Design of Novel Terpene-Derived Drop-In Biofuels Using Rational Structure Based Enzymatic Engineering: Preliminary Studies

This proposal develops some of the tools needed to create novel, terpene derived hydrocarbons as new drop-in transportation fuels because they can be nearly perfect substitutes for gasoline, diesel or aviation fuel without vehicle engine or distribution or infrastructure constraints. In addition to novel biofuels, the proposed technology could be used to prepare bio-based organic chemicals for other commercial applications. These "green chemistry" methods will use agricultural products as their source of carbon, potentially contributing to long term economic growth in rural communities.