UPLB continues search for most viable biofuel

Of all locally grown possible sources of biofuel, sugarcane has emerged as the most immediate and readily available bio-ethanol source, a UP Los Baños expert said. UPLB College of Engineering and Agro-industrial Technology -Department of Chemical Engineering Chair and UPLB’s Alternative Energy Research, Development, and Engineering team convenor Rex Demafelis based his assessment on parameters that the team has developed to test the viability of biofuels. The parameters consist of availability of sources, cost-effectiveness of production, optimal use of land, and the impact on communities near the alternative fuel source. Demafelis said the viability studies looked into the manufacture of other value-added products made from biofuel, such as processed food, handicraft, clothing material, etc. thereby generating other livelihood opportunities. He said that some agencies have noted the potential of sugarcane and have embarked on a project for the study of sugarcane as a source of bio-ethanol. The plant, known locally as tubang bakod or tuba-tuba, was planted in marginal lands as degraded grasslands, denuded uplands, lahar-affected areas, and even in mine-silted areas or near old mining sites. Jatropha can also be used to produce herbal medicines, insecticides, and organic fertilizer. (July 2, 2009)