Weed = biofuel source
The cardoon is a thistle related to the artichoke and thus is known as the 'artichoke thistle'. It is found in such countries as Argentina, Australia, and United States and is considered a weed. In 2005, Europe launched the BIOCARD research project to look into using cardoon as a biofuel source. BIOCARD's objectives are to determine how much cardoon has to be grown to be viable, the cost to process its seeds into fuel, and if the resulting fuel is indeed cost effective. GAIKER-IK4, a participating organization within BIOCARD, is also looking into all aspects of biodiesel production to simplify it as well as process any waste matter.[Source: eitb24, Wikipedia]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
mkonkel 10:26AM (8/11/2006)
I know we have tons of these on my parents farm. They definitely are a weed.
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Howard Lee Harkness 2:14PM (8/11/2006)
The difference between a weed and a flower hinges on whether you want it in your garden, and sometimes on whether it continues to thrive despite determined efforts to eradicate it. If this plant (or even a genetically-enhanced version) ends up being useful for biofuel, then it will cease to be a weed.
It's "weed" status would at least hint that it doesn't need much fertilizing or tending, which is a plus. However, once you start farming something with the intention of making money, there are always unforeseen problems. For instance, maybe this weed only thrives if you are trying to exterminate it :)
It would be interesting to know how the folks with BIOCARD managed to identify the cardoon as a potential biofuel source. I also wonder if it will have the same potential as algae, some forms of which are nearly 50% lipid.
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mkonkel 5:05PM (8/11/2006)
It grows fine in areas where there is plenty of water. Also, most wildlife will not eat it. We bought a goat for the sole purpose of eating it. The cows would not eat the grass near it because they are so sharp.
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