Energy from microalgae
2nd Quarter 2015
Other technologies
NMMU’s Institute of Chemical Technology, InnoVenton, has developed innovative algae technology that could turn millions of tons of waste coal dust into high quality clean coal. This project has huge potential for the production of export quality coal as well as biofuel products.
“If you mix coal dust and algae biomass, the algae collects onto the surface of the coal and binds the dust together,” said InnoVenton’s Professor Ben Zeelie. The result is a coal-algae composite which we call Coalgae. This may be used as a substitute for coal in various processes, or may be further processed to a biofossil crude oil blend or synthetic gas. These could be converted into a variety of fuels, including gasoline, diesel, kerosene, aviation fuel and heavy fuel oil.
Carbon sequestration, the upgrading of low quality coal and the production of clean water are among the spin-off advantages of the production of Coalgae.
Consulting engineering firm, Hatch-Goba recently completed a basic engineering study on the technology at a 1 hectare scale. This will allow demonstration of the technology to interested investors. This includes the cultivation of microalgae in the photo-bioreactor system developed by NMMU, the use of coal-generated flue gas to meet the microalgae’s need for carbon dioxide, the harvesting of the microalgae and the production of the coal-microalgae composites.
In February 2015, the technology won the award for the ‘innovation most likely to impact public procurement’ at the Innovation Bridge Technology Match-making event held in Pretoria. There are five separate patent applications associated with the technology and commercialisation discussions are underway with various partners.
For more information contact Wilma Maritz, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, +27 (0)41 504 4309, [email protected], www.techtransfer.nmmu.ac.za
Further reading:
Monitoring vibration allows for equipment longevity
Iritron
Other technologies
Unscheduled downtime and maintenance on machines is often a source of frustration for many companies active in industrial manufacturing as it results in loss of process and productivity, which in turn equates to loss of revenue.
Read more...
Building resilience in extreme environments
Other technologies
The petrochemical and oil and gas sectors operate in unforgiving environments. In this high-stakes industry, operational efficiency is vital, and unplanned downtime can have severe consequences. To thrive in this demanding landscape, a proactive and sophisticated approach to maintenance is no longer an option, but a necessity.
Read more...
Extending oil drain intervals
Other technologies
In a recent field study, African Group Lubricants tested the performance of Mobil Delvac Modern MX 15W-40 Super Defense engine oil under rigorous operational conditions. The goal was to extend the oil drain interval while maintaining optimal engine performance and reliability.
Read more...
Electric chain hoist where advanced features are standard
Other technologies
Konecranes has launched the new Konecranes D-Series electric chain hoist, designed to meet the demands of industries that require high-performance lifting equipment.
Read more...
Latest advance in automotive cooling fluids
Other technologies
The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by advancements in vehicle design and increasing demands for enhanced performance and durability. These changes are bringing a marked shift toward formulations that offer improved heat dissipation and robust corrosion resistance.
Read more...
Advancements in wire rope testing
Other technologies
Being able to get instant, real-time and portable detection of wire rope flaws can make a significant difference for operational teams. There have been a number of significant technological advancements and tools entering the market that help wire rope operators detect and resolve problems faster.
Read more...
Complete solutions for the die casting industry
Other technologies
Die casting is a manufacturing process that involves injecting molten metal into a mould to produce complex, high-precision components. FUCHS Lubricants South Africa addresses the evolving demands of the die casting sector through continuous product innovation and development.
Read more...
Regular maintenance of cutting fluids is essential to maintain quality
Other technologies
Regular cleaning and maintenance of cutting fluid systems significantly enhances overall efficiency by extending the life of the cutting fluids, reducing downtime and improving the quality of the end products.
Read more...
Rethinking common approaches to wire rope lubrication
Other technologies
: Wire ropes are hard-working components in many different applications, from mines to lifts, ports, construction sites and drainage systems. Correct lubrication of wire ropes is absolutely critical because wire ropes are more than just cables, they are intricate machines composed of interdependent parts in constant motion.
Read more...
Quantum refrigerator paves way for reliable quantum computers
Other technologies
Quantum computers require extreme cooling to perform reliable calculations. Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, and the University of Maryland, USA, have engineered a new type of refrigerator that can autonomously cool superconducting qubits to record low temperatures, paving the way for more reliable quantum computation.
Read more...
printer friendly version