Oil Bearing Algae
The next generation of biofuels seems to be just a few years from becoming a major factor in the world’s mix of energy sources. There are a number of strains of algae that are oil producing and they can be harvested to produce biodiesel, ethanol and other energy products. Algae production in aquatic facilities produces far greater quantities of oil than the comparative square footage of corn, soybeans, or other terrestrially grown crops.
Algae oil is currently extracted by centrifuge or by pressure treatment, but there is experimentation focused on genetically altering some of these plants to expel oil naturally as they grow. As for yields, work is ongoing at the University of Virginia to pump carbon dioxide into the algae stimulate faster growth. Sewage and other organic materials could increase yields as well. This latter development could represent a breakthrough, in that the same process that generates green oil would simultaneously disposing of sewage and carbon dioxide, thereby cleaning the environment and using up large quantities of a greenhouse gas.
The cultivation and processing of oil algae is still in its beginning stage, and several obstacles need to be overcome. One is the simple need for water acreage. As quickly as algae can grow and be harvested, the current process of using ponds and other bodies of water could only go so far in providing a substantial percentage of America’s energy needs. Another need is to solve the problem of getting the CO gas into the mixture.
OriginOil Inc. is conducting prototype testing with a bioreactor taking the place of a natural body of water. Initial results are much higher yields, based on the fact that algae growth can be stimulated all day, every day, whereas pond algae rely on sunshine. Further the sunshine can only stimulate the topmost layer of algae, whereas the entire contents of the bioreactor can be stimulated. The next phase will be difficult though, as the prototype reactor would have to be adapted to operate as a huge facility in comparison to the prototype.
Another technological hurdle involves methods of extraction of the oil. Current processes are inefficient, which means that the extraction requires a substantial application of energy. Running pumps and other motor-driven equipment also requires energy OriginOil’s chosen method extraction is properly tuned microwaves that break the cell walls and release the oil. The solution for the other energy users is still being sought, although solar powered pumps could provide part of the answer.
It is estimated that by 2012, algae oil could be a major source of America’s energy supply.
