"Clean Tech: What technology are you, your lab or your workplace developing that will improve how we generate or use energy?"

see more ideas like this.

Biofuels have been considered as one of the great alternatives to solving the energy problem for transportation fuels. Corn used for ethanol unfortunately competes with a staple foodstuff, and requires significant amounts of land area. Ethanol must also be blended with gasoline before it can be used for a transportation fuel.

Our idea seeks to change this by using algae, which grow at a very high rate and can be beneficial removing carbon dioxide from the air and unwanted nutrients from polluted waters, and converting it into butanol. Butanol has a higher energy content per gallon than ethanol, and can be used directly in gasoline engines, making it a better choice.

Through the process we are designing we hope to create a more sensible path toward green transportation fuels in the future.

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277 Responses to “Invest in Algae and Butanol Energy Research”


  1. On February 3rd, 2011 at 3:11 pm Karthic Said:

    Butanol from microalgae is an idea that has very good potential. Butanol is definitely better than ethanol. But, it’s toxicity to the microbial systems is a main challenge that needs to be tackled.


  2. On February 4th, 2011 at 1:57 pm R. E. Babcock Said:

    cool students – cool project


  3. On February 4th, 2011 at 2:20 pm tylinda milstead Said:

    Impressive. Thank you for your research!


  4. On February 4th, 2011 at 2:40 pm William Munson Said:

    I love this project!


  5. On February 4th, 2011 at 2:41 pm Rolin Said:

    Keep up the great work!


  6. On February 4th, 2011 at 3:18 pm Betty Said:

    Great Job! Keep up the awesome work!


  7. On February 4th, 2011 at 4:28 pm Philip Said:

    Wonderful research! I think this will be vital in the future


  8. On February 4th, 2011 at 6:04 pm Debby Said:

    What a wonderful idea to change the future!


  9. On February 4th, 2011 at 6:22 pm Jianjun Du Said:

    This is very exciting. Butanol definitely is one player in the future.


  10. On February 4th, 2011 at 6:56 pm Shane Said:

    Excellent idea! Really hope this project takes off. Algae is a great source.


  11. On February 4th, 2011 at 7:25 pm Skyler C Said:

    I have done research with one of my professors in this field and I think there is definitely a market for it.


  12. On February 4th, 2011 at 8:35 pm Rick Ulrich Said:

    Great approach. It’s time to transfer the excitement from ethanol to butanol.


  13. On February 4th, 2011 at 8:58 pm Nancy Said:

    Intriguing idea! I look forward to seeing more research on this.


  14. On February 4th, 2011 at 9:58 pm Dario Ocampo Said:

    Great project! Go Hogs!!


  15. On February 4th, 2011 at 10:29 pm ken rakestraw Said:

    Excellent ! We definitely need to be working towards ending our dependency on foreign oil. And this seems to be a very viable option.
    Keep up the good work!


  16. On February 5th, 2011 at 10:38 am mimikim Said:

    Keep up the good work, I wish you much success in this!


  17. On February 5th, 2011 at 10:40 am Ann Wachholz Said:

    This is exciting research…I look forward to seeing innovative ideas like this implemented!


  18. On February 5th, 2011 at 10:40 am Annie Kim Lau Said:

    Very excited for this research! You got my vote!


  19. On February 5th, 2011 at 10:42 am Yeh Eun Said:

    please put this on PBS!!!


  20. On February 5th, 2011 at 10:45 am Peter Lee Said:

    YES.


  21. On February 5th, 2011 at 10:51 am Junichi Hitachi Said:

    We need to help this kind of research for our environment. Good luck.


  22. On February 5th, 2011 at 10:55 am James Gonzalez Said:

    Best of luck, this looks like a great research.


  23. On February 5th, 2011 at 11:00 am Paul Reiner Said:

    @nie_nie sent me here and I support this cause. Good luck!


  24. On February 5th, 2011 at 11:05 am Kellie Schneider Said:

    Great idea!!! I look forward to seeing it on PBS.


  25. On February 5th, 2011 at 11:08 am Chris Lee Said:

    Impressed. Good luck!


  26. On February 5th, 2011 at 11:12 am Michael Park Said:

    Let’s get this on PBS, we could use this kind of innovation.


  27. On February 5th, 2011 at 3:42 pm April RIetze Said:

    I think this is a fabulous idea and I would love to see this on PBS! You have my vote for this one!


  28. On February 5th, 2011 at 3:45 pm Rhett Heeb Said:

    Great work guys! Woo Pig!


  29. On February 5th, 2011 at 4:04 pm Russ C Said:

    Butanol is real Green energy, made from green algae! Ethanol is made from yellow corn. Go Real Green, use Butanol for fuel.


  30. On February 5th, 2011 at 4:13 pm Richard Marti Said:

    Very interesting! Hope to see this on PBS!


  31. On February 5th, 2011 at 5:36 pm Kendall Curlee Said:

    Nice video + great idea. Would love to see this on PBS!


  32. On February 5th, 2011 at 5:45 pm patricia hestekin Said:

    Very Interesting, hope to see this on PBS. Good Luck!!


  33. On February 5th, 2011 at 5:59 pm Meagan Magie Said:

    Awesome work!! Woo Pig Sooie!!!


  34. On February 5th, 2011 at 6:08 pm sam hamilton Said:

    Algae is almost everywhere were there is water… takes less energy to convert to fuel than ethanol ….great idea!!!!


