Enhancing algal biomass with floating photocatalytic tio2 balls
Innovative floating photocatalytic TiO2 balls boost algal biomass yield in open pond systems, offering a sustainable solution for biofuel production. The technology leverages hormetic effects to enhance growth and is at TRL 3, seeking R&D and funding partnerships.
Overview
Enhancing algal biomass through the use of floating photocatalytic titanium dioxide (TiO2) balls presents a promising solution for increasing biomass yield in open pond systems. This innovative approach leverages the hormetic effects of low-dose chemical stress, induced by the TiO2 coating on macroscopic plastic balls, to boost algal growth. The technology offers a sustainable and efficient method for biofuel production by increasing the yield of algae used in producing bio-Naphtha.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Floating photocatalytic balls are made from a TiO2 mixture coated on hollow plastic balls.
- Designed to optimize TiO2 loading, ball size, and buoyancy for maximum effectiveness.
- Proven to increase algal biomass yield in lab-scale experiments by applying hormetic principles.
- Suitable for use in open pond systems and scalable to larger pond experiments.
Applications:
- Enhanced biomass production for biofuel applications, particularly bio-Naphtha.
- Potential for use in various open pond systems to improve algal growth rates and lipid content.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at Technology Readiness Level 3. Initial lab-scale experiments have demonstrated the potential for increased algal biomass production. Future plans include scaling up to open pond systems and conducting comprehensive studies to optimize the design and economic feasibility of the technology.
About WaterPuris
WaterPuris Inc. is a Canadian company that develops water treatment solutions centered on Exobubble, a nanobubble process intensification technology. This system utilizes the properties of nanobubbles, such as neutral buoyancy and a small negative charge, to perform tasks including particle separation, advanced oxidation, and in-situ cleaning. The technology is designed to be compact and adaptable to existing infrastructure, aiming to enhance productivity by reducing chemical and energy costs. The company provides R&D services to tailor these nanobubble solutions for various industrial applications, including agriculture, aquaculture, food and beverage processing, mining, and oil and gas operations.
The company serves industrial and specialized clients looking to meet sustainability and ESG targets by enabling effective water reuse and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. WaterPuris has engaged with various innovation ecosystems, including the Velocity incubator, and has been recognized in competitions like the AquaHacking Finals and the FAMAE Water Challenge. Furthermore, the company continues to explore advanced applications for its technology, including a research project supported by the Canadian Space Agency focused on extracting and purifying water from lunar regolith using multi-stage distillation systems.
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