Algae may be used as biodiesel and jet fuel

A common algae typically grown commercially to produce fish food has been discovered as a potential source for biodiesel and jet fuel. Researchers Greg O’Neil from Western Washington University and Chris Reddy of Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution found that fatty acids contained in the algae could be converted into fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs), which are the molecules in biodiesel. 

Tom Kleindinst/Woods Hale Oceanographic Institution

They believe that since it is possible to produce two fuels from this one type of algae, commercialization of this method is probable. O’Neil and Reddy have stated that this is only the first step of many, but that they are excited by this initial result.

Source: Science Daily