Algal Biodiesel via Innovative Harvesting and Aquaculture Systems

Microalgae hold great promise as a high-yield, non-food crop source of lipids for the production of biodiesel. However, a number of challenges need to be met. Two of the major challenges are the high costs of algae cultivation and harvesting (i.e., de-watering). Microalgae hold great promise as a high-yield, non-food crop source of lipids for the production of biodiesel but a number of challenges need to be met. Two of the major challenges are the high costs of algae cultivation and harvesting (i.e., de-watering). Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Efficient isolation of algae is often cited as a major obstacle to cost-effective production of algal biodiesel. If successful, this project could facilitate wide-scale use of this alternative energy feedstock as well as a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.