The algae that grows in stagnant water may hold a solution to the energy crisis.
Interest in the extraction of oil from algae has increased in the last few years, as people and governments seek out biofuels in order to decrease their dependence on non-renewable sources of energy such as oil, coal and natural gas. Algae is one of many natural organisms that can produce oil for human and animal consumption as well as for use as a biofuel. You need an oil press, distillery, filter and some inexpensive hexane solvent, along with time and effort, to extract this alternative energy source.
Instructions
1. Lay down plastic sheeting on the table and the floor beneath it, so that the oil dripping from the press doesn't create a slippery surface for you or the oil press. Position the oil press on the table with the exits for the oil and the algae extending over the floor. Leave one container for the oil underneath this arm of the press. Put a second, clean container under the algae exit because you'll reuse the crushed pulp later.
2. Drop dried algae chips in the worm shaft on top of the oil press. Turn on the press and feed more algae in as oil and algae pulp exit the machine. Remove and replace oil and pulp containers as needed. The oil is ready for storage as it exits. Temporarily store the algae pulp at room temperature until the initial extraction of oil is complete.
3. Put a breathing mask over your mouth and nose. The hexane used in the next steps is only mildly toxic, but inhalation can cause nausea and vertigo. It's also a skin and eye irritant.
4. Place all crushed algae pulp in one container. Add enough hexane solvent to saturate the pulp. This draws out any remaining oil in the pulp. Using hexane after pressing removes up to 95 percent of the total oil found in algae.
5. Set a container on the table. Pour the mixture slowly through a filter into this container. Discard the algae pulp caught in the filter.
6. Distill the remaining hexane and oil mixture. The separated oil can be stored with the oil removed from the algae during the pressing process.
