Does the techology exist to make ethanol from wheat? Is so, why are US ethanol plants using only corn?

Question

I heard that European plants prefer to use wheat. Why? Is wheat better for global warming issues?

Answer 1

This might be your answer, from the National Association of Wheat Growers :

"There are a lot of things you can do with wheat and wheat straw, but one of the most promising new uses that has presented itself over the last number of years is cellulosic ethanol. Wheat straw is the feedstock of choice for many companies looking to commercialize this “second generation biofuel”. The catch is that there aren’t that many places in the country that can produce enough wheat straw for a full-size plant to be sustainable."

Check the link for more info.

Answer 2

Let's be straight on this one. Ethanol is an alternative to fossil fuels. Bad points: requires ag fields to grow the corn; burning still produces CO2.

Answer 3

I think it has to do with the sugar content of the crop.
Sugar cane is even better than corn.