"The problem of using cellulose to provide energy is that glucose is locked tightly in a polymer structure," said Guay. "Through the use of enzymes, we can release the glucose and then convert it into biofuel."

A native of Appleton, Guay is a 1996 UWSP paper science graduate and holds a doctorate in organic chemistry from the University of Maine. Prior to joining the UWSP faculty in 2004, he worked as a technical manager for Integrated Paper Services in Appleton.