Active processing of cereal crops to produce biofuel has led to food crisis, the analysts say. At this point the studies are aimed at obtaining new raw materials for bioethanol production.
The researchers from the United States have already shown first results.
At the University of Massachusetts the professor along with two assistants conducted an experiment in which by means of catalytic pyrolysis of the cellulose powder they obtained motor fuel. Such substances as aromatic compounds (naphthalene, ethylbenzene and others), carbon dioxide and some water are obtained in the end. The final product appeared after the series of chemical reactions and transformations.
The specialists note that this is only the first step in the issue of new methods of biofuel production, the greatest results are ahead.
The scientists from the University of Texas used the kind of cyanobacteria capable of producing cellulose, as well as glucose and sucrose, while the latter can then be directed to obtain ethanol. The sunlight is the energy source for this bacterium and the process itself is quite safe for the microorganism.
The researchers from the Netherlands discovered a new way to get jet fuel while processing the straw. Straw is heated to the designated temperature, then with adding the ferments sugars are produced. With the help of bacteria sugars are converted into jet fuel. This production is rather cheap and effective.
The developers from other countries suggest their own ideas. For example, in Scotland the ethanol is made from the mash.
