Flying With Algae-Based Biofuel

Biofuels are taking a giant step forward with advances in algae fuel research. Researchers from two different universities are pursuing research into the technology that derives fuel from algae.

Arizona State University researchers are focusing on the creation of biofuel for commercial uses. The two researchers have patented their technology that converts algae into kerosene that's used in the biofuel. This new approach is much lower in cost than the traditional method of producing petroleum-based kerosene.

The Arizona State University researchers have already moved into a pilot production program. With the investment of $3 million from Heliae Development and Science Foundation Arizona, the researchers plan to take the algae research to the next step.

Across the country, researchers from the University of Virginia are working on producing algae commercially. Their research is based on the premise that oil production can be increased by up to 40%, with the right combination of CO2 and organic material.

So how can kerosene be derived from algae? Certain strains of algae can convert some of their cellular mass into oil with high concentrations of fatty acids. Once the oil is deoxygenated, hydrocarbon chains are created that resemble those found in kerosene. After a small amount of fuel additives is added, the biofuel can be used for flying jet planes.

Amazingly, the US Department of Energy reports that algae can double their weight several times a day. This allows them to produce significantly more oil per acre than soybeans. The oil is suitable to burn in diesel engines or can be made into biodiesel.


On another note, check back later this week for a continuation of eco-friendly paint reviews...