Researchers at Baylor looking for ways to reduce fuel costs

With gas prices soaring ever higher — nearing $4.00 a gallon for even regular unleaded here in Waco, and even higher in other parts of the country — researchers at Baylor are investigating ways to make at least one alternative fuel cheaper to produce.

Dr. Kevin Chambliss, associate professor of chemistry and biochemistry, is leading a study of the by-products created during the production of ethanol. Those by-products are largely to blame for the high cost of ethanol, which in turn is one of the main things keeping ethanol from being a legitimate alternative fuel option.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently recognized the importance of this research by awarding Chambliss’ team a $492,000 grant to further their study.

Sic ’em, Baylor researchers!