Ages ago the Negev desert region of Israel was entirely under a sea populated by animals, plants, algae an other micro-organisms. Gradually the receding sea exposed formations of sedimentary rocks among them the fossil rocks which are the source of the shale now quarried in this region for a demonstration oil shale combustion plant for steam and electric power generation. A porous stone residue with properties of considerable commercial value is the outcome of this combustion process. This residue is marketed under the name of Alganite® for use as cat litter, for absorption of oil spills and other liquids, for cement production and as bedding material.

Geological surveys have confirmed the existence of some 12 billion tons of oil shale reserves in the Negev, sufficient to meet Israel’s energy needs for approximately 80 years. Extensive laboratory research and operation of the 12 megawatt pilot power generation plant over the past 15 years have demonstrated the feasibility of electric power generation from the oil shale deposits. This plant now leaves an Alganite® residue of some 120,000 tons a year.

Economic and environmental benefits

Studies conducted by PAMA and the Israel Electric Corporation have demonstrated that the power produced from this fossil oil shale fuel is economically competitive with power generation from large scale coal-fired and oil-fired power plants. More over, power generation sources owing to its minimum pollution emission. The latter applies equally to Alganite® - an environment – friendly material in all its market applications.