Growth of Algae in a Photobioreactor Using Solar Lighting
 
Large solar collectors on the roof track the sun, collect sunlight, and distribute it through large optical fibers to the bioreactor's growth chamber. Each growth chamber consists of a series of illumination sheets containing the optical fibers and moist cloth-like membranes on which the algae grow. By stacking the membranes vertically and better distributing the light, more algae can be produced via photosynthesis in a smaller area. Ohio University photobioreactors use sunlight to sequestor carbon from coal-fired power plans as they produce biomass. This system is expected to sequester carbon at a cost of $5-8 per ton surpassing the U.S. Department of Energy's goal of $10 per ton. It will also reduce the space required by a factor of 10 or more, when compared to raceway cultivators.

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