GenV Campaigns

VENTURE: Algae Panel

Posted on 07. May, 2009 by Charles Tsai in E-Ventures, Environment, I-Ventures, Inventions

Erica Lawson, 17, USA - In 2010, stricter regulations will be applied to the trucking industry, requiring lower emissions of nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons. Several truck manufacturers have proposed adding a tank of urea to each truck to control emissions, but there are many downsides to this technology, such as high cost, added weight, and consumption of urea.

Now, picture this: Trucks releasing cleaner emissions and making fuel as they drive. Our proposed solution involves the growth of algae, of which oil is extracted for biodiesel production. Each truck would have an “algae panel” attached to its top, comparable in size to a solar panel and filled with water and algae.

It would be connected to the trucks exhaust system, so the emissions would pass through the panel before entering the atmosphere.

The carbon dioxide emitted from the trucks helps the algae grow, while the algae filters out the nitrogen oxide and hydrocarbons. As the panel fills up with algae, systems would be set up at gas stations to drain out portions of the algae, leaving room for new growth. The biodiesel produced from the algae would be used to fuel the trucks.

Goals:

• Research algae types, trucking requirements and emission levels to determine design of system
• Test strains of algae for rate of growth, ability to feed off of CO2 and nitrous oxide emissions and oil content. Determine best strain to use.
• Construct a working prototype and test system. Make modifications.
• Apply for patent.

Here is a sample of algae that we have worked to grow.

Tags: Environment09, Invention09, USA