  35. On February 5th, 2011 at 6:22 pm Ellen Brune Said:

    Good Luck Team! The video is great and I can’t wait to see it on PBS!


  36. On February 5th, 2011 at 7:53 pm Cindy Baren Said:

    Awesome work & idea!! Best of luck to the team


  37. On February 5th, 2011 at 8:01 pm Ryan Boncheff Said:

    I was able to witness some of this research while I was in the U of A Chemical Engineering Department. This is a great idea and has a great group of professors supporting the students’ efforts.


  38. On February 5th, 2011 at 8:31 pm Jody R. Said:

    Great idea! Hope to see this on PBS!!


  39. On February 5th, 2011 at 8:42 pm Laura B Said:

    Nice job and great idea. Best wishes to the team!


  40. On February 5th, 2011 at 9:00 pm Mark Harmon Said:

    Nicely done! Go Hogs!


  41. On February 5th, 2011 at 10:14 pm Andrew Barnett Said:

    Go Kylan! If you win it’s because of my vote


  42. On February 5th, 2011 at 10:42 pm Roberto Arraya Said:

    Nicely done!


  43. On February 5th, 2011 at 11:24 pm yamama Said:

    NIce work!!!


  44. On February 5th, 2011 at 11:27 pm Kris White Said:

    Great job guys! I had a blast working on this, and I’m so glad that you are continuing this!! WOO PIG!!!


  45. On February 6th, 2011 at 1:06 am D. Moses Said:

    Great Job!!! Go Hogs Go!!!


  46. On February 6th, 2011 at 1:07 am D. Moses Said:

    Love the engineering dept @ the U of A. Our son is in that group of great students.


  47. On February 6th, 2011 at 1:29 am Kendal Said:

    Great work guys! Go Hogs!


  48. On February 6th, 2011 at 2:58 am Ed Tighe Said:

    Excellent, bio fuels could hold great promise.


  49. On February 6th, 2011 at 7:34 am Siavash Darvishmanesh Said:

    That is great, hope you success!


  50. On February 6th, 2011 at 8:31 am mfilla Said:

    Amazing idea and great work!


  51. On February 6th, 2011 at 9:48 am MELISSSA WHITE Said:

    I FIRST GOT EXCITED ABOUT THIS PROJECT WHEN A FAMILY MEMBER SPENT A FEW YEARS WORKING ON IT. HE HAS NOW MOVED TO ANOTHER UNIVERSITY TO COMPLETE HIS DOCTORATE, BUT IT IS STILL CLOSE TO HIS HEART. I WISH EVERYONE ALL THE LUCK ON THIS WORTH WILD PROJECT.


  52. On February 6th, 2011 at 10:37 am Michelle January Said:

    I hope we can help you to clean our environment and dependency on fuel! Best of luck.


  53. On February 6th, 2011 at 10:42 am Goman Lee Said:

    Got my vote.


  54. On February 6th, 2011 at 11:02 am Davey Michaels Said:

    Nice. Good luck.


  55. On February 6th, 2011 at 11:21 am Abraha Said:

    Innovative, scale it up.


  56. On February 6th, 2011 at 1:53 pm Vash2382 Said:

    This is big, huge even.


  57. On February 6th, 2011 at 2:21 pm kritter Said:

    i ran across info on the algae as fuel a few years ago, i think it and the methane idea a very viable alternative to fossil fuel. the more interested folks get in this the better off we will be. though we may all have to have our own little electric and fuel company in the backyard. ive seen people already doing some of this in their backyards so know it is doable. atleast with the algae the cost of our food and other corn products wouldnt go so high we couldnt afford it. besides the ethanol in our fuel ends up damageing our engines and also causes us to get less mpg.


  58. On February 6th, 2011 at 2:23 pm kritter Said:

    oh sorry, well done kris! i had no idea you were doing this project in college. we gotta talk more.


  59. On February 6th, 2011 at 3:08 pm Ashley Bloch Said:

    What a wonderful idea! I can’t wait to hear/read more about it!


  60. On February 6th, 2011 at 4:01 pm Catherine Craig Said:

    go ethan!!! can’t wait to see you guys on pbs!!


  61. On February 6th, 2011 at 4:31 pm Calvin Tichy Said:

    Great Idea…Keep up the research


  62. On February 6th, 2011 at 5:38 pm Dan & Deb Flohr Said:

    Hopefully it will be a viable solution sooner then later!!


  63. On February 6th, 2011 at 5:56 pm Samantha Ostia Said:

    Great job guys! Keep it up!


  64. On February 6th, 2011 at 6:04 pm Ethel C. Simpson Said:

    Very nice presentation. It is heartening to realize that our local people are working on this important issue.


  65. On February 6th, 2011 at 7:16 pm Jessica Said:

    Nice video! As an engineering graduate, it’s exciting to see Arkansas and UofA recognized for scientific advancement.


  66. On February 6th, 2011 at 9:40 pm Jay Diedzic Said:

    Well done! Great content and video. Best of luck!!


  67. On February 6th, 2011 at 9:52 pm N Mizumoto Said:

    best of luck UofArkansas! would be great to see this featured on the show!


  68. On February 6th, 2011 at 10:25 pm Emily strickland Said:

    Well done


  69. On February 6th, 2011 at 10:41 pm Jennifer Said:

    Good luck with your research and work! This is exciting!


