Upload
others
View
0
Download
0
Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
Project Report – VIII Semester (2016-17)
‘Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy’
A Project dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Award of degree of
BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING in
Biotechnology
of
Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi
Submitted by
PAVITHRA V G 1NH13BT034
MADHU CHANDRA R 1NH13BT027
MOHANA PRIYA N 1NH13BT031
June 2016-17
Under the guidance of
Mr. Girish N Desai
Assistant Professor (2),
Department of Biotechnology
To
New Horizon College of Engineering
Department of Biotechnology
DEPARTMENT OF BIOTECHNOLOGY
CERTIFICATE
Certified that the project work entitled “Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters
for the removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy” has been carried out by Ms. PAVITHRA V G,
Mr. MADHU CHANDRA R, Ms. MOHANA PRIYA N respectively bearing USN 1NH13BT034,
1NH13BT027, 1NH13BT031, bonafide students of New Horizon College of Engineering in partial
fulfillment for the award of BE in Biotechnology of the Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi
during the year 2016-17. It is certified that all suggestions indicated for internal assessment have been
incorporated in the report that is deposited in the departmental library. The project report has been
approved for the said degree.
Signature of the Guide Signature of the HOD Signature of the Principal
External Viva
Name of the Examiners Signature with date
1.
2.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Firstly we would like to express our sincere thanks to The Chairman Dr. Mohan Manghnani of New Horizon
College of Engineering for permitting us to carry out the project work in the college. Furthermore, we would like
to extend a special note of thanks to Dr. Manjunatha, Principal New Horizon College of Engineering, who
continuously encouraged us in our entire course of engineering.
We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Prathima Khandelwal, Head of the Department, Department
of Biotechnology, whose support and encouragement were truly inspiring for completing this project successfully
and efficiently.
We would like to express our deep sense of gratitude to our project guide Mr. Girish N Desai Asst. Prof II,
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE for his valuable guidance and advice. He not only inspired us to work on
this project but convinced us to push further. His motivation and persistence on perfection has made our project
what it is.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all the other teaching faculty, lab instructor and lab assistant for
their assistance during the course of project work.
We would like to express our gratitude to Mr. Rajeevan N, Manager of Wellinsen Nutraceuticals for providing
us spirulina which helped us to start our project.
We would like to sincerely thank Hemanth O, Nithin Sadeesh, Manoj R, Meghana A Reddy, Abhishek I P,
Chethan G N for helping us throughout the project.
Finally, an honorable mention goes to our families and friends for their understanding and supporting us for
completing the project.
(PAVITHRA V G, 1NH13BT034)
(MADHU CHANDRA R, 1NH13BT027)
(MOHANA PRIYA N, 1NH13BT031)
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
ABSTRACT
Air pollution is caused when harmful substances are introduced into the earth’s atmosphere. It may
also cause harm to other living organisms such as animals and food crops and may also damage
the natural or built environment. Human activity and natural processes can both generate air
pollution. Here a biological method is being used to remove the pollutants present in the air. Algae
such as spirulina which is capable of reducing the carbon-di-oxide (CO2), nitrogen oxide (NOX)
and sulfur oxide (SOX) in the polluted air and generating oxygen. The equipment comprises of the
culture tank filled with the culture fluid including algae and air supply unit. By radiating the light
throughout the equipment using sunlight during the morning and fluorescent lamps during night
in the presence of carbon-di-oxide (CO2) photosynthesis will occur, where the conversion of the
carbon di oxide occurs which results in the oxygen production. In addition to it algae utilizes
nitrogen oxide (NOX) and sulfur oxide (SOX) as nutrients during the photosynthesis. As a result
the polluted air which is passed through the equipment generates the purified air, which has high
concentration of oxygen.
KEYWORDS:
Air pollution, spirulina, photosynthesis, oxygen
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE NO.
ABSTRACT IV
1. INTRODUCTION 1 - 8
2. REVIEW OF LITERATURE 9 - 17
2.1 REVIEW TABLE 14 - 16
2.2 LACUNAE 17
2.3 OBJECTIVES 17
3. MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY 18 - 24
4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS 25 - 37
5. CONCLUSION 38
6. BIBLIOGRAPHY 39 - 40
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE NUMBER CONTENT PAGE NUMBER
3.1
Constituents of culture
medium
18
4.1
Optical density of
NOx and SOx
27
4.2
Optical density of NOx
30
4.3
Optical density of SOx
33
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE NUMBER CONTENT PAGE NUMBER
1.1 Current status 5
1.2 Percentage of pollutants 6
3.1 Design of air pollution
reduction equipment
21
4.1 Subculturing of spirulina 25
4.2 Preliminary analysis 26
4.3 Equipment design 28
4.4 Standard curve of NOx 29
4.5 Concentration of NOx 31
4.6 Standard curve of SOx 32
4.7 Concentration of SOx 34
4.8 Spirulina growth curve 35
4.9 Growth curve 36
4.10 (a) NOx analysis 37
4.10(b) SOx analysis 37
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
LIST OF ABBREVIATION
CO2
Carbon di oxide
NOX
Nitrogen oxide
SOX
Sulfur oxide
CO
Carbon monoxide
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 1
CHAPTER – 1
INTRODUCTION
Air pollution occurs when harmful substances are introduced into the earth’s atmosphere. It may
cause diseases, allergies or death in humans. It may also cause harm to other living organisms such
as animals and food crops and may also damage the natural or built environment. Human activity
and natural processes can both generate air pollution.
