Researchers at the Department of Energy's Ames Laboratory said the technology could be used to determine prime harvest conditions in the field, much the way vintners monitor grapes for peak flavor.

Analytical chemist Emily Smith said the technology -- called Raman imaging -- compares spectroscopic analysis of plant cell material with microscopic images of the cell structure to determine the suitability of crops for use in ethanol production. Plants high in cellulose and low in lignin are most cost effective to convert into ethanol. The researchers said the technology could also be adapted to study crops for pharmaceutical uses.

"Just like vintners monitor and test the sugar content of their grapes in the field, biofuel producers could potentially use this technology to determine if their crop was at optimal development for conversion to ethanol," said Smith.

Ames Laboratory is operated for the Department of Energy by Iowa State University and conducts research into various areas of national concern, including energy resources, high-speed computer design and the synthesis and study of new materials.