Harris Group evaluated a proprietary process of NREL that turns lignin, a common natural byproduct of commercial waste streams, into high-octane automobile fuel additives. We provided engineering and scientific evaluation of the process; we recommended process improvement modifications; and we provided a framework for future process testing. Harris Group also estimated the cost to commercialize and operate a facility using this new technology.

NREL's process could be used with a variety of biomass resources including energy crops (switchgrass, poplar trees), agricultural residue (rice straw, corn fiber), forestry wastes (sawdust, forest undergrowth), and even discarded newspapers and other wastes.

Harris Group has also provided services to NREL in their development of biomass-to-ethanol processes. Our support has included feed handling, emissions management, reactor materials, and design optimization.