  70. On February 7th, 2011 at 12:55 am Tom Potts Said:

    With a major oil shortage looming, we need to develop new sources of mobile (liquid) fuel, which neither solar nor wind will do. Our choices seem to be limited to LNG or biofuels. Biofuels are safer and cleaner. We need this research!


  71. On February 7th, 2011 at 1:32 am Luis Jimenez Said:

    Great project with very promising future!


  72. On February 7th, 2011 at 1:36 am Jessica Stone Said:

    awesome work!


  73. On February 7th, 2011 at 6:12 am Natalia Said:

    Promising research!The next generation fuels!


  74. On February 7th, 2011 at 10:09 am Leonda Holthoff Said:

    How awesome and inovative! The U of A has always been on the cutting edge in its research. The university system in Arkansas never disappoints! Good job!


  75. On February 7th, 2011 at 11:38 am Janet Said:

    Great project!


  76. On February 7th, 2011 at 11:59 am Elizabeth Pryor Said:

    This is very impressive. Good job U of A!


  77. On February 7th, 2011 at 12:14 pm Rachael Dockery Said:

    Very impressive and innovative. Makes me proud to be a U of A alum.


  78. On February 7th, 2011 at 12:37 pm Ashlynn Newberry Said:

    This is a really good idea and seems like it will work and really help the world to become green like it should be!


  79. On February 7th, 2011 at 1:14 pm Darin Nutter Said:

    Being a fuel sources and a carbon sink is a win-win.


  80. On February 7th, 2011 at 1:54 pm Scottological Said:

    Splendid


  81. On February 7th, 2011 at 3:01 pm Jeongho Sohn Said:

    awesome


  82. On February 7th, 2011 at 3:01 pm Tom Yeakley Said:

    Well done Arkansas. Whatever we can do to reduce our dependency on foreign oil, I am in favor of.


  83. On February 7th, 2011 at 3:13 pm Janet Descourouez Said:

    It’s a viable sulotion for water purification this is just another step in the process. Wonderful idea. Good luck


  84. On February 7th, 2011 at 4:02 pm Justin Roberts Said:

    Go Hawgs!


  85. On February 7th, 2011 at 4:47 pm Taylor Hudson Said:

    Congratulations for the unoriginal and elementary idea of using algae as an alternative fuel…


  86. On February 7th, 2011 at 8:07 pm Elizabeth Crowder Said:

    Hoping to see fellow Chem E’s from the U of A on PBS with their great research!!!


  87. On February 7th, 2011 at 8:24 pm yadna chanthaseny Said:

    Sounds like a wonderful project. Good Luck!


  88. On February 7th, 2011 at 8:59 pm Katie H. Said:

    great video and the project is just awesome! this is the future, go america!!:-)


  89. On February 7th, 2011 at 9:37 pm Jean-Claude Rodriguez Said:

    Great idea and research. Hopefully with ideas like this we can help eliminate having to always revert to fossil fuels.


  90. On February 7th, 2011 at 9:55 pm David W Mehnert Said:

    Great idea! Hope all goes well.


  91. On February 7th, 2011 at 9:59 pm Jackie Neely Said:

    Great team work and research!


  92. On February 7th, 2011 at 10:18 pm Karen Rakestraw Said:

    This is awesome! Thanks to Kylan and his group for using their intellectual gifts for the good of us all!


  93. On February 8th, 2011 at 1:14 am Brandon Said:

    Cutting edge stuff. Very interested to see where this research goes and how much attention is able to garner.


  94. On February 8th, 2011 at 1:17 am Jenn Said:

    Great Idea! I hope butanol will be put to use in the near future. Groundbreaking.


  95. On February 8th, 2011 at 1:07 pm David Servies Said:

    Higher carbon content, greater energy potential and less reliance on corn. Way to go!


  96. On February 8th, 2011 at 1:14 pm Lynn Garthwaite Said:

    I’m excited for the future of our country when I see young people working on innovations like this. Thank you!


  97. On February 8th, 2011 at 1:35 pm Pam Lautzenheiser Said:

    Wow! Great idea and great research – this could literally change the world! I hope we see this on PBS to get even more of the story and the attention of decision makers to fast track the research and implementation.


  98. On February 8th, 2011 at 2:27 pm Sandie Lubin Said:

    interesting work and great video! Yeah Ali.


  99. On February 8th, 2011 at 3:54 pm Ralph de Juliis Said:

    Really nice, thoughtful and provocative! GOOD JOB!!


  100. On February 8th, 2011 at 5:12 pm Sarah Said:

    Sounds great. I think people will want to know more about the benefits of butanol, but also hear that the potential drawbacks have been thoroughly considered as well. Tell us how this is not part of a quick fix solution to sustain our habits, but a long term solution to sustain life itself. Great work. Thankyou for the effort!


  101. On February 8th, 2011 at 5:29 pm George D. Combs Said:

    A great idea and a nice video. The arguments for this route to biofuels are compelling. I look forward to seeing it on TV.


  102. On February 8th, 2011 at 5:57 pm Larry Black Said:

    Another great job from the Chemical Engineering department at the University of Arkansas. This approach has so many pluses, it must be in the mix for the future. Will be looking for this program on PBS.


  103. On February 8th, 2011 at 7:05 pm jwehmer Said:

    PBS! PBS! PBS!


