A significant improvement in hydrogen gas production by green algal cultures

What is it about?

The research team at the University of Turku has found a way to improve the efficiency of hydrogen gas production by green algae. Green algae produce hydrogen gas through a process linked to photosynthesis, but this process is difficult to sustain because enzymes that produce hydrogen are sensitive to oxygen and compete with other processes in the cell. The researchers found that by exposing the algae to short bursts of strong light followed by longer periods of darkness, they could improve hydrogen production. However, this method was not sustainable for more than 24 hours because the hydrogen gas produced would build up in the bioreactor and interfere with the production process. The research team found that by periodically refreshing gases in the bioreactor and adding oxygen absorbents to remove excess oxygen, they could sustain hydrogen production for over 10 days and increase the amount of hydrogen produced by six times compared to the original method. This could be an important development in the search for sustainable and renewable energy sources.

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Photo by Hal Gatewood on Unsplash

Photo by Hal Gatewood on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Hydrogen gas has the potential to be a sustainable and renewable energy source that could replace fossil fuels. However, current methods for producing hydrogen gas are often expensive, energy-intensive, and not environmentally friendly. By finding ways to optimize the production of hydrogen gas using algae, which can produce hydrogen gas through the natural processes of photosynthesis, the production of hydrogen gas could be more sustainable and cost-effective. This could have a significant impact on the future of energy production and help reduce the world's reliance on fossil fuels.

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