Biotech Updates

Shell and Virent Research Collaboration for "Biogasoline"

April 11, 2008
http://www.biofuels-news.com/news/shell_virent.html
http://www.virent.com/News/press/03-26-08_Shell_Virent_Biogasoline_Collaboration.pdf

A leading energy company (Shell) and a pioneering company on Aqueous Phase Reforming (APR) technology (Virent), have agreed on a collaborative research and development effort to develop "biopetrol" or "biogasoline" from biomass-derived sugars. According to the joint press release by Shell and Virent, the R and D effort could "herald the availability of new biofuels that can be used at high blend rates in standard gasoline engines". This would obviate the need for special engine modifications or blending equipment, usually required for the case of high-ethanol-blended (greater than 20% or 30% ) fuels. The biofuels international website also reports that biopetrol has a higher energy content and a better fuel efficiency.

Related information on the Aqueous Phase Reforming Process at https://selectra.co.uk/energy/guides/market/energy-center-of-wisconsin