General Motors-backed Mascoma Corporation has developed a proprietary enzyme process to convert wood chips into ethanol fuel. The corporation is putting that process to the test. Up to 200,000 gallons per year of the alcohol-based fuel is being produced at a Rome, New York demonstration refinery. General Motors will use the fuel in its test car fleet.
Implications - The proposed plant in Northern Michigan may also be equipped with the same technology because of so many nearby lumber mills. Cost is a big factor though because it would cost an estimated $200 million to build the factory. The featured video provides an overview of cellulosic ethanol production while managing to be entertaining and educational.
Fuel From Wood Chips
Mascoma Corp. Revs Up Woodship Ethanol for Prime-Time (UPDATE)
Trend Themes
1. Wood Chip Ethanol - Using proprietary enzyme process to convert wood chips into ethanol fuel, presenting an opportunity for sustainable and renewable energy sources.
2. Cellulosic Ethanol - Advancing the production of ethanol from cellulosic biomass, offering a potential breakthrough in the biofuel industry.
3. Alternative Fuel Sources - Exploring renewable and eco-friendly fuel options, driving innovation in the transportation sector.
Industry Implications
1. Renewable Energy - Developing sustainable solutions for energy production, specifically in the conversion of wood chips into ethanol fuel.
2. Biofuel - Revolutionizing the biofuel industry with the advancement of cellulosic ethanol made from wood chips.
3. Transportation - Driving innovation in the transportation industry by exploring alternative fuel sources like ethanol made from wood chips.