Purdue launches five-year poplar biofuels research project

In Indiana, researchers at Purdue University have begun a five-year research project that will explore the use of poplar trees as feedstock for cellulosic ethanol, including 69 varieties of the tree, which will be studied for appropriateness as a feedstock.

Between their very fast growth rate and the fact that they’re vegetatively propagated, meaning that you can put a stick in the ground and t will grow roots and leaves, the researchers are confident the tree will become a major feedstock for the future. Removing sugars from the cell walls and large-scale planting and harvesting will be the key features of the research program.