Bioprocessing
Initially known as the Bioprocessing/Biotechnology Program, this research area focused on basic science and research related to fossil fuel use in the areas of biology, biochemistry, microbiology, and bioengineering.

The early emphasis was on bioprocesses that foster:

• Innovative uses for coal combustion byproducts
  such as fly ash, offgases, and coal fines;
• Development of alternative fuels, such as hydrogen
  and methane; and
• Identification of biomass sources, such as noxious
  plants and waste plant products, to cofire with coal.

The program also focused on mitigating environmental impacts from mining and use of fossil fuels, addressing environmental issues that affect the power industry, and developing biological greenhouse gas sequestration technologies.

One noteworthy project success was Environmentally Safe Control of Zebra Mussel Fouling which entailed the development of safe and economical bacterial toxins that affect only zebra mussels. These tiny organisms have blocked utility cooling water intakes and pipes, causing more than $3 billion in economic impacts.

The Bioprocessing Program shifted its emphasis from more traditional types of research, designed to make coal a more environmentally friendly fuel, to more innovative approaches that sought to help the power generation sector overcome persistent environmental problems while developing creative new energy options in conjunction with coal use.

The Bioprocessing Program contributed greatly to our understanding that bioprocesses can be integrated into efforts to enhance the economic and environmental sustainability of continued fossil fuel use.