The story of mycodiesel

Abstract

Recently, a number of endophytic fungi have been discovered that produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) whilst growing on agricultural waste substrates, whose chemistry is best defined as hydrocarbon and hydrocarbon-like. These compounds have potential use as both ‘green chemicals’ and fuels. This report discusses the discovery of the first fungus proposed as a producer of ‘Mycodiesel’. Also mentioned are many examples of fungi making these VOCs and some of the novel methods that have been specifically developed and used to study the fungal production of hydrocarbons. Finally, the report concludes with a discussion of commercial scale up and feasibility of this approach in helping to solve the world's need for liquid fuels.