  104. On February 8th, 2011 at 8:36 pm smjuarez Said:

    This sounds like a very intriguing project! Look forward to it!


  105. On February 8th, 2011 at 8:38 pm Kaitlyn Smith Said:

    Very Interesting research! I will definitely watch the special on PBS!!


  106. On February 8th, 2011 at 10:24 pm Tim Stubbs Said:

    Great, renewable technology with a lot of potential to fix long term energy issues. What could be better than growing fuel using an organism and feed sources without other competing commercial uses. Technologies like this need more exposure to get others investigating commercialization.


  107. On February 8th, 2011 at 11:05 pm Jc McCall Said:

    I sure hope the University of Arkansas wins. This idea sounds very promising. Please, hurry up and get it done. I do not want any oil… Unless it’s on some fried chicken and okra.


  108. On February 9th, 2011 at 1:41 am Jeffrey Said:

    Great idea.


  109. On February 9th, 2011 at 5:38 am Mircalla Said:

    Cute girls! Makes the research more interesting too. good luck, hope you win.


  110. On February 9th, 2011 at 10:39 am William Munson Said:

    This project should definitely be chosen by PBS. You guys should go to Washington and present this research to President Obama!


  111. On February 9th, 2011 at 11:33 am Jennifer Barker Said:

    An excellent endeavor worth being chosen by PBS, and should also be tied to Earth Day’s 2011 campaign of: A Billion Acts of Green —

    A Billion Acts of Green® demonstrates the kind of environmental impact that can be made when millions of people, corporations and organizations make commitments, both small and large, to better their environment.

    Hurrah for U of A!!!!


  112. On February 9th, 2011 at 1:29 pm Mary Jo Cooley Said:

    Great idea! Good luck!!


  113. On February 9th, 2011 at 1:43 pm wegoum rebie Said:

    Biofuel innovation,great job; this is great idea.


  114. On February 9th, 2011 at 2:11 pm Bill Uzzell Said:

    I agree completely that using our food supply for fuel is crazy. It’s no wonder people in impoverished nations hate us. This sounds like a great idea. Is it economically feasable and can it be produced on a large enough scale?


  115. On February 9th, 2011 at 2:12 pm Tanya Ruble Said:

    Great job! I am so proud of one of my former students for her work on this project. Go Melissa!


  116. On February 9th, 2011 at 3:47 pm Becca Carlson Said:

    Keep up the good work!


  117. On February 9th, 2011 at 8:25 pm Rory Ellermeyer Said:

    This is AWESOME! Great work! :) Best of luck U of A!!


  118. On February 9th, 2011 at 8:51 pm Ivan Schleder Said:

    Awesome!


  119. On February 9th, 2011 at 8:57 pm Mary Bedosky Said:

    I am very impressed with this project. I especially like the fact that it does not affect our food supply like other sources. Way to go Dr. Jamie and class!


  120. On February 9th, 2011 at 9:23 pm H Ryan Said:

    Excellent!!


  121. On February 9th, 2011 at 9:54 pm daisy Said:

    WOW! Love it!


  122. On February 9th, 2011 at 10:48 pm melanie garcia Said:

    great project


  123. On February 10th, 2011 at 10:53 am Kathryn Birchmeier Said:

    Can’t wait to see this on PBS!


  124. On February 10th, 2011 at 12:37 pm Kristine Said:

    I like the idea that it wouldn’t take a whole lot to convert from our present fuel to your Butanol. Best of luck!!! From Cub Scout 142, Wyoming MN.


  125. On February 10th, 2011 at 5:58 pm Anne Grosvenor Said:

    The use of ethanol as a fuel has increased the price of corn and had an impact on food prices worldwide. This approach would be preferable to reducing global food supply. Good luck!


  126. On February 10th, 2011 at 6:48 pm Darrell Vincent Said:

    Great ideas…keep digging into new better ways for energy please


  127. On February 11th, 2011 at 11:53 am Abby Head Said:

    I like this idea and am interested in seeing the research advance!


  128. On February 11th, 2011 at 3:25 pm Tomario King Said:

    Nice Video


  129. On February 11th, 2011 at 5:35 pm Becky Sconyers Said:

    Very interesting indeed!! Food for fuel., Algea for fuel. Keep up the research, you are our future!! Good Luck.


  130. On February 11th, 2011 at 7:13 pm Sarah Moore Said:

    Best of luck in your research. Very refreshing to see a push on for a more sustainable approach to alternative fuels that does NOT encroach upon our food supply. There has to be a better way than ethanol. This could be it.


  131. On February 11th, 2011 at 10:24 pm Siri Said:

    nice job :)


  132. On February 12th, 2011 at 2:05 am Ibett Olaechea Taipe Said:

    Best of luck and keep forward!


  133. On February 12th, 2011 at 10:03 am William Munson Said:

    PBS has got to select this project for the show in April. This is the future of alternative energy! Congrats!


  134. On February 13th, 2011 at 1:08 am maryam Said:

    I would like it. getting energy from algae which first seems have no use in energy field, but there is great potential in fact. this idea is innovate and needs researches. good luck


  135. On February 13th, 2011 at 12:29 pm Chris Said:

    Thankfully, a serious move away from ethanol to a fuel that is better for the environment and for equipment that uses it.
    Well done program!


  136. On February 13th, 2011 at 4:06 pm alex jackson Said:

    Quality work, great job!


