Scientists discover a new way to convert corn waste into low-cost sugar for biofuel

Washington State University scientists developed a new process to produce low-cost sugar from crop waste like corn stalks. Using ammonium sulfite-based alkali salts, they efficiently break down cellulosic biomass into sugar for biofuels and bioproducts. The method could make sugar as cheap as 28 cents per pound, potentially revolutionizing sustainable biofuel production and offering economic benefits for farmers.