Microalgae-derived biofuel production from mine waters

摘要

Mine water, especially from deep underground operations, is often consistently at or above 20 Celcius. These geothermally-generated temperatures are potentially ideal for the growth of microalgae. Microalgae species are reported as being highly productive sources of biodiesel with possible additional growth nutrients available in mine waters. This paper describes research aimed at achieving both carbon credit generation via sequestration and biofuel production in northern climates. The long term goal is to provide resource-based communities with energy resilience and jobs during mine production and beyond mine closure. Innovative mine design and/or operation might be necessary to optimize such technologies.