[Bioconversion] The Pond Scum Fireball

[andrew]

On Monday 26 December 2005 06:35, Jeff Davis wrote:

> > > Algae, having binder qualities hence no binder would have to be added
> >
> > I like this, how much better to add such algae to a biomass pellet and
> > not need the high pressures.
>
> I would not have to buy starch.

Yes, starch will be a big added cost to char briquettes. I was told that the 
cost of binder for charcoal briquettes was comparable with the cost of 
electricity used in a pellet press.

>
> In algae ponds that raise food they buy electric and have under-water
> lighting (well some do). I'm sure your right about it being lousy but If
> you had excess wind power it would be an option.

Food tends to have a value far in excess of its energy value, hence we can 
afford to dump a lot of energy expensive inputs (fertiliser, transport, 
distribution) into its supply chain.

I would suggest your fireballs are a primary energy source, possibly capable 
of providing electricity. In such a situation that there are used to make 
electricity, through an engine, then the wind derived electricity will have 
too high a premium to use it for lighting an algal pond.

AJH