The Cambridge exhibit – Meet the Algae, to Explore Algae Biodiesel
Part of the Cambridge team – which includes plant scientists, biochemists, mathematicians, and chemical engineers – is developing a biophotovoltaic device to produce green electricity by tapping into the ability of algae to harness solar energy.
This is the first time that whole cells of algae have been used to power an electrical device. Although the technology is at least 5-10 years away from market the team has already succeeded in hooking up thin films of algae to power an electronic clock.
The Cambridge exhibit – Meet the Algae – features other ways in which algae could be exploited, including for production of biodiesel and high-value products such as vitamins. Algae – often thought of as just pond slime – are a fantastically diverse group of photosynthetic organisms. They can be found everywhere – from glaciers, to hot springs and moist soil, to the open ocean. The exhibit will provide hands-on demonstrations illustrating the role of algae in natural ecosystems, their extraordinary beauty and diversity, and aspects of their movement and how they harvest sunlight.
