The deal gives Solix access to use and expand upon Los Alamos’ patented acoustic technology that utilizes sound waves to concentrate the harvested algae mixture and to extract the oil from algae cells.

Combining these processes greatly reduces the energy required to extract algal oil and eliminates the need for chemical solvents, according to Solix executives.

“We will be able to apply and expand upon Los Alamos’ valuable research in our effort to develop energy efficient extraction processes of algal oil, which is the next key step in bringing to market a commercially viable alternative to petroleum based fuels," says Bryan Willson, chief technology officer at Solix.

Solix