GF Piping Systems wins international award for environmentally friendly algae bioreactors in special pipes

The award recognizes GF Piping Systems’ achievement in implementing polyvinylchloride (PVC) pipes efficiently and creatively for the common good. The prize money of 50,000 euros will be invested in further development of the product.

Plastics, such as PVC, change under constant exposure to sunlight. Engineers at Georg Fischer have succeeded in finding an ideal balance between transparency and durability. They have developed a piping system made of translucent PVC, which allows enough light in the right wavelength to pass through into the pipe interior, where microalgae can grow.

The first trials to cultivate algae in this type of bioreactor are underway. Algae can be processed to obtain biomass and biofuel. In addition, these organisms bind carbon dioxide (CO2), which is required for their growth. By supplying CO2 to the algae bioreactors, for example from a power plant, CO2 emissions can be reduced.

Georg Fischer – Adding Quality to People`s Lives
GF Piping Systems is one of the three core businesses of the Georg Fischer Corporation and a leading supplier of piping systems in plastic and metal with global market presence. Connecting technology, fittings, valves, measuring devices and pipes are used for water conveyance and treatment as well as the transport of liquids and gases for industrial purposes. GF Piping Systems provides innovative, engineered solutions for the segments building technology, chemical process industry, food & beverage, microelectronics, ship building, water and gas utilities and water treatment. Sales companies in more than 25 countries and representatives in another 80 countries ensure customer support 24 hours a day. Production sites in Europe, Asia and the US are near the customers and meet local requirements. The Georg Fischer headquarters is based since its foundation in 1802 in Schaffhausen, Switzerland.

Key figures GF Piping Systems 2009
More than 4200 employees worldwide
1066 MCHF sales
80 MCHF EBIT

Further information is available at www.piping.georgfischer.com