To move their algae biofuels project from a laboratory setting to an environment that better reflects real-world conditions for algae production, Exxon Mobil Corporation and Synthetic Genomics Inc. (SGI) opened a new greenhouse facility.
Researchers from both companies will examine different growth systems – such as open ponds and closed photobioreactors -, evaluate various algae – including both natural and engineered strains – in these different growth systems under a wide range of conditions – including varying temperatures, light levels and nutrient concentrations.
They will also conduct research into other aspects of the algae fuel production process, including harvesting and bio-oil recovery operations.
If research and development milestones are successfully met, ExxonMobil expects to spend more than $600 million on the algae biofuels program over the next decade, $300 million of which will be allocated to SGI.
(C) Photo: Business Wire
