2-Apr-2017: Grassoline - Aviation fuel from grass

Scientists have developed ‘Grassoline’ — a biofuel derived from grass that could one day power aircraft.

Researchers investigated methods that can disintegrate and treat grass until it can be used as a fuel. Right now the amount of biofuel that can be made from grass is still limited to a few drops. The current process is very expensive, and engines should be adapted to this new kind of fuel.

To improve biodegradability, the grass is pre-treated at first. Then bacteria are added which convert the sugars in the grass into lactic acid and its derivatives. This lactic acid can serve as an intermediate chemical to produce other compounds such as biodegradable plastics (PLA) or fuels. The lactic acid was then converted into caproic acid, which was further converted into decane. Decane can be used in aviation fuel.

If we can keep working on optimising this process in cooperation with the business world, we can come down on the price. And maybe in a few years we can all fly on grass!.