Researchers working on new aviation biofuels
July 13, 2010, 11:37 pm
Airlines have been undertaking various efforts in recent years to develop new biofuels that can help them save money while also reducing emissions across the industry.
One step toward this goal was recently announced by Washington State University and a variety of partners, including Boeing, Alaska Airlines, Spokane International Airport and the Ports of Seattle and Portland.
According to the announcement, the entities are working together on a regional initiative called Sustainable Aviation Fuels Northwest, which is said to be the first of its kind in the country. The project calls for various biomass options in the four-state Northwest region to be examined as possible new source for jet fuel.
"This really is an exciting development from both the economic impact to the Northwest, but also to the advancement of clean fuel technologies world-wide," said John Gardner, vice president of Economic Development and Global Engagement at WSU.
Washington State noted that its researchers are currently examining methods of breaking down the lignin in forest by-products and other woody biomass, as well as working on energy-rich algae. Other prospective biofuel sources include seeds such as camelina.
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