While tremendous time and research is being put into new clean energy technologies, it seems that almost as many new developments are being gleaned by improving centuries-old methods. Gasification of carbon-based solids or liquids, long overlooked due to toxic byproducts and a supply of inexpensive oil once thought to be in exhaustible, provides an example of just such a makeover. 

Used for centuries in limited applications such as gaslights, gasification has been reborn through a series of technological advancements, from proprietary chemical catalysts to metal-coated sponge-like reaction environments that dramatically increase yield, such as being done at the Ames National Laboratory. It’s a process reinvented the process for a world of $120-a-barrel oil prices. 

While the chemistry of the process is a bit complicated, the end result is that now virtually any carbon-carrying compound, from coal to biomass to sewage, can become a viable source of energy. While large-scale production projects are currently still under development, it’s a promising revelation none the less.

In this regard, gasification follows in the footsteps turbine-driven ships, hydrogen-powered cars, and a plethora of other environmentally-friendly technologies just needing a few more tweaks for market viability, and a rise in energy prices to spur the research.