Geosynthetics and Algae Biofuels
Researchers are studying the possibility of the use of geomembranes in algae cultivation for biofuels. Geomembranes, which are commonly used as canal and pond liners, could be of great use in algae production at landfills. Landfill by-products such as leachate could be used in the production of algae biofuels.
Geosynthetics can provide dependable, well-tested containment and separation solutions, and these materials can be used well-beyond algae farm production optimization. Separation of solids, for example, can be a boon to bioenergy production at many wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) facilities. Dried sludge from biosolids can generate 6,000 Btus of energy. If separated out, WWTP biosolids involve many other energy-producing elements: grit, 4,000 Btus; screenings, 9,000 Btus; grease, 16,000 Btus (which is more than gasoline).
http://www.geosynthetica.net/news/article/2011/Algae_BioenergyGeosynthetics_042611.aspx