Available for Licensing
TRL: 4
US Patent
Guy Robert Babbitt
Michael Ryan Buehner
David Jacob Rausen
Rich Schoonover
Christopher Wayne Turner
Kristina Weyer-Geigel
Peter Michael Young
Jessy McGowan
Jessy.McGowan@colostate.edu
970-491-7100
At a Glance
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a process and method for delivering gas to algal cultures, for the purpose of creating biofuels. The aim of this invention is to increase the photosynthesis rate of the algae and thus be able to produce biofuel at a higher rate. This invention allows the gas to be delivered to the algae in a more efficient and effective manner, thus enhancing photosynthesis.
Background
Energy demands continue to rise, and the cost and difficulty of extracting fossil fuels and an increased policy push have created a need for alternative energy sources. Biofuels have been studied for decades, but a lack of efficiency and economic factors have hampered them, as well as a lack of feasible starting material. An efficient, non-food-based biofuel is critical to develop a sustainable and renewable energy source, and algal cultures have been studied to fit this need.
Overview
This technology details a photobioreacter that features an enhanced delivery system and method for a more effective way to deliver gas into algal culture tanks. This method uses a tube with drilled holes in the bottom of the tank to deliver the gas, which includes a mixing device and control system. This technology also has a method to capture exhaust gases, that then can be recycled in to the system, which may perform carbon capture, further reduction operational costs and lead to enhanced, sustainable biofuel production.
Benefits
- Increased rate of photosynthesis in algal cultures
- More controlled algal culture growth than current methods
- Increased mixing of algal culture
- Enhanced efficiency and sustainability of biofuel production
- Potential carbon capture to recycle carbon dioxide from the process
Applications
- Biofuel production
- Efficient algal culture
Publications
Last updated: December 2022
