Question

Advantages and disadvantages of using algae as a source of biodiesel

Answer 1

One of the biggest advantages of biomass production from algae is its high energy content. As found by some studies, algae has the capability to produce over 30 times more energy per unit area than other 1st and 2nd generation biofuel crops. In fact, according to the US Department of Energy, it may be able to yield 100 times more oil per acre than soybeans or other terrestrial oil-producing crops. They also said that if algae biofuel replaces all the petroleum fuel in the country, it would require 40,000 square kilometers, which is less than 14% of the area of corn being harvested in 2000.