Subscribe

Studies to evaluate the potential of biomass are being conducted in several states as people begin to realize its economic benefits. One study takes a unique approach by going straight to businesses, organizations and farmers to create a supply chain and industry infrastructure before engaging state government.

Research and development companies in the biofuels industry are striving to acquire capital and interest from experienced industry giants to put their technologies on the fast track to commercialization. Terrabon was able to attract strategic investors—Waste Management and Valero—and is ready to start scaling up its waste to biofuel technology.

Biomass-based absorbent is tough on oil and paint spills but easy on the environment. Nature’s Broom sweeping compound is made with recycled agricultural and forest materials and it’s a USDA BioPreferred product.

The idea of transforming distressed pulp and paper mills into integrated biorefineries has evolved. Closed mills are now viewed as ready-made sites for biorefineries utilizing alternative feedstocks and producing fuels beyond ethanol.

Most experts agree 30 percent of agricultural residues can be removed without harming the soil. However, the removal of biomass such as corn stover or wheat straw from farm fields should be based on soil type, slope and prevailing weather conditions. Farmers can assess this using software tools that factor in these variables, and provide recommendations.

Improvements in the technology and economics of green propylene manufacturing have attracted the attention of chemical companies.