Biofuels from algae

Shannon Ewanick

CFR 521

April 29, 2008

Introduction

Background

Processes

Conclusion

Background

Uses for algaeNutrition

• Nori, dulse, kombu• Supplements – spirulina, chorella• DHA

CosmeticsFertilizerAquaculturePigments

Bioproducts

BiodieselAlgae biodiesel has superior cold-weather

properties Vegetable oil Bioethanol Butanol Methanol Hydrogen

Requirements

Light CO2

Water Inorganic nutrients

Vary depending on algaeNitrates, phosphates, iron, trace elements

Farming methods

Photosynthetic surface area

Surface area to volume ratio (SVR)Open (pond) system: 3-4 m2/m3

Closed system 70-100 m2/m3

3D matrix system 1500-2000 m2/m3

SurfacesPolycarbonate (best)AcrylicGlassPolymer film

Process

Algae biomass production

CO2

NutrientsBiomass recovery

Extraction

Water, nutrients

Oil

Biomass

Biodiesel

BioethanolAnimal feedBiogas

Algae species

Many different species can be used Different species for fresh or salt water

Scenedesmus dimorphus • High yield but needs constant agitation

Botryococcus braunii • Produces long chain hydrocarbons, up to 86% of weight• Thought be responsible for fossil fuel deposits

Chlorophyceae spp.• Produce starch granules

Productivity

NREL

Challenges

“High yield photoefficiency”As biomass increases light access is blockedUse small diameter tubes

High capital costs Contamination by invasive species Water must be maintained at constant temp. Not enough CO2 in atmosphere for exponential

growth

Disadvantages

Transfers CO2 – doesn’t eliminate it

Captured CO2 from coal plants is released by cars

Could slow progression towards alternative energy sources which might reduce CO2 levels

High water usage Nutrient sourcing

Production

PetroSun: Rio Hondo, Texas 1100 acres of saltwater ponds 4.4 million gallons oil/year 110 million pounds biomass/year

Solix 0.4 acre pilot plant using CO2 from brewery Flexible plastic reactors – 50x300 ft Predict 8000 gal/acre/year

Players

Greenfuel Technologies Corp. PetroSun Solix Algaelink Solazyme Valcent

Conclusions

Cost of “alg-oil” becoming more reasonable as oil prices rise

Best constructed in tandem with a CO2 producer

Promising “piece of the puzzle” for future transportation fuels

Questions?