received after my Lessons Learned series on commercializing industrial biotechnology (here) and the deep-dive into the industrial biotechnology commercialization process (here), the questions are what makes scale-up of industrial
(CORDIS/Phys.Org) Completed in September 2015, the four-year BRISK project brought together 26 partners from across Europe – various academic and research institutions – to establish a highly visible network of demonstration rigs. 'Many SMEs and students don't have access to these
The Green Chemistry & Commerce Council and the ACS Green Chemistry Institute®have partnered to create a new online platform for green chemistry professionals to share information and collaborate on research and innovative technologies.The Green Chemistry Innovation Portal is a free
by Alison Goss Eng and Daniel Adams (U.S. Department of Energy) ... Earlier this year, we highlighted five cost-saving harvesting technologies that private companies and universities developed through $21 million in 2009 funding from the Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO). At the
by Kristen Johnson and Alicia Moulton (U.S. Department of Energy) At the Energy Department’s Bioenergy Technologies Office, we’re actively working to develop the advanced biofuels industry in a way that leads to positive impacts and that demonstrates responsible stewardship of
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Praj provides technology and EPC for ethanol plants and has > 600 references across continents. The focus of Praj Matrix is biotechnology. After seven years of development we have LC ethanol technology ready for commercialization.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) For most investors, building a demonstration-scale facility in order to get, and validate, data for the last pre-commercial stages, is a necessary evil somewhere between diaper-changing and a colonoscopy on the “revolting, yet inevitable” meter. Those who
by Jeremy P. Jacobs (E&E/Greenwire) Ask Chicago environmentalists who’s the Windy City’s best lawyer, and they’re likely to name Howard Learner. Learner has built his Environmental Law and Policy Center into a Midwest powerhouse over the last 20 years on transportation
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... The E2 report is something of a hybrid — for one, it includes actual biodiesel production, but in the case of other fuels, it reports production capacity rather than production, and includes projects which are
by Talia Bang (Ag NewsWire) PacificAg, the country’s largest and most experienced biomass harvest company in the country, can help ethanol plants developing or expanding operations into the production of cellulosic ethanol, save time and money on supply chain development.
(Dawnbreaker/PR NewsWire) The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has officially launched its first ever SBIR/STTR Phase 0 Assistance Program, aimed at helping eligible small R&D businesses and individuals successfully apply for SBIR/STTR federal funding from the DOE. Since the program
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) Producers and technology providers, including Pacific Biodiesel, Kelley Green Biofuel, Piedmont Biofuels, WB Services and Crown Iron Works, discuss procedural and design elements to mitigate risk in biodiesel manufacturing. A philosophical problem exists when an industry whose
by Art Krugler (Biodiesel Magazine) Biodiesel production has no more or less fire hazard than an oil refinery. Plant personnel at all levels need to be vigilant and totally informed, realizing that what they do not know can lead to
(Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials) The Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB), a globally recognised sustainability certification standard for biomaterials, and Elements Software Ltd, a leading web based traceability software provider, are working together to help RSB members track their biofuel feedstocks. Biofuel
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... The staff blends field experience, engineering and chemistry expertise with design and fabrication capabilities to offer an interdisciplinary approach to fuel-related services. Our capabilities span the needs of companies at all stages of product development, from initial
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
The California Air Resources Board (ARB) is in the midst of an overhaul of the Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS). Two of the issues most important to the low carbon fuels industry are the carbon intensity curve and cost containment
(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
(National Oilheat Research Alliance) Research conducted by the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) on blending ASTM D6751 biodiesel with both standard and low sulfur heating oil confirms that blends up to 20 percent biodiesel can be used in heating oil
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... In Germany, Vecoplan opened a new 17,000 square-foot Technology Center in Bad Marienberg, Germany. The first-of-its-kind facility is equipped with more than 25 machines representing a comprehensive range of mechanical technologies for the processing, recycling or
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Think affordable, available, sustainable carbon is the biggest barrier to the growth of biofuels? Or, access to market via blender pumps? In the case of drop-in biofuels, the biggest challenge might be finding enough hydrogen.
