Change is upon us

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have come up with a way to convert cellulose found in all plant material into a biofuel. Using solvents and additives that can dissolve cellulose, they converted it to the biofuel DMF in two steps. DMF has the same energy content as gasoline, doesn’t mix with water and is compatible with the existing liquid transportation fuel infrastructure. Biomass derived from plants and crop waste can be turned into this fuel.

A group of MIT undergrads have created a shock absorber that harvests energy from a vehicle's movement and can improve fuel efficiency by as much as 10%. The new shocks have a tiny turbine powered by a generator, so each time a shock is compressed or extended, hydraulic fluid must pass by the turbine. An active electronic system controls the hydraulics and the car has a smoother ride while also generating electricity.

While testing of a 6-shock truck, they found each shock absorber is able to generate up to an average of 1 kW on a road. Ideal for the potholes of India??As is evident, efforts are all into creating newer sources of energy. The quest for more! But a much simpler and quicker way would be to concentrate on the negawatts.

According to Panarchy, a theory explaining evolution of complex systems from forests to markets suggests a new world order is approaching. ‘We will have to change not just the machines we use to produce and consume energy, but also the work we do, our activities, our financial systems, how we produce food, etc.’

The trigger point for such a transformation is already upon us. From inventing new machines we need to invent new ways to live!? Care to share your views?