Algae from Clogged Waterways could serve as Biofuel Feedstock

Water-borne algal blooms from farm fertilizer runoff can destroy aquatic life and clog rivers. However, scientists are now working on a way to clean up these algal blooms and turn them into feedstock for biofuels through a nutrient bio-remediation system.

Currently, the research team is exploring different substrates to optimize algae growth in water bodies. They are testing these first in the laboratory before analyzing them out in the field. They are also investigating different options for collection techniques.

John B. Miller, a research lead for the study, points out that the algae can be used for biofuel feedstock, making a profit for the farmers. Meanwhile, the waste left over after the biofuel's fermentation and distillation steps is high in nutrients and carbohydrates, which can be recycled back to farm fields as organic fertilizer.

Miller acknowledges funding from the Department of Energy, the Smithsonian Institution, Western Michigan University and StatoilHydro.