The aerospace fuel of the future is not hydrogen or electricity

As efficient as fossil fuels are, their negative impact on the planet cannot be underestimated, as we have just explained. To solve this problem, there are all kinds of studies and proposals, but few of them are as interesting as what we present today.

Berkeley Lab researchers have succeeded in getting bacteria to produce a new biofuel with an energy density far greater than that of jet fuel (kerosene).

The new fuel candidate molecules are known as polycyclopropanated fatty acid methyl esters (POP-FAME) and consist of seven sets of cyclopropane rings.

These are rings of three carbon atoms connected in a triangular shape, which causes the bonds to form a 60 degree angle. The voltages of this acute angle contain a large potential energy that can be released during combustion.

Researchers have identified naturally occurring cyclopropane-producing bacteria in the Streptomyces family. and then copied the linked gene clusters into other bacteria more suitable for the lab.

The result was POP-FAME molecules, which the team called fulicins, which require just one chemical step to become a combustible fuel.

Next, Scientists conducted computer simulations of the resulting fuel to evaluate its properties. compared to conventional fuel.

This analysis showed that the new fuel would be safe and stable at room temperature and would an energy density greater than 50 megajoules per liter (MJ/L).

Compare, the energy density of gasoline is about 32 MJ/L, while that of jet and rocket fuel is 35 MJ/L.

This higher energy density can help vehicles go further on one tank, or reduce the amount of fuel needed to launch rocketssaving more space and weight for loading.

At the same time, the production of fuel from bacteria reduces their environmental impact.. Of course, this biofuel is not yet ready for use. The team must find a way to produce more so it can be tested in engines.

If it works, the bacteria could be what sends the next man to the moon.