| Dr. Elizabeth Hood, Plant Biology, and director of ASU's Biofuels Research Program, anticipates increased momentum for the program. With the recent passage of the House Energy and Water Appropriations Bill, Congressman Marion Berry secured $1.5 million in funding for Hood's six-person research team. The ASU team creates technologies that make the production of cellulosic ethanol possible and affordable, including the creation of inexpensive enzymes. Plants serve as biofactories, and enzyme technology breaks down plants into sugars, which are then used in ethanol production. The ASU team's creation of more enzyme types and volumes will significantly reduce the cost of cellulosic ethanol production, as well as making ethanol production more environmentally friendly, with reduced energy costs and fewer waste by-products. These new enzyme technologies will also allow farmers to utilize waste materials in the production of ethanol, ultimately lowering the cost of biofuel to consumers. |
