Some environmentalists and thinkers have eyed algal biofuel production as a process that is unsafe for freshwater sources to some extent. Now, to satisfy them, NASA suggests growing algae in sewage-filled plastic containers. Dubbed as the OMEGA (membrane enclosures for growing algae), the innovative approach embeds itself in a marine environment since it utilizes the bordering water for structural support and temperature regulation. In addition, the surface waves provide the energy for mixing the algae culture.
OMEGA bags are semi-porous and hence, they allow freshwater to sneak through. At the same time, it prevents saltwater from entering into the algal solution. Therefore, the unique method will not only treat wastewater, but will also help provide other potential products, such as fertilizer, animal food, and nutriceuticals. The viable system for producing biofuels from algae won’t go up against agriculture for water or land either.
that’s duckweed (prob. Lemna minor), not algae!
1. How often do the bags need to be replaced? Must be expensive if they are reverse osmosis membranes
2. What happens to the local ecosystem if/when they tear?
3. Why not grow algae at the waste water treatment plant?
