Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Hi,
This year i'm planning on doing science fair on biofuel efficiency. This project in particular interested me.
http://www.all-science-fair-projects.co ... 146_1.html
I was wondering if anyone had any ideas on how to expand on this? I was thinking something about improving efficiency of coconuts or sugar cane as a biofuel, but will this be too hard to do without a lab or a mentor? Also, how would I test the biofuel's efficiency?

Also, would it be too late to look into finding a mentor? I read through the "How to Find a Mentor" page and it mentioned that I should have tried working in his/her lab during the summer.. Will they still be willing to help me since I don't really have much lab experience besides the labs we've done in school

Thanks,
Jeremy

Hi Jeremy,

A mentor may still work with you if you haven't had any prior experience with them - it really depends on the person, how much help you need from them, their available times, etc. I think it is a good idea to still look for one now, but being very clear in what you need from them.

The project idea - biofuels is such an interesting topic. To consider how you might expand on that project, have you done any background research into biofuels. Alot of research is being done on algae. Have a look at these links and see if anything comes to mind. Perhaps you can extract energy from a different type of plant or speed up the methane reaction in the manure?

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... p011.shtml
https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... p034.shtml
https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... p019.shtml

Let me know what other questions come up.
Enjoy your project!

Tonya