Stephen W Irwin

US Patent:

20100170149, Jul 8, 2010

Filed:

Jul 14, 2009

Appl. No.:

12/502993

Inventors:

Christopher C. Keeler - Gilbert AZ, US
Jerry D. Stephenson - Queen Creek AZ, US
Steven W. Schenk - Chandler AZ, US
George Benjamin Cloud - Chandler AZ, US
Souren Naradikian - Phoenix AZ, US
Stephen W. Irwin - Avondale AZ, US

International Classification:

A01G 7/00

US Classification:

47 14

Abstract:

Algae production systems and associated methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, for example, an algae production system can include a plurality of elongated growth receptacles arranged in a desired configuration at a work site. The growth receptacles have a generally non-circular cross-sectional profile and are configured to hold an algae culture, and wherein the individual growth receptacles have a generally non-circular cross-sectional profile. The system can also include a carbon dioxide (CO) subsystem configured to supply provide CO-enriched air to the growth receptacles, a fresh medium subsystem configured to supply a fertility solution to the growth receptacles, and a harvesting subsystem.

US Patent:

20080311649, Dec 18, 2008

Filed:

Jun 2, 2008

Appl. No.:

12/156506

Inventors:

George Benjamin Cloud - Chandler AZ, US
Souren Naradikian - Phoenix AZ, US
Stephen Irwin - Avondale AZ, US

International Classification:

C12M 1/02
C12M 1/08
C12R 1/89

US Classification:

4352921

Abstract:

An apparatus for producing algae circulates algae fluid through flexible reactor tubing that is at least partially translucent to sunlight. The reactor tubing lies flat when not pressurized. Preferably, the reactor tubing is made of clear polyethylene with UV inhibitors, the polyethylene being between 6 and 15 mil thick. The reactor tubing preferably has a substantially circular cross-section with a 6 inch diameter and is preferably 1250 feet long. Gas relief valves allow gases generated during algae production to escape from the reactor tubing. COmay be injected into the algae fluid to stimulate photosynthesis. A circulation pump propels the algae fluid through the reactor tubing, keeping the reactor tubing pressurized and stationary without touching the reactor tubing, so that a rigid support structure is not needed. One or more layers of plastic mulch may be disposed above or below the reactor tubing to control temperature and sunlight exposure.