Integrated Macro-Algae (Seaweed) to Ethanol Processes

[mrabercrombie]

I am currently working on a thesis project at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, looking at developing processes for utilising seaweed, particularly asco and laminaria in the production of ethanol, fertiliser and also bio-plastics.

The only estimate that I've been able to find so far for the volume of ethanol that can be produced per ton of dried seaweed is approx 34 litres. I was wondering if anyone else had read or discovered differing maximums?

Obviously the produceable volume greatly impacts upon the economic viability of any future endeavour.

SA

[dawnsp]

Valcent Vertigro Systems would have the greatest potential for volume to research. Their testing food now commercially at a zoo in England and feeding all animals and their very aware of algae potential to fuel process. They definitely tested the algae and the best species to grow for the best output. Their basic idea is skyscrapers everywhere from the desert to the middle of the cities filled with veggies and oilgae:)