# DLA NewsWire

/ Published Aug. 28, 2018

                180730-D-D0441-998.JPG                            University of Maine’s Biomass to Bio-products Pilot Plant at its Technology Research Center is working to convert cellulosic material, like recycled paper and cardboard, in to jet fuel. Photo courtesy of University of Maine.            SHARE IMAGE:Download ImageImage DetailsPhoto By: University of MaineVIRIN: 180901-D-YE683-021**Turning Paper Waste into Jet Fuel**Recycled paper and cardboard could be the jet fuel of the future. In the quest for a resilient and secure energy supply chain, Defense Logistics Agency Energy is investing in woody biomass to produce energy.“The pursuit of alternative energy is necessary to bring forth a robust and sustained domestic alternative fuels industry that will ease dependence on petroleum,” said Lindsey Hicks, the DLA Energy Readiness Program manager for research and development projects and initiatives.One of DLA Energy’s funded projects is the Biomass to Bio-products Pilot Plant at the University of Maine’s Technology Research Center. The plant is working to convert cellulosic material, like recycled paper and cardboard, into jet fuel. According to a UMaine news release, the plant is capable of processing up to 1 ton of woody biomass per day into chemicals that can be used to manufacture bio-products, including biofuels, bio-chemicals and advanced materials. Efforts to turn biomass into alternative fuel at UMaine began in 2010 when the DLA Energy Readiness Program awarded the university a three-year contract to complete the development of its fuel conversion technology as a laboratory bench procedure, Hicks said.Since the conclusion of the initial process development in 2012, UMaine has been working to expand the process to validate actual fuel production capability.

— Connie Braesch*DLA Energy Public Affairs*

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**Aviation Buyers Use Reverse Auctions, Save Taxpayer Money**More than 50 people attended one of three Defense Logistics Agency Aviation reverse auction training sessions held in the McKeever Auditorium on Defense Supply Center Richmond, Virginia, July 19. Dozens more from around the DLA enterprise caught the training via video teleconferencing. The sessions focused on highlighting the key functionality and look of the new Procurex/DLA Reverse Auction Platform, giving a better understanding of more complex platform functionality and a solid foundation to build and run reverse auction events.DeVora Seymore, procurement analyst, Programs Division, Procurement Process Support Directorate, DLA Aviation, helps manage the Reverse Auction Program for DLA Aviation.She said reverse auction is a computer software pricing tool that allows defense contractors to submit real-time, electronic bids in response to competitive solicitations. This pricing technique is used by buyers during discussions to establish the final offered price(s).

—  Leon MooreDLA Aviation Public Affairs

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**Supplier Conference Highlights DOD, Industry Partnerships**The 2018 Defense Logistics Agency Land and Maritime Supplier Conference and Exposition took place June 19-20 in  with discussions on evolving industry partnerships and small business opportunities. The national two-day conference provided opportunities for senior military, government and industry leaders from across the nation to participate in a variety of panel discussions and question-and-answer sessions covering topics across the military logistics enterprise.Several pieces of military equipment were on display inside the exhibit hall. The conference featured keynote addresses from military, industry and government leaders on a variety of topics ranging from performance based logistics to supply chain efficiencies and strategic objectives. The second day focused on future manpower and technology needs as well as the role of small businesses in supporting warfighter readiness. 

— Kristin MolinaroDLA Land and Maritime Public Affairs