Australian researchers are producing the next generation biofuels for the aviation industry, using feedstocks sourced from processes in the pulp and paper industry, and even grass cuttings.
Prof Brian Haynes (left) and Prof Thomas Maschmeyer holding a bottle of biocrude oil
“We’re making biocrude oil out of lignocellulosic feedstock,” said Prof. Thomas Maschmeyer of the Universit
y of Sydney. He explained the procedure retains four times more energy in biocrude than is retained in bioethanol. Prof. Maschmeyer is optimistic about the technology, but admitted that the need for large quantities of biomass will require some innovative thinking.
“If we were to change all of the aviation fuels into renewable fuels, based on our process, we’d need about 10% of the world’s current agriculture production,” he said. “That’s a lot, but I can imagine that to be possible if we perhaps use macro-algae – going offshore, into salt water, and not competing with current land use, not competing with fresh water.”
Prof Maschmeyer is one of a group of researchers that the Australian government has asked to advise it on the establishment of a A$20-million (R147 million) Australian Biofuels Research Institute. – Alan Harman
Source: Farmer’s Weekly 3 June,2011
If you live in South Africa and need environmentally friendly water conservation and solar energy solutions, contact us for a free quote. Our WWF award winning water systems include, rainwater harvesting systems, grey water irrigation systems, grey water recycling systems, swimming pool backwash recycling systems, toilet flush mechanisms and other water-saving devices (see product demo).
We are also authorized South African JoJo Water Tanks dealers and offer the full range of JoJo water tanks and JoJo tank stands. Yes Solar offers high quality solar water heaters to reduce your electricity bills by up to 40%. Offset your carbon footprint by switching to green insurance cover, now available in South Africa! Build green and use eco-friendly bamboo products.
