Transplanted genes are turning alfalfa into something more than just cattle feed. Currently cellulases account for 40 percent of bioethanol's cost. Alfalfa is a hardy perennial that grows well in poor soil, and it's easy to extract enzymes from it. Not to mention the economy. He's investigating disinfection with ultraviolet light, one of several possible alternatives to chlorination.
Energy efficiency is likely to be a critical issue.
He says his research will focus both on water quality and on design and operation efficiency. The work will supplement a planned industry study of UV disinfection cosponsored by the Center.