The first three sub-processes are performed at an aquatic farm
using agricultural engineering principles. Conversion of algal oil to
biodiesel is generally accomplished in a chemical plant using
a simple process to reduce the size and viscosity of the algal oil
molecular compounds. For the purpose of this analysis, an integrated
algae farm and biodiesel conversion plant operation will be
jointly analyzed. The next section discusses the economics of the
growth, harvest and extraction stages; and the subsequent section
will discuss the economics of the conversion stage; which together