Algae Carbon Capture: Make Your Own Algae Tank & Absorb CO2

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    Algae Capture Carbon
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the potential of algae for carbon capture and biofuel production, exploring the feasibility of creating personal algae tanks for these purposes. Participants express concerns about climate change and debate the effectiveness of algae as a solution, as well as the practicality of individual efforts versus larger-scale initiatives.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express deep concern about climate change and question whether algae carbon capture could be a viable solution.
  • One participant suggests that individual efforts with algae may not significantly impact carbon footprints and recommends planting trees instead.
  • Another participant shares their experience in starting a company focused on algae fuel production, highlighting the challenges of scale and profitability in the industry.
  • A participant describes a visit to an algae aquaculture facility, noting the design and operational aspects of algae cultivation, and questions the overall impact on global CO2 levels.
  • There is a discussion about the economic feasibility of algae fuel compared to other products like Spirulina, emphasizing the vast difference in market prices.
  • Some participants mention the potential for genetic engineering of algae to enhance production benefits.
  • Concerns are raised about the carbon balance if algae-derived fuel is burned, questioning whether it contributes positively to climate change mitigation.
  • Participants discuss the logistics of harvesting algae from ocean blooms and the challenges associated with such methods compared to land-based systems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views, with no clear consensus on the effectiveness of algae for carbon capture or biofuel production. Some believe in its potential, while others are skeptical about its impact and practicality.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight various assumptions regarding the economic viability of algae production, the scale required for meaningful impact, and the complexities of carbon balance in relation to fuel production.

  • #91
Rive said:
My first electronics 'project' ended up as a big wiry mess o0)
And some kids ended up burning down the house. ;)
 
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  • #92
Well, I'm happy that this project is ... wet. Compared to some locked ones, it's so safe :smile:
 
  • #93
CCatalyst said:
Summary:: I want to save the planet.

So I want to make my own algae tank and use it to absorb carbon dioxide. Any advise and suggestions? And how do I get started?
The best way to get started is to do some reading on the subject. One source is the Biofuel Technology Handbook: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/228735855_Biofuel_technology_handbook. It looks like a good source. I downloaded it several years ago, got as far as page 50, and lost interest in biofuels based on what I read in the book.

Another source that looks good is Sustainable Development of Algal Biofuels in the United States: https://www.nap.edu/catalog/13437/sustainable-development-of-algal-biofuels-in-the-united-states. They have a free download that requires an email. I was able to get a copy by using a fake email address.
 
  • #94
jrmichler said:
The best way to get started is to do some reading on the subject. One source is the Biofuel Technology Handbook: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/228735855_Biofuel_technology_handbook. It looks like a good source. I downloaded it several years ago, got as far as page 50, and lost interest in biofuels based on what I read in the book.

Another source that looks good is Sustainable Development of Algal Biofuels in the United States: https://www.nap.edu/catalog/13437/sustainable-development-of-algal-biofuels-in-the-united-states. They have a free download that requires an email. I was able to get a copy by using a fake email address.
Are you implicitly suggesting the OP should grow algae in a tank to absorb CO2? Do you think this has value?
 

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