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Enzyme cocktail converts cellulosic materials, water into hydrogen fuel
February 12, 2009Blacksburg, Va. - Tomorrow's fuel-cell vehicles may be powered by enzymes that consume cellulose from woodchips or grass and exhale hydrogen.
Researchers at Virginia Tech, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), and the University of Georgia have produced hydrogen gas pure enough to power a fuel cell by mixing 14 enzymes, one coenzyme, cellulosic materials from nonfood sources, and water heated to about 90 degrees (32 C).
The group announced three advances from their "one pot" process: 1) a novel combination of enzymes, 2) an increased hydrogen generation rate -- to as fast as natural hydrogen fermentation, and 3) a chemical energy output greater than the chemical energy stored in sugars - the highest hydrogen yield reported from cellulosic materials. "In addition to converting the chemical energy from the sugar, the process also converts the low-temperature thermal energy into high-quality hydrogen energy - like Prometheus stealing fire," said Percival Zhang, assistant professor of biological systems engineering in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech.
"It is exciting because using cellulose instead of starch expands the renewable resource for producing hydrogen to include biomass," said Jonathan Mielenz, leader of the Bioconversion Science and Technology Group at ORNL.
The researchers used cellulosic materials isolated from wood chips, but crop waste or switchgrass could also be used. "If a small fraction - 2 or 3 percent - of yearly biomass production were used for sugar-to-hydrogen fuel cells for transportation, we could reach transportation fuel independence," Zhang said. (He added that the 3 percent figure is for global transportation needs. The U.S. would actually need to convert about 10 percent of biomass - which would be 1.3 billion tons of usable biomass).
Virginia Tech
"It is exciting because using cellulose instead of starch expands the renewable resource for producing hydrogen to include biomass," said Jonathan Mielenz, leader of the Bioconversion Science and Technology Group at ORNL.
The researchers used cellulosic materials isolated from wood chips, but crop waste or switchgrass could also be used. "If a small fraction - 2 or 3 percent - of yearly biomass production were used for sugar-to-hydrogen fuel cells for transportation, we could reach transportation fuel independence," Zhang said. (He added that the 3 percent figure is for global transportation needs. The U.S. would actually need to convert about 10 percent of biomass - which would be 1.3 billion tons of usable biomass).
Virginia Tech
Cellulose Current Events and Cellulose News RSSMaize cell wall genes identified, giving boost to biofuel research
Purdue University scientists have helped identify and group the genes thought to be responsible for cell wall development in maize, an effort that expands their ability to discover ways to produce the biomass best suited for biofuels production.
UC Riverside Researchers Create First Synthetic Cellulosome in Yeast
A team of researchers led by University of California, Riverside (UCR) Professor of Chemical Engineering Wilfred Chen has constructed for the first time a synthetic cellulosome in yeast, which is much more ethanol-tolerant than the bacteria in which these structures are normally found.
Tech researchers using nanotechnology in biofuel process to save money, environment
Dr. James Palmer, associate professor of chemical engineering at Louisiana Tech University, is collaborating with fellow professors Dr. Yuri Lvov, Dr. Dale Snow, and Dr. Hisham Hegab to capitalize on the environmental and financial benefits of "biofuels" by using nanotechnology to further improve the cellulosic ethanol processes.
In amoeba world, cheating doesn't pay
Cheaters may prosper in the short term, but over time they seem doomed to fail, at least in the microscopic world of amoebas where natural selection favors the noble.
Paper battery may power electronics in clothing and packaging material
Imagine a gift wrapped in paper you really do treasure and want to carefully fold and save. That's because the wrapping paper lights up with words like "Happy Birthday" or "Happy Holidays," thanks to a built in battery - an amazing battery made out of paper.
National new biology initiative offers potential for 'remarkable and far-reaching benefits'
A report released today by the National Research Council calls on the United States to launch a new multiagency, multiyear, and multidisciplinary initiative to capitalize on the extraordinary advances recently made in biology and to accelerate new breakthroughs that could solve some of society's most pressing problems -- particularly in the areas of food, environment, energy, and health.
Rhododendron expansion may increase the chance of landslides on Southern Appalachian slopes
Research by U.S. Forest Service Southern Research Station (SRS) scientists and partners suggests that the expansion of rosebay rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) in Southern Appalachian mountain hollows may increase the likelihood of landslides during and after intense rain events.
Tires made from trees -- better, cheaper, more fuel efficient
Automobile owners around the world may some day soon be driving on tires that are partly made out of trees - which could cost less, perform better and save on fuel and energy.
