Published 04th April, 2011
Montana State University in the US is offering a licence for a fungus call Hypoxylon sp. which can help enhance fuel additives.
The fungus produces cineol, or eucalyptol, which acts as an octane booster. It also produces cyclohexane molecules, which, when combined with cineol, can help prevent separation of ethanol-petrol mixutures.
The fungus, according to MSU, is the first viable alternative to eucalyptus bark and leaf harvesting which is not economic for mass production. Further uses of eucalyptol include pharmaceutical applications.
Expressions of interest to licence the innovation are open until 15 April 2011.