At the global level, the rapid growth in motor vehicle activity has serious energy security and
climate change implications. The transport sector already consumes nearly half of the world’s oil.
But in urban areas – both developing and developed countries, it is predominately mobile or
vehicular pollution that contributes to air quality problem.
The sources of pollutants includes emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels in motor vehicles
and for industrial processes, energy production, domestic cooking and heating, and high dust levels
due to local construction, smoking, unpaved roads, sweeping, hotels, restaurants and long-range
transport. By this the quality of air has become so poor that, Bangalore is the result of both high
emissions from the vehicles and unfavorable conditions.
(Mahadevvappa Harish 2012)
Effects of air pollution.
Health Effects:
Air pollution can harm us when it accumulates in the air in high enough concentrations. Millions
of Americans live in areas where urban smog, particle pollution, and toxic pollutants pose serious
health concerns. People exposed to high enough levels of certain air pollutants may experience:
Irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat
Wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and breathing difficulties
Worsening of existing lung and heart problems, such as asthma
Increased risk of heart attack
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 2
Environmental effects:
Acid rain is precipitation containing harmful amounts of nitric and sulfuric acids. These acids are
formed primarily by nitrogen oxides and sulfur oxides released into the atmosphere when fossil
fuels are burned. In the environment, acid rain damages trees and causes soils and water bodies to
acidify, making the water unsuitable for some fish and other wildlife.
Eutrophication is a condition in a water body where high concentrations of nutrients (such as
nitrogen) stimulate blooms of algae, which in turn can cause fish kills and loss of plant and animal
diversity.
Haze is caused when sunlight encounters tiny pollution particles in the air. Haze obscures the
clarity, color, texture, and form of what we see. Some haze-causing pollutants (mostly fine
particles) are directly emitted to the atmosphere by sources such as power plants, industrial
facilities, trucks and automobiles, and construction activities.
Effects on wildlife. Toxic pollutants in the air, or deposited on soils or surface waters, can impact
wildlife in a number of ways. Like humans, animals can experience health problems if they are
exposed to sufficient concentrations of air toxics over time. Studies show that air toxics are
contributing to birth defects, reproductive failure, and disease in animals.
Ozone depletion. Ozone is a gas that occurs both at ground-level and in the Earth's upper
atmosphere, known as the stratosphere. At ground level, ozone is a pollutant that can harm human
health. In the stratosphere, however, ozone forms a layer that protects life on earth from the sun's
harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. But this "good" ozone is gradually being destroyed by man-made
chemicals referred to as ozone-depleting substances, including chlorofluorocarbons, hydro
chlorofluorocarbons, and halons.
Crop and forest damage. Air pollution can damage crops and trees in a variety of ways. Ground-
level ozone can lead to reductions in agricultural crop and commercial forest yields, reduced
growth and survivability of tree seedlings, and increased plant susceptibility to disease, pests and
other environmental stresses (such as harsh weather).
Global climate change. The Earth's atmosphere contains a delicate balance of naturally occurring
gases that trap some of the sun's heat near the Earth's surface. This "greenhouse effect" keeps the
Earth's temperature stable.
Unfortunately, evidence is mounting that humans have disturbed this natural balance by producing
large amounts of some of these greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide and methane. As a
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 3
result, the Earth's atmosphere appears to be trapping more of the sun's heat, causing the Earth's
average temperature to rise - a phenomenon known as global warming. (Department of
environmental protection)
Pollutants:
An air pollutant is a substance in the air that can have adverse effects on humans and the ecosystem.
The substance can be solid particles, liquid droplets, or gases. A pollutant can be of natural origin
or man-made. Pollutants are classified as primary or secondary. Primary pollutants are usually
produced from a process, such as ash from a volcanic eruption. Other examples include carbon
monoxide gas from motor vehicle exhaust, or the sulfur dioxide released from factories. Secondary
pollutants are not emitted directly. Rather, they form in the air when primary pollutants react or
interact.
