All of my close personal friends and some of my not so close personal friends know that I have an intimate relationship with Scotland. Well, I should say the product that propels Scotland’s economy – Scotch Whisky.
Imagine my delight when I read that scientists at Edinburgh Napier University have developed what they have dubbed a “super” biofuel from the by-products of whisky production.
The creation of biobutanol, which has 30% more power output than ethanol, should be celebrated for a couple of reasons. The biofuel is derived from ‘pot ale’, the liquid from the copper stills, and ‘draff’, the spent grains. These two main ingredients are by-products of whisky production and as such don’t require the growing, maintaining and harvesting of specific crops for development. It’s also a truly sustainable source and I can attest to that.
Since the malt whisky industry in Scotland produces 1,600 million liters of pot ale and 187,000 tons of draff, there is reason to believe that biobutanol will be showing up at gas stations in Scotland and the UK very soon. Unlike ethanol no special adaptations will be required. You can substitute this super biofuel directly for gasoline in ordinary cars. I love it!
Puts a whole new meaning to “one for the road”.
Cheers!!
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