WSU researchers develop better, faster way to grow algae

In Washington state, Washington State University researchers have developed a way to grow algae more efficiently — in days instead of weeks — and make the algae more viable for several industries, including biofuels. Their work was reported in the journal Algal Research. The researchers developed a unique biofilm reactor that recycles gasses and uses less water and lower light than typical reactors.

The algae produced was full of the fats that make it suitable for biodiesel production and “fatter” than other biofilm reactors have produced. Because of a removable membrane, it was also easier to harvest than typical systems.