We remember from high school chemistry that a catalyst is a substance that does not chemically take part in a reaction but speeds up the process (usually by providing physical sites for molecules to get together and combine). I just heard great news: there is a catalyst available for speeding up the process of converting coal(US's most plentiful energy resource) to liquid fuel (diesel, jet fuel, gasoline). Nope this is not some new exotic material - it is the Air Force! - of all unlikely possibilities. The Air Force is now proposing to aid companies that can provide fuel from coal for it's planes. Whoopee! (or Ye Haw in Texas). This is just the kicker needed to get this important energy process off the ground (where it has lain in disarray since right after Carter!). Assuming it is not blocked by the environmentalists (with whom I usually but not always agree), this substantial nudge should get the ball rolling enough that Exxon-Mobil etc. will also get interested. And the net result could even be eventually lower prices for all, not just the Air Force. Plus less need to try to get more oil out of the Middle East - Whoopee again. So I do hope (audaciously) it works. In addition to a catalyst heat usually needs to be applied so I am listening to see who in Congress will turn the Bunsen burner up on this one.