OriginOil’s patent-pending technology, Quantum Fracturing, is based on the science of mass transfer and fluid fracturing and addresses some of  the challenges of industrializing algae oil production.

Distribution of micro-bubbles enhances contact interface for optimal absorption by algae cell.

A quantum is the smallest quantity of some physical property that a system can possess. We use the term to illustrate how we fracture the nutrient delivery environment into very small parts, down to a micron, or a millionth of a meter. Using Quantum Fracturing, water, carbon dioxide and other nutrients are fractured at very high pressure to create a slurry of micron-sized nutrition-bubbles, which is then channeled to the algae culture awaiting it in a lower-pressure growth vessel, the Helix BioReactor™.

This process achieves total and instantaneous distribution of nutrients to the algae culture without fluid disruption or aeration. The pressure differentials between the two zones substantially increase contact and exchange between the micronized nutrients and the algae culture.

Ultimate Oil Production Efficiency

The increased contact between culture and nutrients makes for very high absorption of CO2 and nutrients in the growth phase and most importantly, by increasing the CO2 absorption during this phase, the algae cell will produce a much greater volume of hydrocarbons (oil).

Two Stages of Algae Production

OriginOil’s patent-pending algae oil production system employs Quantum Fracturing in two major stages of algae production.

Growth Stage: CO2 and nutrients are fractured into a micro-bubble slurry and injected directly into the algae culture for complete contact and nutrient absorption.

Extraction Stage: Water and special catalysts are fractured at high ultrasonic intensity, using very little energy, to crack the algae membrane to facilitate extracting its oil content.

Quantum Fracturing technology greatly enhances the efficiency of algae production and makes it cost-effective and viable.

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