Method and apparatus for separating particles from a liquid

A method for separating algae from a mixture containing algae and water, comprising the steps of:

• providing a separation device including:
• a filter including an upper surface at least a portion of which is configured to receive said mixture, a lower surface, and pores extending between the upper and lower surfaces wherein the pores are of a size sufficient to allow water to pass while preventing at least some algae from passing through said filter;
• an absorbent layer including an upper surface and a lower surface, wherein at least a portion of said lower surface of the filter contacts at least a portion of the upper surface of the absorbent layer;
• at least one movement device for effecting relative movement between said filter and said absorbent layer;
• and
• a frame supporting said filter and said absorbent layer in a manner that allows the filter and absorbent layer to move relative to one another;
• placing a mixture containing algae and water onto said upper surface of said filter;
• allowing water to pass through said filter and be absorbed by said absorbent layer without the application of any external force to said mixture, thereby producing a concentrated algae on said upper surface of the filter;
• effecting relative movement between said filter and said absorbent layer;
• and
• collecting said concentrated algae from said upper surface of the filter.