Behind the Cellulosic Scenes

Ethanol Producer Magazine
June 2010
By Anna Austin

Researchers in Wisconsin and the UK are developing new techniques to augment various aspects of cellulosic ethanol production.

Whether evaluating the metamorphosis of the Model-T to a Mustang or a rotary dial landline to a Blackberry Pearl, it’s clear that the evolution of technology is inevitable. While hype surrounds the latest innovation, there is always someone behind the scenes, working quietly to further advance it, even when something more efficient or inventive cannot be imagined. Without fail, what is advanced today will be considered a stepping stone tomorrow.

Many companies that have successfully demonstrated cellulosic ethanol production processes at bench, pilot and semi-commercial scales are now embarked upon commercial-scale operations, some determined to accelerate progress in order to help meet the renewable fuel standard, which has a cellulosic biofuel requirement of 6.5 million gallons in 2010. Meanwhile, researchers behind the scenes continue to tweak, refine and optimize key processes, from sugar extraction to beefing up feedstocks.

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