Ground level ozone is a prominent example of a secondary pollutant.
Some pollutants may be both primary and secondary: they are both emitted directly and formed
from other primary pollutants.
Substances emitted into the atmosphere by human activity include:
Carbon dioxide (CO2) - Because of its role as a greenhouse gas it has been described as "the
leading pollutant" and "the worst climate pollution". Carbon dioxide is a natural component of the
atmosphere, essential for plant life and given off by the human respiratory system.
Sulfur oxides (SOx) - particularly sulfur dioxide, a chemical compound with the formula SO2.
SO2 is produced by volcanoes and in various industrial processes. Coal and petroleum often
contain sulfur compounds, and their combustion generates sulfur dioxide. Further oxidation of
SO2, usually in the presence of a catalyst such as NO2, forms H2SO4, and thus acid rain.
Nitrogen oxides (NOx) - Nitrogen oxides, particularly nitrogen dioxide, are expelled from high
temperature combustion, and are also produced during thunderstorms by electric discharge. They
can be seen as a brown haze dome above or a plume downwind of cities.
Carbon monoxide (CO) - CO is a colorless, odorless, toxic yet non-irritating gas. It is a product
of incomplete combustion of fuel such as natural gas, coal or wood. Vehicular exhaust is a major
source of carbon monoxide.
Volatile organic compounds (VOC) - VOCs are a well-known outdoor air pollutant. They are
categorized as either methane (CH4) or non-methane (NMVOCs). Methane is an extremely
efficient greenhouse gas which contributes to enhance global warming.
Other hydrocarbon VOCs are also significant greenhouse gases because of their role in creating
ozone and prolonging the life of methane in the atmosphere. This effect varies depending on local
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 4
air quality. The aromatic NMVOCs benzene, toluene and xylene are suspected carcinogens and
may lead to leukemia with prolonged exposure. 1, 3-butadiene is another dangerous compound
often associated with industrial use.
Particulates, alternatively referred to as particulate matter (PM), atmospheric particulate matter,
or fine particles, are tiny particles of solid or liquid suspended in a gas. In contrast, aerosol refers
to combined particles and gas. Some particulates occur naturally, originating from volcanoes, dust
storms, forest and grassland fires, living vegetation, and sea spray. Persistent free
radicals connected to airborne fine particles are linked to cardiopulmonary disease.
Toxic metals, such as lead and mercury, especially their compounds.
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) - harmful to the ozone layer; emitted from products are currently
banned from use. These are gases which are released from air conditioners, refrigerators, aerosol
sprays, etc. On release into the air, CFCs rise to the stratosphere. Here they come in contact with
other gases and damage the ozone layer. This allows harmful ultraviolet rays to reach the earth's
surface. This can lead to skin cancer, eye disease and can even cause damage to plants.
Ammonia (NH3) - emitted from agricultural processes.
Secondary pollutants include:
Particulates created from gaseous primary pollutants and compounds in photochemical
smog. Smog is a kind of air pollution
Ground level ozone (O3) formed from NOx and VOCs. Ozone (O3) is a key constituent of the
troposphere. It is also an important constituent of certain regions of the stratosphere commonly
known as the Ozone layer. Photochemical and chemical reactions involving it drive many of the
chemical processes that occur in the atmosphere by day and by night. At abnormally high
concentrations brought about by human activities (largely the combustion of fossil fuel), it is a
pollutant, and a constituent of smog.
Peroxyacetyl nitrate (C2H3NO5) - similarly formed from NOx and VOCs.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 5
CURRENT STATUS:
Figure 1.1 – World status on air pollution
(http://www.healthdata.org/infographic/global-burden-air-pollution)
Countries like India, China, Africa, Australia, European countries, South and North America are
reported to have high rate of air pollution.
