The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), in the Eastern Cape, has developed and patented a new technology to blend microalgae with fine coal particles that could further the realisation of a biofuels industry.

Through this technology, coal fines are mixed with microalgae in an irreversible process that naturally excludes some of the mineral particles, delivering a cleaner coal-based product named Coalgae that could be delivered using existing petroleum or petrochemicals infrastructure, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) said in a statement.

“By 2015, the government intends all transport fuels to be a blend, with biofuels making up at least 2% of the blend.  Coalgae exceeds this target,” the DST added.

Through the technology’s ability to combine the two feedstocks, only one process was needed to deliver the product, as opposed to two, while the technology would also reduce the logistical challenges of accessing blended biofuels, as well as the capital investments required for the blending and distribution infrastructure.

DST deputy director-general for research, development and innovation Mmboneni Muofhe would on Monday officially announce the NMMU Microalgae to Energy project.