  137. On February 13th, 2011 at 9:29 pm Kerri L Said:

    Very nice work- good luck!


  138. On February 14th, 2011 at 11:00 am William Munson Said:

    OK PBS – the people have spoken! 720 votes and counting… I look forward to seeing this project on your show!


  139. On February 14th, 2011 at 12:05 pm Jonathan Tygart Said:

    GO UA Chem. Engineering!!! I’m very proud of you guys. This is an incredible idea. I can’t wait to fill my vehicle with Butanol and know that I am making a positive impact on the environment. Thank you for all of your time in research and commitment to the idea.


  140. On February 14th, 2011 at 4:00 pm Jeremy Stout Said:

    GO RaZoRbAcKs!!! PBS all the WAYYYY!!!


  141. On February 14th, 2011 at 5:10 pm Dennis Broadwater Said:

    Love the project!


  142. On February 14th, 2011 at 11:15 pm Bethany SI Said:

    This is totally awesome. Thanks for hard work and fresh perspectives.


  143. On February 14th, 2011 at 11:40 pm Alfiatunnur Said:

    Well done!


  144. On February 15th, 2011 at 10:24 am Cate Said:

    That was great! You have my vote!


  145. On February 15th, 2011 at 10:29 am Steven Molina Said:

    i wish i was in the u of a already cause its a cool college!:)


  146. On February 15th, 2011 at 10:42 am Cat Donnelly Said:

    This whole bio-fuel thing needs to be less politicized to make progress in this direction. We definitely need for bio-fuels to not come from our food supply, which is a stance that the University of Arkansas has taken time and time again, and still the government has turned to soy and corn to produce bio-fuels. We can’t complain about the rising cost of beef and chicken among other things that are fed on these products, as well as what winds up on our own dinner plate. We need to think truly alternative. Thank you for keeping on with the fight. :)


  147. On February 15th, 2011 at 10:46 am Logan Kirchhof Said:

    Awesome job!


  148. On February 15th, 2011 at 11:15 am Analy Said:

    I believe that it’s great that people are thinking GREEN !!!!! :D


  149. On February 15th, 2011 at 11:16 am bluyonder Said:

    There will not be one single answer to our future energy needs. The answer will be a combination of many different technologies just like this.
    “Let nothing go to waste.”


  150. On February 15th, 2011 at 11:38 am stormy hawk Said:

    the video was really cool!now i understand what butanol is.


  151. On February 15th, 2011 at 11:41 am gamerman Said:

    every thing is cool you can learn lots of stuff


  152. On February 15th, 2011 at 11:41 am dserve01 Said:

    this is a qood video


  153. On February 15th, 2011 at 12:26 pm Amber SI Said:

    You guys ROCK!! Keep up the good work!


  154. On February 15th, 2011 at 12:42 pm Jaquez Marquett saucier Said:

    Michelle Shepherd is one hot chick:) are u single michelle Shepherd?
    anyways it was awesome


  155. On February 15th, 2011 at 12:45 pm jose cruz Said:

    keep the work you guys are doing


  156. On February 15th, 2011 at 12:53 pm austin mccuistion Said:

    butenol sounds very good for the enviornment! keep up the good work! :)


  157. On February 15th, 2011 at 1:05 pm emily si Said:

    great work


  158. On February 15th, 2011 at 1:36 pm Jordan SI Said:

    great project


  159. On February 15th, 2011 at 1:42 pm Dr.DB Said:

    Getting butanol in an environmentally friendly way is a great idea. I congratulate the U of Arkansas students for their innovation in energy technology.


  160. On February 15th, 2011 at 2:00 pm Paula Agee Said:

    Innovative idea! Keep up the good work!


  161. On February 15th, 2011 at 3:48 pm Dianne Said:

    Go University of Arkansas!!


  162. On February 15th, 2011 at 4:16 pm Kendra F. Said:

    U of A!


  163. On February 15th, 2011 at 4:19 pm Rachel Said:

    Great idea. Hope you get on PBS


  164. On February 15th, 2011 at 4:28 pm Dawn Said:

    Great idea. Good luck – you have my vote!


  165. On February 15th, 2011 at 4:29 pm Dawn Said:

    Great idea! you have my vote


  166. On February 15th, 2011 at 4:47 pm Abbey Cook Said:

    Sounds like a great idea. My vote is DEFINATELY yours!!


  167. On February 15th, 2011 at 5:44 pm Mason SI Said:

    Way to go U of A. Got my vote!


  168. On February 15th, 2011 at 6:14 pm bhealthy Said:

    This seems like a fantastic project! (I wish my son’s college was involved in this kind of green energy innovation, but since they’re not, I hope U. of A. wins!)


  169. On February 15th, 2011 at 6:20 pm John Dempsey Said:

    Jeremy, there is a real need for this kind of research. Keep on keepin’ on!


  170. On February 15th, 2011 at 8:20 pm Casey Bromley Said:

    Way to go Jeremy! Go U of A!


  171. On February 15th, 2011 at 8:25 pm Wes Salsbury Said:

    I don’t know much about Algae, but I do know that it grows wildly in and around water. This is a great idea.


  172. On February 16th, 2011 at 2:11 am Debbie Said:

    I think this has real potential and should be pursued. We need to be free from foreign energy sources.


  173. On February 16th, 2011 at 3:19 am isil Said:

    Great work!