by Ron Kotrba (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Diversifying ethanol coproduct streams is big business in today’s market as producers seek to add value to their product portfolios, a major focus of discussion at the 2014 International Fuel Ethanol Workshop & Expo
(Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Renewable Fuels Association has unveiled an updated version of “The Training Guide to Ethanol Emergency Response.” This powerful resource was first developed in 2006 to give first responders, hazmat teams, and safety personnel in-depth
(Algae Biomass Organization) The Algae Biomass Organization announced the publication of “Industrial Algae Measurements, Version 6.0” (IAM 6.0), a document that sets standards to measure and compare diverse algae industry operations. IAM 6.0 is a collaboration of more than 30 industry experts
(Wood Education and Resource Center) The Local Impact of Woody Biomass Energy Projects: Quick Assessment Tool for Planners and Community Leaders (the Quick Assessment Tool), developed by the New York Biomass Energy Alliance, and the New York Farm Viability Institute, with funding from the U.S. Forest
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. Energy Information Administration has updated its state energy profiles and added new analytical narratives on the energy sectors of each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia and five U.S. territories. The narratives
(Iowa Biodiesel Board) Program helps ensure long-term integration of biodiesel into American fuel supply Some instructors from throughout the Midwest who will train the diesel mechanics of tomorrow now have a thorough knowledge base on biodiesel. It’s thanks to recent training
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Illinois, the Argonne National Laboratory is highlighting a new GREET fuel cycle model release (GREET1 2013) uploaded to the GREET web site. This release includes the following updates: New marine fuel pathways and commercial vessel
(Ag Professional/USDA Agricultural Research Service) Farmers in the semiarid central Great Plains have traditionally used a two-year, no-till, dryland, winter wheat/fallow cropping system, which stretches scarce soil water supplies and minimizes crop failure from water stress. Now they are interested
(Evonik Industries AG/Biodiesel Magazine) On Oct. 21, Essen, Germany-based Evonik Industries started up a new plant for manufacturing biodiesel production catalysts in Argentina. Patrik Wohlhauser, the member of the Evonik executive board responsible for the South America region, spoke at the
(Biofuels International) The Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB), a voluntary sustainability scheme approved by the European Union, has introduced a new report regarding upstream verification for waste materials. The RBS, which covers all types of feedstock and all biomaterial products, outlines
(Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI)) (from a letter to US Department of Agriculture) ... "You asked on August 13 if the Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI) had any information regarding the average price for installing E15 storage equipment and blender pumps at retail
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) ...Biodiesel emerged on the U.S. alternative fuels radar in the early 1990s, and for the next decade it slowly gained recognition as a real-world, here-and-now replacement for diesel fuel before its first ASTM specification, D6751,
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Ontario Federation of Agriculture recently announced that a value chain consortium has presented a final report to local corn producers, showing that it is commercially viable to establish a cellulosic sugar plant in
by Dr. Bruno Miller and John Heimlich (CAAFI/Biofuels Digest) ... CAAFI has unveiled its Guidance for Selling Alternative Fuels to Airlines to serve as a roadmap for potential producers and other supply-chain participants contemplating purchase agreements with airlines for non-petroleum-derived jet fuels. The report
by Matt Groves (WREX) ... Fire departments from across the region trained in Kirkland Saturday afternoon for ethanol fires. Cars doused in ethanol were set fire to, then firefighters worked to put them out. ... "Utilizing the correct type of foam and a
by Tom Portz (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Eric Sumner’s lifelong fascination with science spans from his youth to the cutting edge of ethanol plant bacterial control and the growing importance of coproducts for long-term industry viability. Helping ethanol producers control bacteria without
(PR Web) RSB now recognizes FSC which certifies responsibly managed forests. The Roundtable on Sustainable Biofuels (RSB) is pleased to announce its decision to recognize the standard of the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) which certifies responsibly managed forests. As RSB and FSC
by Jim Lane (Biobased DIgest) Bringing your biobased technology forward through the Valley of Death may require a bridge over troubled waters. Here are partners worth knowing. ... Bioenergy commercialization is long, expensive and risky. Derisking the enterprise by making the
The National Institute of Standards and Technology announced that it has posted presentations from the 4th International Conference on Biofuels Standards: Current Issues, Future Trends on its web site. The purpose of the meeting was to provide a forum for
by Nathan Vander Griend (Biodiesel Magazine/ERI Solutions Inc.) Safety training, work permits, standard operating procedures and what seems to be an almost endless amount of documentation can be a burden to an operating facility. It hasn’t always been that way,
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) For B100 and biodiesel blends, two main fuel additive categories dominate the sector: stabilizers and cold flow improvers. Biodiesel can be produced from many fats, oils and greases, each possessing unique chemical make-ups that affect
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) For biodiesel refineries, a good maintenance plan starts with good training. Austria-based BDI-BioEnergy International AG, which has built more than 30 plants worldwide, starts its plant personnel training routine during construction of the facility. ...“Prevention is
by Gary Truitt (Hoosier Ag Today) Agricultural economists at the University of Illinois have been calculating the costs for farmers to produce biomass energy crops as renewable alternatives to fossil fuels. In fact – they have created a feedstock cost
by Tim Leeds (Havre Daily News) A standing-room-only crowd filled a newly re-opened building at Montana State University-Northern to hear dignitaries and university representatives talk about the latest addition to its cutting-edge alternative fuels laboratory. ...The center houses the oil presses
(ASTM International) This Ethanol Fuel Blends specification covers the requirements for automotive fuel blends of ethanol and gasoline for use in ground vehicles equipped with flexible-fuel spark-ignition engines. Fuel produced to this specification contains 51 to 83 volume % ethanol.