Technology is key for biofuel success
To make the conversion of biomass to biofuels more cost-effective, new technologies are essential, according to Dr. Richard Hess from the Idaho National Laboratory in Idaho Falls in the US and his team.
Green industrial lubricant developed
A team of researchers from the University of Huelva has developed an environmentally-friendly lubricating grease based on ricin oil and cellulose derivatives, according to the journal Green Chemistry.
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An Introduction To The Chemistry Of Cellulose by J.T. Marsh (Author) AN INTRODUCTION TO THE CHEMISTRY OF CELLULOSE by J. T. MARSH M. Originally published in 1938. FOREWORD: CELLULOSE chemistry is a subject for the scientific expert, and hence I cannot attempt to add anything to the substance of this book. It has, however, been my experience that the close correlation of science to the textile industry has already had a profound effect on its development, and that a closer bond between the two is the surest way to promote future advances. The more science is applied, the greater the number of scientific workers engaged in probing the secrets of cellulose chemistry, the brighter will be the outlook for our industry. A knowledge of the literature on the subject is of the greatest importance to the research worker the scientific journals cover a wide range of... |
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Methyl Cellulose 1-25 lbs by candlemakers Methyl Cellulose, Water Soluable, priced per pound, 1-25 lbs. Excellent thickener for water based products, all types. |
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NUTRICOLOGY/ALLERGY RESEARCH GROUP Dietary Fiber Cellulose Powder 250 gm by NUTRICOLOGY/ALLERGY RESEARCH GROUP Cellulose is an excellent source of insoluble fiber. Unlike soluble fiber, insoluble fiber does not feed undesirable bacteria well and is not readily fermented into short chain fatty acids. It has no effect on cholesterol levels and inactivates many intestinal toxins. High intake of insoluble fiber is associated with a decreased risk of unfavorable conditions of the colon, potentially supporting balanced intestinal microbiology. |
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Annuaire Du Papier Carton & Cellulose by Elta | |
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Pickboy J-Pick, Black, Cellulose, 1.50mm, 50 picks by Pickboy J-Pick, Black, Cellulose, 1.50mm, 50 picks |
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Cellulose and Cellulose Derivatives (Polymer Science Library) by Kenji Kamide (Author) Many highly acclaimed and authoritative books on polymer science tend to focus on synthetic polymers. Cellulose and Cellulose Derivatives is the first authoritative book on the subject. It examines recent developments, with particular reference to cellulose (in aqueous alkali) and cellulose acetate. Packed with examples, the author takes an in-depth look at the topic, using the most reliable experimental data available. A comprehensive approach to the fundamental principles of cellulose and its derivatives in solution makes Cellulose and Cellulose Derivatives ideal reading for novices as well as experienced cellulose scientists. * Outlines the theoretical fundamentals of cellulose and cellulose derivatives * Presents comprehensive and... |
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Culligan D-10 Drinking Water Replacement Cartridge Carbon-Impregnated Cellulose, 5 Micron, 250 Gallon Capacity by Culligan 2 Pack, Undersink Drinking Water Filter Replacement Cartridge, Filters Sediment, Bad Taste, Odor, & Chlorine, Carbon Impregnated Cellulose, Filter Life 3 Months Or 250 Gallons, For Use With Model #US-550 True Value #529-274, Model #US-600 True Value #563-429 & Model #US-560. |
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Whatman Ashless Cellulose Powder Filter Aid 500 Gm 1703050 by Whatman Polypropylene Buchner funnel body with high density polyethylene pierced plate to support filter paper |
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Permatex 38490 PermaSorb Multi-Purpose Cellulose Absorbent by Permatex Permatex PermaSorb Multi-Purpose Cellulose Absorbent cleans up spills effectively without harming the environment. It is a wood cellulose fiber obtained from the paper making process. This product contains no chemicals hence, all natural unlike other absorbents that contain silica dust, which can be a respiratory hazard for users. PermaSorb absorbent is lightweight which makes it easy to apply. It is several times more absorbent than clay litters typically used to clean up spills, making it comparable on a cost per use basis. Unlike clay, this absorbent begins absorbing on contact promoting faster spill containment and clean up. The greatest advantage of this product is its environmentally friendly properties. Having passed the rigorous standards of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)... |
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Standard Procedure Face Mask, Cellulose, Blue, 50 per Box by MEDLINE INDUSTRIES, INC. Inner and outer cellulose facing for comfortable, cool wear. Full-width covered nosepiece for proper closure. Latex-free ear loops stay in place. Apparel Type: Face Mask; Global Product Type: Apparel-Face Mask; Material(s): Cellulose; Color(s): Blue. |
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