NREL Scientists Revive Algae from Cryogenic Storage

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory has developed a technique to cryogenically store and resurrect algae.

The frozen algae samples are stored in vials in the dark inside a cryogenic tank set at -195 C°. The algae were alive, but dormant, due to a solution of a cryogenic protectant solvent. When reviving the algae, it is essential to keep them in the dark for the first steps of the process. Researchers then slowly replicate the specific algae's natural environment. The samples are then put in a shaker to mix well with the growth medium and placed in a subdued lighting environment for 24 hours.

NREL researchers have also shown that algae grown under the right conditions can produce lipids, proteins and carbohydrates which can be turned into biofuels.