Algae Harvesting to Become Cheaper and Easier Soon
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed a technology based on microbubbles, to improve the way of algae cultivation, which eventually will make the algae harvesting cheaper and easier. Professor Will Zimmerman and his team have devised an inexpensive way of producing microbubbles that can float algae particles to the surface of the water.
According to the team, the technology uses 1000 times less energy to produce the microbubbles, and the cost of installing the systems is also relatively cheaper than the conventional flotation systems. They also claim that their technology will not only provide a cost-effective solution for harvesting, but also save time and money of the algae biofuel companies.
They also plan to develop a pilot plant to test the system on an industrial scale. Professor Zimmerman is already working with Tata Steel at its Scunthorpe site, using CO2 from the flue-gas stacks, and plans to continue this partnership to trial the technology.
