Researchers at the Department's BioEnergy Science Center who have achieved yet another advance in the drive toward next generation biofuels: using bacteria to convert plant matter directly into isobutanol, which can be burned in regular car engines with a heat value higher than ethanol and similar to gasoline.
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=497
We're not talking corn to ethanol here. The goal is that any type of cellulose (plant) source could be used. Switchgrass, which has little nutritional potential, is a likely candidate although just about any cellulose source could be used (sawdust, waste paper, etc.).
To put things into perspective, almost two thirds (by weight) of what we’re now putting in landfills is cellulose-based material that might be converted to motor fuels:
• 28% paper
• 28% yard and food waste
• 7% wood
If you Combine biofuels with renewable energy from the grid in a hybrid car like the Chevy Volt you’re headed in the right direction, IMHO.
Of course, firewood is fair game for conversion to fuel also.
http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/progress_alerts.cfm/pa_id=497
We're not talking corn to ethanol here. The goal is that any type of cellulose (plant) source could be used. Switchgrass, which has little nutritional potential, is a likely candidate although just about any cellulose source could be used (sawdust, waste paper, etc.).
To put things into perspective, almost two thirds (by weight) of what we’re now putting in landfills is cellulose-based material that might be converted to motor fuels:
• 28% paper
• 28% yard and food waste
• 7% wood
If you Combine biofuels with renewable energy from the grid in a hybrid car like the Chevy Volt you’re headed in the right direction, IMHO.
Of course, firewood is fair game for conversion to fuel also.