Carbon Capture

Algae require direct sunlight to combine water with carbon dioxide (CO₂) to perform photosynthesis. In order to both maximize the amount of stored energy available in algae and increase the growth rate of algae, a large amount of CO₂ is required to be supplied to the growth system. Atmospheric levels of CO₂ are about 0.036%, however discharged gases from heavy industries comprise about 10-20% CO₂ by volume.

Total Projected CO₂ Emissions for Canada, 2010

Although CO₂ availability can be a limiting factor in algae production, there many sources of waste CO₂; all industries that utilize combustion of fossil fuels for energy are potential sources. Coal-fired and other types of power plants are our main focus for obtaining a supply of CO₂. Pond Biofuels system recycles the carbon emissions produced by industrial combustion processes and power plants, and provides an integrative approach to produce a combustable fuel that suits the existing infrastructural constraints and energy needs for the foreseeable future.