  174. On February 16th, 2011 at 11:14 am Scott L Said:

    Great idea! Sounds like a viable alternative fuel.


  175. On February 16th, 2011 at 11:18 am Flannery Said:

    Best of luck to UA! Heard about this through the Trav, good luck you guys!


  176. On February 16th, 2011 at 1:15 pm Brandon Horvath Said:

    voted for ya! good luck!


  177. On February 16th, 2011 at 1:30 pm Sharon Gage Said:

    A LOT OF STUDENTS HAVE GONE TO UACCB AND THEN TRANSFERRED TO U OF A FAYETTEVILLE INCLUDING MYSELF,BUT JEREMY IS ONE OF OUR BRIGHTEST STARS! WE ARE VERY PROUD OF YOU, JEREMY! I SHOULD HAVE KNOWN YOU WOULD BE INVOLVED IN A PROJECT LIKE THIS. I HOPE YOU GUYS WIN B/C THIS NEEDS TO BE EXAMINED MORE CLOSELY–THANK YOU FOR LOOKING TO THE FUTURE…I THINK ITS GREAT TO GET EVERYTHING WE CAN OUT OF OUR RESOURCES. MY MOM ALWAYS SAID THAT WHEN SHE WAS A KID AND THEY WOULD SLAUGHTER A HOG THEY USED EVERYTHING BUT THE SQUEEL!
    GO BUTANOL! LOVE THEM HOGS-YOU ROCK U OF A!


  178. On February 16th, 2011 at 2:23 pm Will Scott Said:

    Great research for America’s energy future!


  179. On February 16th, 2011 at 2:40 pm Jacki Frost Said:

    WOOO PIG!! I’m proud of JEREMY STOUT! Way to rep our school!


  180. On February 16th, 2011 at 3:00 pm Jessica S SI Said:

    Great idea!! Good luck!!! Go HOGS!


  181. On February 16th, 2011 at 3:01 pm Deborah Frazier Said:

    I am excited about this project. I am encouraged by an alternative fuel product that does not compete with our food source. I am especially excited that this alterative is better for our planet and this ensure a brighter tomorrow generations to come. I vote YES for this project!


  182. On February 16th, 2011 at 4:12 pm Maria Fabiana Pena Said:

    nice project!


  183. On February 16th, 2011 at 4:55 pm ghouse Said:

    Wouldn’t it be cool to create a CO2 scrubber based on this algae. CO2 emissions created during the combustion of fossils fuels such as coal, oil, and gas could be bubbled through this algae based scrubber and converted to butanol for use as a fuel source.

    ALI the work your doing could help change the world! WOW!


  184. On February 16th, 2011 at 5:21 pm Turner Tomlinson Said:

    VOTED


  185. On February 16th, 2011 at 5:23 pm Daniel Said:

    Algae is so plentiful this is awesome!


  186. On February 16th, 2011 at 6:15 pm G. David Gearhart Said:

    As the price of oil continues to creep upwards, it’s a relief to know that our students and faculty are at the forefront of sustainable energy solutions with the conversion of algae into butonal. I’m extremely proud that the University of Arkansas offers our students meaningful research opportunities and the chance to engage with some of the most pressing challenges of the day. This is wonderful work.


  187. On February 16th, 2011 at 6:19 pm Savannah SI Said:

    Awesome idea! Good luck! Go hogs!!!


  188. On February 16th, 2011 at 6:22 pm William Munson Said:

    yeah…almost up to 1,000 votes! PBS can’t say “no” to this one!


  189. On February 16th, 2011 at 8:58 pm Ewald Said:

    Go razorbacks! Let’s make this known to the wider world.


  190. On February 16th, 2011 at 10:11 pm Andre Da Costa Said:

    I support the idea.

    Andre


  191. On February 16th, 2011 at 10:44 pm Damon Said:

    go uofa, bioengineering at uofa is also working in this


  192. On February 16th, 2011 at 11:03 pm mark trigg Said:

    What a great idea!! Good luck, we NEED you to make this work!!


  193. On February 17th, 2011 at 12:01 am Abbie Little Said:

    This is amazing! You guys have totally got this :D


  194. On February 17th, 2011 at 12:34 am Lin Oliver Said:

    Ethanol from corn is clearly not the way to go. This research project presents an exciting alternative and should definitely be pursued. It is great to see it happening right here in Arkansas.


  195. On February 17th, 2011 at 1:56 am Mr. Shaquille Lowe Said:

    This is an awesome project. It’s great to students working this hard to get a project done. I could definately see this project on PBS!


  196. On February 17th, 2011 at 9:53 am Dan Cathey Said:

    Great to know that alternatives are being explored. Even more impressive that I had the privlidege to teach one of the researchers! I’m very proud of you and wish you the best. Go and change the world.


  197. On February 17th, 2011 at 10:01 am William Munson Said:

    I am really looking forward to seeing this project on PBS in April!


  198. On February 17th, 2011 at 10:44 am Keukeu Abdullah Said:

    Wow great idea !


  199. On February 17th, 2011 at 11:09 am Minghui Gui Said:

    Good idea! I like it very much.


  200. On February 17th, 2011 at 11:12 am JanieP Said:

    Yes! This is a terrific project.


  201. On February 17th, 2011 at 11:19 am Li Xiao Said:

    Great ideal. Hope you to be successful !