by Brian Winter (Reuters/Chicago Tribune) After years at each other's throats, Brazil and the United States are working together to promote the use of ethanol in a collaboration that could revolutionize global markets and the makeup of the biofuel itself. The breakthrough came
(Bioenergy Science Institute) The Feedstock Cost and Profitability (FCAP) Calculator provides an estimate of the breakeven price needed to cover the costs of producing biomass from alternative feedstocks. These include crop residues from corn and energy crops like miscanthus, switchgrass,
(Biodiesel Magazine/National Biodiesel Board) ...This week, the National Automotive Technician Education Foundation officially awarded the Automotive Service Excellence accreditation to the NBB Biodiesel for Diesel Technicians curriculum. NATEF is the body responsible for accrediting schools and curriculum nationwide. Dave Milne, president of the
by Mary Rosenfeld (Algal Biomass Organization) ... (T)the Algal Biomass Organization is launching the ABO Blog to meet a growing need for timely information about the algae industry. The ABO Blog will be offering perspectives and updates on algae industry news in all of the
(National Algae Association) Due to the lack of sufficient data on the performance of industrial-scale photobioreactors, fermentation, dewatering/harvesting and extraction equipment, the NAA is announcing a new collaborative testing center starting in The Woodlands, Texas beginning in January, 2012. "If we
(Renewable Fuels Association) The ongoing effort to alter gasoline to minimize its impact on the environment and reduce U.S. dependence on foreign crude oil has refocused attention on fuel quality issues. The increased use of ethanol, now in well over 90
(PR NewsWire/Elesvier) New Tool Enables the Successful Commercialisation of Alternative Energy Technologies Elsevier, the world-leading provider of scientific, technical and medical information products and services, today announced the launch of Elsevier Biofuel, an online search and discovery tool that provides biofuel managers
(Biofuels Center of North Carolina) The Biofuels Wiki provides a virtual online encyclopedia about renewable transportation fuels, the feedstocks making up those fuels, and the issues implicit in producing biofuels and other industrial bioproducts at large scale from biomass. Thanks to
(US Department of Energy) The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced today the launch of the Technology Commercialization Portal—an online resource that will serve as a tool for potential investors to identify opportunities to invest in work being conducted by DOE
(American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers) The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) has initiated a project to revise its standard on biomass terminology and definitions to include additional terms and definitions. ANSI/ASABE S593, Terminology and Definitions for Biomass
Budhedra Bhaduri (Oak Ridge National Laboratory) This session started with a talk given by moderator Budhedra Bhaduri who emphasized the role of geospatial science and technology in sustainable bioenergy. She presented the Geographic Information System (GIS) that includes computer software and
The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) has revised its standard for testing biodiesel fuel. ASAE EP552.1, Reporting of Fuel Properties when Testing Diesel Engines with Alternative Fuels Derived from Plant Oils and Animal Fats, covers the reporting
"Changes in Gasoline IV” is the 2009 edition of the ongoing series of “Changes in Gasoline” manuals. The first manual, “Changes in Gasoline & the Automobile Service Technician,” was originally published in 1987. Numerous editions of the manual have been
ISO will develop an International Standard to address sustainability issues linked to bioenergy. The standard will be produced by a new ISO project committee, ISO/PC 248, Sustainability criteria for bioenergy. ISO/PC 248 will bring together international expertise and state-of-the-art best practice
Biofuels Digest released a downloadable, consolidated table of cellulosic ethanol and advanced biofuels production, including current production as of December 2009, and planned introductions of new capacity through 2012. The Digest found in its review of operating pilot and demonstration
On November 12, 2009, some three years after a first exploratory multi-stakeholder meeting was held at the EPFL in Lausanne, Switzerland, the Roundtable on Sustainable Biofuels has released Version One of its international standard for better biofuel production and processing.
The Inter-American Development Bank has released a new version of its Biofuels Sustainability Scorecard, which will enable users to better anticipate the impacts of potential biofuel projects on sensitive issues such as indigenous rights, carbon emissions from land use change,
The Scripps Photobiology Group has been hosting a series on the commercialization of algae, with a focus on the possible production of biofuels from algae. The purpose of this forum is to exchange information and spur collaborative conversation about the
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