Category: Research

Researchers using artificial neural networks to select biodiesel feedstocks that avoid food competition

August 28, 2025 | Meghan Sapp

In China, the journey toward sustainable biodiesel production faces significant hurdles, particularly in selecting the right feedstocks that don’t compete with food supplies. A groundbreaking comprehensive review reveals how artificial neural networks (ANNs) and deep learning technologies are revolutionizing this field, offering unprecedented solutions to longstanding challenges. Traditional biodiesel production relies heavily on edible crops […]

CABBI researcher use robots to accelerate plant engineering in biofoundary

August 27, 2025 | Meghan Sapp

In Illinois, a team of researchers at the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI) have found a way to use robots to accelerate plant engineering. Researchers deployed a biofoundry – a laboratory that integrates robotics, computer-aided design, and information science. With this tool, they made genetically engineered plants that produced more oil in plant […]

NIBIO researchers using biofilm-based processes to produce 96% purity biomethane

August 26, 2025 | Meghan Sapp

In Norway, carbon-based gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) are often associated with pollution and climate change. But what if these gases could be turned into something useful instead – like clean-burning fuel? This is what NIBIO researchers have been working on. The goal of the collaboration has been to develop […]

ORNL researchers analyze compounds released by plant roots that can improve energy crops

August 25, 2025 | Meghan Sapp

In Tennessee, scientists at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory conducted a meticulous analysis of the compounds released by plant roots into their surrounding environment. The analysis yielded an abundance of data that can guide research aiming to improve the way we grow energy and food crops. Researchers have long known that the […]

BioPACIFIC MIP earns renewed NSF support to accelerate AI-driven biobased materials innovation

August 23, 2025 | Juan Pedro Tomas

In California, the UCLA reported that the U.S. National Science Foundation has renewed funding for BioPACIFIC MIP — Biomaterials, Polymers and Advanced Constructs from Integrated Chemistry Materials Innovation Platform — a collaboration between UC Santa Barbara and UCLA that provides a unique scientific ecosystem for the United States. This $19.8 million renewal empowers BioPACIFIC MIP […]

ORNL researchers study rhizodeposition to boost crop resilience

August 21, 2025 | Meghan Sapp

University of Missouri discover how poplar changes its wood chemistry based on climate

August 20, 2025 | Meghan Sapp

In Missouri, a new study led by researchers at the University of Missouri has uncovered how poplar trees can naturally adjust a key part of their wood chemistry based on changes in their environment. This discovery — the result of a collaboration with scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Georgia — […]

PFAS-loaded fire suppression foam can now be made from soybeans

August 19, 2025 | Meghan Sapp

In Georgia, for years, Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) has been the gold standard for suppressing and extinguishing petroleum-based fires. But its effectiveness has come with a cost: the presence of PFAS, so-called “forever chemicals” that don’t break down and are linked to health and environmental risks. One potential contender to replace the PFAS-laden foam comes […]

Chinese researchers show cerium oxide helps solid oxide fuel cells but work still needed

August 18, 2025 | Meghan Sapp

In China, traditional fossil fuels have low combustion efficiency and serious pollution, and the development of new energy conversion technologies such as wind energy and solar energy is limited by environmental conditions. As an efficient energy conversion device that directly converts chemical energy in fuel into electricity, solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) have attracted much […]

NSW government funds hydrogen safety research at University of Wollongong

August 17, 2025 | Juan Pedro Tomas

In Australia, Australia Manufacturing reported that The New South Wales (NSW) Government has announced a $422,000 grant to the University of Wollongong (UOW) to lead a two-year research project aimed at improving hydrogen pipeline safety. Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong, who made the announcement during a visit to the university, said the […]

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