  202. On February 17th, 2011 at 12:19 pm Brian E. Haggard Said:

    Two thumbs up!


  203. On February 17th, 2011 at 12:45 pm sherrispears Said:

    Very interesting!


  204. On February 17th, 2011 at 12:50 pm Simon Ang Said:

    An important and timely research project.


  205. On February 17th, 2011 at 12:51 pm Simon Ang Said:

    An important and timely reserach project.


  206. On February 17th, 2011 at 1:15 pm Michael Bono Said:

    This group has been doing great research so far and is perfect for Planet Forward. I believe that they have an article getting published in the Journal of Separation Science, about how to release carbohydrates from algae. Awesome. Let’s see this research continue! Seaweed power!


  207. On February 17th, 2011 at 1:36 pm Jake Henn Said:

    I hope to see this on PBS


  208. On February 17th, 2011 at 2:01 pm Mary Wright Said:

    Terrific idea !!! I’m all for it !!!


  209. On February 17th, 2011 at 2:11 pm Mary Wright Said:

    This is the one !!!


  210. On February 17th, 2011 at 2:50 pm Danielle Julie Carrier Said:

    Very good idea.


  211. On February 17th, 2011 at 3:45 pm Javene Mounce Said:

    Good Luck! Go U of A.


  212. On February 17th, 2011 at 4:10 pm jadickey Said:

    Great!!!! University of Arkansas!!!!!!!


  213. On February 17th, 2011 at 4:18 pm John A. White Said:

    Very impressive. I am very proud of our team for its choice of topic and its work in addressing biofuels.


  214. On February 17th, 2011 at 4:29 pm Casey Ball Said:

    excited about this research! Impressive U of A


  215. On February 17th, 2011 at 5:01 pm Mike Lorenz Said:

    Good looking project


  216. On February 17th, 2011 at 5:11 pm Laura Said:

    awesome – get this on PBS!


  217. On February 17th, 2011 at 5:18 pm R. Panneer Selvam Said:

    This is a timley project during energy crisis. I wish them all teh best to get into PBS series.


  218. On February 17th, 2011 at 5:33 pm Nan Zheng Said:

    I love this project!


  219. On February 17th, 2011 at 5:46 pm Papi Wenzel Said:

    To your success!


  220. On February 17th, 2011 at 6:08 pm Suresh Kumar Said:

    Great Research Idea!


  221. On February 17th, 2011 at 6:49 pm Yulong Su Said:

    Great Project!!!


  222. On February 17th, 2011 at 7:02 pm jovita rostro Said:

    Great project. Keep up the good work(:


  223. On February 17th, 2011 at 7:19 pm Anne Raines Said:

    Way to go!!


  224. On February 17th, 2011 at 7:34 pm Andrew Said:

    I think that this research may be the corner stone of the 21st century. Finally, a way to replace gasoline. Keep up the good work.


  225. On February 17th, 2011 at 7:37 pm Raymond T. Walter Said:

    I’ve had my eye on energy from algae for some time now. It may be the most economic choice to satisfy our growing energy and ecological demands. Go Hogs go!


  226. On February 17th, 2011 at 7:46 pm Tandi SI Said:

    I voted for you! :)


  227. On February 17th, 2011 at 8:28 pm Jesse Smith Said:

    This is an incredible idea. Something that is not used for much else and that is easy to cultivate being used to produce energy could solve many of our energy problems.


  228. On February 17th, 2011 at 8:47 pm Jonathan Said:

    This is the sort of research we need! I’m glad the UofA is looking into alternative fuel sources.


  229. On February 17th, 2011 at 10:01 pm Justin Smith Said:

    The potential applications for this kind of research are endless. Good luck and Go Hogs!!!


  230. On February 17th, 2011 at 10:04 pm bjrush Said:

    Real world applications abound. Thanks for improving the quality of life.


  231. On February 17th, 2011 at 10:45 pm Katie Alsobrooks Said:

    great idea! go university of arkansas!!!


  232. On February 17th, 2011 at 10:47 pm Gibran Santana Said:

    good stuff guys
    i hope to see this in PBS


  233. On February 17th, 2011 at 11:19 pm Yuping Bao Said:

    Exciting area. Hope to see this on PBS


  234. On February 18th, 2011 at 12:04 am Ujjwala Said:

    Great Idea!! Keep up the good work.


  235. On February 18th, 2011 at 12:18 am Jody R Said:

    This idea has definately proved that it deserves to be on PBS!! Keep up the great work U of A!!!


  236. On February 18th, 2011 at 12:46 am Mark Rechtin Said:

    Very cool. would love to see on PBS!


  237. On February 18th, 2011 at 9:27 am B. Martin Said:

    Great job! Looking forward to this being on PBS! Good luck.


  238. On February 18th, 2011 at 9:35 am Keith E Said:

    I can’t wait to see what this reserach can hold!


  239. On February 18th, 2011 at 12:42 pm Greg Salamo Said:

    This is a great project and will have significant impact


  240. On February 18th, 2011 at 1:09 pm Wendy Soto Marca Said:

    Excellent work! I look forward to seeing more research on this.


  241. On February 18th, 2011 at 1:22 pm Mohamed Said:

    Exellent Work! A great project idea!


  242. On February 18th, 2011 at 1:34 pm Mauricio. M Said:

    Nice job. It’s a great idea!


