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Power Plant Flue gas to biofuel

Discussion in 'Environmental Discussion' started by tripp, Dec 1, 2006.

  1. tripp

    tripp Which it's a 'ybrid, ain't it?

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    This is an interesting bit. I've heard some buzz about this but this seems to be more than just theoretical. It is just a press release though, so details are lacking.

    Enjoy!

    Algae to Biofuel
     
    #1 tripp, Dec 1, 2006
  2. MegansPrius

    MegansPrius GoogleMeister, AKA bongokitty

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    It that really works it sounds great. Though I guess you'd have to classify that algae as [brace yourself]

    ....a power plant.
     
    #2 MegansPrius, Dec 1, 2006
  3. SSimon

    SSimon Active Member

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    This sounds great in theory but questions arise in my mind. The algae multiply hourly at a seemingly fast rate. If they aren't able to utilize all of the reproduced algae in the sequestering process (I have to admit I'm scared of the algae as it sounds kinda like the Tribbles on Star Trek), are they going to have to destroy this algae. If they destroy the algae, how much CO2 will the algae release back into the atmosphere? Also, how much energy is used to pump the CO2 that's being expelled from the power plant to these holding cells?
     
    #3 SSimon, Dec 1, 2006
  4. hobbit

    hobbit Senior Member

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    They've got a test installation on top of MIT's cogen plant. It
    processes about 1% of the stack output at the moment; many acres
    would be needed to handle all of it. Interesting idea, I'll wait
    and see on large-scale implementation.
    .
    _H*
     
    #4 hobbit, Dec 1, 2006
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