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How to Extract Oil From Algae by Application

Because of the importance of finding a steady long-term supply of fuel for vehicles, research has branched into a number of different areas that people might not normally associate with fossil fuels. Algae is one of these, and there are many companies seeking to bring the process of extracting oil from algae to the point of profitability on a large scale. While the process involves considerable industrial machinery to achieve up to 100 percent efficiency, it is possible to do this at home as an experimental application and get up to 75 percent biodiesel ready for the refinement process.

Things You'll Need

Olive press
Algae
Drying rack
Plastic tarp
Bucket
Table

Instructions

- 1
  Set the algae out on a drying rack. This will work best outside on a sunny day, but you can also use a dry, indoor location such as a basement or garage. You'll want to put down plastic underneath the drying racks to catch the drips.
- 2
  Place the algae into the olive press. The capacity and procedure will vary depending on the manufacturer and the size of the press, so consult the instruction manual before deciding how much to insert at one time.
- 3
  Place a bucket beneath the discharge opening on the press. Operate the press according to the instruction manual. Many presses work when you turn a wheel, squeezing the algae and sending the distillate out the bottom. Keep working the press until that portion of your algae is no longer producing any liquid. Then add the next batch.

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