In the context of fluctuating oil prices and dwindling fuel reserves, a genetically modified type of algae is offering the promise of an environmentally friendly green energy source. Experts from Bielefeld University (Germany) and the University of Queensland (Australia) have successfully cultivated a strain of green algae, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, that produces hydrogen gas in large quantities, which can then be burned to generate energy.
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Green Algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii |
While fossil fuels such as petroleum, coal, and natural gas release carbon dioxide (CO2) when burned, this green fuel only emits water. Typically, one liter of algae produces only 100 ml of hydrogen, but genetically modified algae can generate five times that amount.
According to researchers, to commercially exploit this algae, energy efficiency needs to be increased from the current 1.6%-2% to 7-10%. In comparison, the highest natural algae efficiency is only 0.1%. The ultimate goal of the researchers is to create biofuel cells, wherein algae produce sufficient hydrogen that can be used immediately. This would mean that drivers would no longer need to rush to a gas station for refueling but could simply carry a device powered by algae. Meanwhile, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Germany) is developing a bioreactor that can contain approximately 500-1,000 liters of algae.
In the future, reactors capable of processing 1 million liters of algae could provide enough energy for 1,000 households.
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