Algal biorefinery in operation
In New Mexico the Center of Excellence for Hazardous Materials Management (CEHMM) opened what it claims to be the world's first vertically integrated algal biorefinery.
The refinery uses saltwater micro-algae grown in ponds that are high in oil, which is then extracted and used for biodiesel production. The remaining algae material can also be used as a livestock feed.
Experts hope a commercially developed version could one day replace the need on foreign oil.
Doug Lynn, executive director for the Center of Excellence for Hazardous Materials Management (CEHMM), says the project will not replace New Mexico's robust oil and gas industry, but rather, work with the industry to further develop domestically produced fuels.
The refinery uses saltwater micro-algae grown in ponds that are high in oil, which is then extracted and used for biodiesel production. The remaining algae material can also be used as a livestock feed.
Experts hope a commercially developed version could one day replace the need on foreign oil.
Doug Lynn, executive director for the Center of Excellence for Hazardous Materials Management (CEHMM), says the project will not replace New Mexico's robust oil and gas industry, but rather, work with the industry to further develop domestically produced fuels.
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