This project roots back to 2007 when the idea of utilising tidal currents in particular in the same way as standardised wind turbines are used. Tidal current energy conversion concepts are often tailored to a particular location – making it particular for the specific occurring local conditions. The wind turbine on the other hand have reached an off the shelf level making wind generated power increasingly more cost efficient.

Large offshore wind-farms currently being developed suffer from comprehensive costs associated with both construction, site commissioning and operational costs. The large difference in density between air and water provide an opportunity to significantly reduce the size of the current turbine and still remain at the same potential power output level – opening for reduced overall costs.

The project, which is a joint venture between Menatech Ltd. and Mentum AS, have developed prototypes and carried out small-scale test. A development phase is now being planned and the project is currently seeking funds to materialise the development.

Mentum has developed an innovative electrolysis membrane cell introducing new materials allowing alternative assembly methods improving performance, cost-efficiency as well as operational window.

© 2011 – Mentum AS

The starting-point for the development was to enable the cell to use seawater as an electrolyte without any form of pre-treatment. The main challenge related to this is the presence of Magnesium in seawater taking part in the electrochemical reactions and forming a substrate of the mineral form of Magnesium Hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂) or Brucite as it often is referred to. This tends to clog conventional membrane cells. The new development reduces the impact of Brucite – consequently the cell can operate continuously using raw seawater as feed. It can off course also use brine as electrolyte.

The development has generated 4 patent applications. If you want to learn more, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Thermo-Service specializes in engineering, construction, consulting, installation and supervision of cargo hold insulation and other installation works on refrigerated cargo vessels (reefers). The activities came to an halt in 2004 due to international recline in the building of reefers. In 2010 this market is now returning to life to serve and an increasing demand for the services Thermo-Service once provided arrives. Visit Thermo-Service.

NOFO, the North Sea oil spill contingency Organisation provides funding for Mentum in the development of applied Non-Chemical Oil Dispersion concept.

Photo: NOFO.

Mentum is developing a strategy for the dispersion of oil-in-water debris following oil spill combat operations. An initial phase was undertaken in 2006 suggesting a certain potential in effectively dispersing oil-in-water without the use of chemicals. The results also suggested a reduction of the presence of hydrocarbons following treatment. The technology has since been refined and efficiency improved. NOFO is now co-funding a second phase addressing the dispersion application in particular. Tests are planned for March and April.

On January 11^th. 2010, we moved offices from Lysaker to Bergehus, Oslo.

Bergehus was the headquarters of the shipowner Bergersen for many years. The building was built in 1895 and designed by the architect Herman Backer. In the 1930’s the building was upgraded and rebuilt under the leadership of architect Arnstein Arneberg. The building was aquired by Bergesen in 1954 and served as their headquarters until the company was sold in 2003. Since then, Bergehus has been the headquarters of BW Gas.

For further information, look at our contact details.