The Benefits of Biomass

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Solid biomass, in the form of plants and trees, can be converted into liquid fuels such as ethanol, methanol, and biodiesel. Selective breeding of crops has enhanced biomass yield over the last 50 years, but the challenge lies in efficient conversion—creating more energy than the input required to produce it.

Plants store solar energy through photosynthesis in cellulose and lignin cells. Lignin is a chemical compound that is an integral part of the cell walls of plants and trees, providing strength to cellulose cells while conferring flexibility to the plant structure. Lignin makes up about 25-30% of the mass of dry wood, and most of the heat value associated with wood burning is derived from the combustion of the lignin, rather than the cellulose. One challenge to more efficient production of ethanol from wooden plant matter is in learning how to break down the recalcitrant lignin barrier.

DNA sequence information will enable the functional analysis of plant genetics and microbes capable of degrading lignin and cellulose for efficient conversion of biomass to fuels. These advancements could reduce U.S. dependency on gasoline produced from imported oil while reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide emissions to counter climate change.

Biofuel Conversion Process

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