  243. On February 18th, 2011 at 1:46 pm Giovani Santos Said:

    This is a very goof job, U of A!


  244. On February 18th, 2011 at 1:54 pm Lucia Smith Said:

    Awesome Job u Of A!


  245. On February 18th, 2011 at 2:20 pm Pratyush Rai Said:

    Might want to put in a sentence or two about the how growing algae negates the carbon footprint of the car burning the butanol.
    Any video on the scale up reactor(s) for this process can be helpful.


  246. On February 18th, 2011 at 2:27 pm Fernando García Said:

    Nice project! Keep it up razorbacks!


  247. On February 18th, 2011 at 2:45 pm Tamara Ellenbecker Said:

    Go HOGS!!!


  248. On February 18th, 2011 at 3:21 pm Ross SI Said:

    Awesome Job! Thanks Megan


  249. On February 18th, 2011 at 4:07 pm R. Vyas Said:

    Seems a wonderful idea.


  250. On February 18th, 2011 at 5:17 pm Christopher Vincent Said:

    Butanol is a significant improvement over ethanol in car fuels.
    -Christopher Vincent, Strategic Biofuels Advisory


  251. On February 18th, 2011 at 5:31 pm Lee Gillow Said:

    Biofuels development is one of the most important avenues we need to follow to insure a future for our childern.


  252. On February 18th, 2011 at 6:28 pm Rhonda Said:

    I think that this may help the environment and what it could be used for to help reduce the cost of fuel and other items


  253. On February 18th, 2011 at 6:52 pm Laura Said:

    What could be better! Helping the enviornment, keeping our food cost down, much cleaner way to produce a fuel !!!


  254. On February 18th, 2011 at 8:13 pm M.Salman Sabir Said:

    This is really good! Hope it gets to PBS!


  255. On February 18th, 2011 at 8:18 pm Marilyn E. Brwaswell Said:

    Keep up the good work U of A.


  256. On February 18th, 2011 at 8:20 pm Marilyn E. Brwaswell Said:

    sKeep up the great work of U of Arkansas.


  257. On February 18th, 2011 at 10:09 pm Becci Said:

    I hope you win and will continue to do your research.


  258. On February 18th, 2011 at 10:15 pm Becci Said:

    Oh, and I just read an article about how dangerous ethanol can be if it catches fire. So I am all for a new feul source.


  259. On February 18th, 2011 at 10:31 pm Lucy Fry Said:

    very interesting. i vote for it


  260. On February 18th, 2011 at 11:37 pm Jack Born Said:

    This is awesome! GOO HOGS!!!!


  261. On February 18th, 2011 at 11:41 pm Carolyn Minyard Said:

    I vote for it.


  262. On February 18th, 2011 at 11:59 pm Valerie Hohenberger Said:

    Love the idea! Thanks for seeing into the future and trying to make it better for all of us!


  263. On February 19th, 2011 at 12:01 am David Hohenberger Said:

    You have my vote dudes!


  264. On February 19th, 2011 at 2:57 am William Munson Said:

    And the winner is…THIS PROJECT! Congrats, Jamie Hestekin and the U of A chemistry department!


  265. On February 19th, 2011 at 2:16 pm FN LEE Said:

    I vote for this project. Hopefully they can marry their concepts with efforts to clean agricultural runoff – especially that from chicken houses and feed lots.


  266. On February 19th, 2011 at 7:36 pm Anne Luster Said:

    This is a terrificly worthwhile project. I hope they win!


  267. On February 21st, 2011 at 10:15 am Darlene Beeler Said:

    An exciting idea and I’m excited to cast my vote!


  268. On February 21st, 2011 at 10:54 pm T Moeller Said:

    Wonderful idea!


  269. On February 22nd, 2011 at 4:36 pm Beverly Meinzer Said:

    Great work! Such an exciting idea! I vote for this project; hope to see more.


  270. On February 24th, 2011 at 5:20 pm Sharon Gaber Said:

    What a fantastic project!
    I am, once again, very proud of our University of Arkansas faculty and students.


  271. On February 27th, 2011 at 9:25 am Adrian Poynter Said:

    Great Idea!
    I hope this becomes workable and cost effective, because ethanol is not cost effective and we need this alternative. Good Luck!


  272. On March 1st, 2011 at 4:17 am Dennis Pacholski Said:

    If we had more of these projects, we would not be as dependant on foreign oil.


  273. On March 6th, 2011 at 9:08 pm Matilde Said:

    great.


  274. On March 6th, 2011 at 9:24 pm Camila Salinas Said:

    cool project!


  275. On April 22nd, 2011 at 12:12 pm Karthic Said:

    I had a few questions related to the project:
    1. Has any work being carried on the toxicity of the microbe to butanol?
    2. What is the concentration of butanol being produced and how much time does it take to produce that concentration?
    3. What are the other products that are produced during the process?


  276. On May 5th, 2011 at 11:36 am David Ramey Said:

    Well done Team well done.

    Great little video…

    It will encourage many more to get involved with Butanol.

    I look forward to you continuous model.

    You are solving the real problems for the future of our planet.

    Many thanks for being inspired.

    Keep up the great effort.

    David


  277. On November 9th, 2011 at 9:57 am Susanna, PF Web Maven Said:

    This post has been translated into Estonian by the Wild Web Flower Society here: http://blog.1800flowers.com/international/energy-research-et/

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