The Next Generation of Biofuels

Companies are poised to go commercial with gasoline substitutes made from grass, algae and the ultimate source: engineered microorganisms

Once the next generation of biofuels becomes available, you could swing by the local energy station and fill up on a liquid that is virtually identical to gasoline. It would be made by U.S. companies, not shipped from the Middle East. And even though biofuels release carbon dioxide when they are burned, the organisms they are made from draw an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide from the air—making biofuels essentially carbon-neutral. Full Story »

Posted by Kaizar Campwala
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Posted by: Posted by Kaizar Campwala - Apr 21, 2009 - 8:06 AM PDT
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Edited by: Kaizar Campwala - Apr 21, 2009 - 8:06 AM PDT

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3.6
by Fabrice Florin - Apr. 21, 2009

In-depth report about gasoline substitutes made from grass, algae and engineered microorganisms. This article is factual, well researched, with many credible sources and helpful context about this promising alternative to fossil fuels.

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3.8
by Dwight Rousu - Apr. 21, 2009

Wenner provides an overview that looks more at the promise and glitter of new ideas. Some of the problems are mentioned, but expert review of the science, ecology, and costs is missing.

At least there seems to be a consensus that biodiesel from corn and cane is a bust. Thermal solar seems more ready.

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4.3
by Glenn LaBauve - Apr. 21, 2009
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4.3
by Kaizar Campwala - Apr. 21, 2009
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3.9
by Mindy Phypers - Apr. 24, 2009

I have learned to take glowing reviews of potential breakthroughs with a grain of salt. So many, for one reason or another, never make it to the ... More »

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2.8
by Norman Rogers - Apr. 21, 2009

The Scientific American has a long history of leftist activism. I've read documents from the fuel from algae project that was killed by Clinton. It is interesting. However the gee whiz approach is not justified.

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4.6
by Charli West - Apr. 21, 2009

I think so, my biggest concern is which microbe will make the cut first.

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