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Photo of a long hallway with two large neutralization tanks. The large, cylindrical tanks are surrounded by a network of tubes, and a ladder stands against the closer of the two tanks. A man in a lab coat and a safety helmet is checking the tubes at the farther of the tanks.

Through biomass research, NREL is developing technologies to convert biomass—plant matter such as trees, grasses, agricultural residue, algae, and other biological material—to fuels. These biofuels will reduce our nation's dependence on foreign oil, improve our air quality, and support rural economies.

Biomass capabilities and projects at NREL are focused on:

  • Biomass characterization
  • Biochemical conversion
  • Thermochemical conversion
  • Chemical and catalyst science
  • Integrated biorefinery processes
  • Microalgal biofuels
  • Biomass process and sustainability analyses.

NREL is the lead national laboratory of the virtual National Bioenergy Center, which supports and coordinates the nation's biomass research activities.

Learn more about biomass energy basics.

Integrated Biorefinery Research Facility Fact Sheet (PDF 519 KB) Download Adobe Reader