Enzyme Found in Wood-boring Insects Could Turn Wood into Liquid Biofuel

In the UK, researchers at the University of York, University of Portsmouth and the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory have used advanced biochemical analysis and x-ray imaging to identify a new enzyme to convert woody biomass into liquid biofuel. The enzyme is produced by gribbles, tiny marine wood-borers often responsible for destroying seaside wooden piers. The researchers hope to reproduce the enzymes effects on an industrial scale.

Category: Research