The prototype of a clean-burning energy system that uses rocket technology to generate electricity without causing carbon dioxide pollution is being tested at the University of California, Davis. The prototype was developed by Sacramento-based Clean Energy Systems, founded by former employees of rocket maker Aerojet Inc. to adapt rocket technology for energy generation. UC Davis emeritus professor Harry Brandt is chairman of the company's board and advises the company on patent issues. The company has contracted to use specialized facilities in the laboratory of UC Davis combustion specialist Ian Kennedy to test the system. The system burns fuel, such as natural gas, in pure oxygen instead of air, said Kennedy. As a result, the exhaust contains water as steam, pure carbon dioxide and no nitrogen compounds or other contaminants. The steam can be used to drive a turbine and generate electricity, while the carbon dioxide can be recovered and used for industrial processes, for oil extraction, or simply stored instead of releasing it into the atmosphere, said Kennedy. Emissions of carbon dioxide and other "greenhouse gases" are thought to contribute to global warming. The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, in partnership with the National Energy Technology Laboratory and Clean Energy Systems Inc., is proposing to build a larger research facility with funds from the U.S. Department of Energy. More information: .