The research has stated that air pollution has caused around 5.5 million deaths around the world
where, India and China being the highest.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 6
PERCENTAGE OF POLLUTANTS
Figure 1.2 – Percentage of pollutants
(https://in.pinterest.com/pin/433682639096402492)
The above pie chart clearly indicates the concentration of pollutants which is being released to the
environment by several source. Above graph shows that the carbon di oxide content which is being
released by fossil fuels from the automobiles is very high.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 7
CONVENTIONAL METHODS:
A number of conventional methods are already in wide use, but many of them come with
disadvantages. Brief of major processes are given below:
Physical method
Chemical method
Biological method (Goli 2016)
Physical method:
Active carbon is a universal standard treatment. The absorbed substances will fill the porous
substances of active carbon thus removing the unwanted contaminants. (Fulazzaky 2014)
Chemical method:
Wet scrubbers are air pollution control devices that operate by transmitting polluted gas stream
into a scrubber liquid namely water. This process treats CO2 polluted air. The removal efficiency
of this method is controlled by increasing the contact duration or contact area by acquiring spray
nozzles or packed towers. High amount of wastewater, which requires secondary treatment is
produced by this technique. (Fulazzaky 2014)
Biological method:
This method basically has two types:
1. Tubular bioreactor
2. Algae reactor
In both the process microalgae is being used to convert the carbon di oxide into oxygen by
photosynthetic process by utilizing the other pollutants has nutrients for their growth. (Goli 2016)
In the current project we use microalgae specifically spirulina. Algae such as spirulina which is
capable of reducing the carbon-di-oxide (CO2), nitrogen oxide (NOX) and sulfur oxide (SOX) in
the polluted air and generating oxygen. The equipment comprises of the culture tank filled with
the culture fluid including algae and air supply unit.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 8
By radiating the light throughout the equipment using sunlight and fluorescent lamps during night
in the presence of carbon-di-oxide (CO2) photosynthesis will occur, which results in the oxygen
production. In addition to it algae utilizes nitrogen oxide (NOX) and sulfur oxide (SOX) as nutrients
during the photosynthesis.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 9
CHAPTER – 2
REVIEW OF LITERATURE:
An overview of biological process and their potential for CO2 capture –
Photosynthesis process involves the conversion of solar energy into chemical by plants and
organisms to power their activities. Carbohydrates molecules including sugar which is being
synthesized by CO2 and water would then store this chemical energy. Microalgae and
cyanobacteria with high growth rates are identified as microorganisms with carbon fixation rates
higher than those of terrestrial plants. Around 87 percent of human produced CO2 emissions
come from the burning fossil fuels such has coal, natural gas and oil (43% of CO2 emissions
from fuel burning is related to coal while 36%produced by oil and 20% from natural gas). High
CO2 emissions has been extensively investigated and effective treatment techniques to remove
high CO2 emission into the atmosphere was considered. CO2 capture methods can be divided
into five categories namely, chemical, physical, biological, physiochemical and combinational
techniques. Wet scrubbers, active carbon adsorption, raceway ponds and photo bioreactor were
the most efficient among all methods of CO2 treatments. (Goli 2016)
CO2, NOx, SOx removal from flue gases via micro algae cultivation –
Flue gas refers to the gas emitting from the combustion processes, and it contains CO2, NOx, SOx
and other potentially hazardous compounds. Due to the increasing concerns of CO2 emissions
and environmental pollution, the cleaning process of flue gas has attracted much attention. Using
microalgae to clean up flue gas via photosynthesis is considered a promising CO2 mitigation
process for flue gas. However, the impurities in the flue gas may inhibit micro algal growth,
leading to a lower microalgae-based CO2 fixation rate. The inhibition effects of SOx that
contribute to the low pH could be alleviated by maintaining a stable pH level, while NOx can be
utilized as a nitrogen source to promote microalgae growth when it dissolves and is oxidized in
the culture medium. The yielded micro algal biomass from fixing flue gas CO2 and utilizing NOx
and SOx as nutrients would become suitable feedstock to produce biofuels and bio-based
chemicals. In addition to the removal of SOx, NOx and CO2, using microalgae to remove heavy
metals from flue gas is also quite attractive. In conclusion, the use of microalgae for
simultaneous removal of CO2, SOx and NOx from flue gas is an environmentally benign process
and represents an ideal platform for CO2 reutilization. (Hong-Wei Yen 2015)
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 10
Growth performance and biochemical analysis of the genus Spirulina under different
physical and chemical environmental factors –
Spirulina is useful to man in many aspects of life including health, food and cosmetics. Spirulina
can have high mass production by varying a set of physical and chemical parameters.
Namely pH levels, Mg2+ ion concentration, nitrogen, phosphorous and carbon sources; salinity
and different growing media. Temperature, light intensity, and light/dark cycle.
After the study on spirulina it is found that various nutrients components has various functions in
the growth of spirulina. It is found that the nitrogen effects the accumulation of the lipids in the
micro algae. Phosphate plays an important role in the metabolic process whereas magnesium
added hydrolyze the water to generate hydroxide to increase the pH levels. Carbon is the main
nutrient for spirulina. It is usually made up of 50% of carbon component. pH is one of the main
factors influencing the growth of the spirulina. CO2 in the culture is consumed by the microalgae
during photosynthesis, thereby increasing the pH of the medium. Therefore, substances like
hydrochloric acid and acetic acid have to be added to control the pH to stop it from increasing
beyond the tolerance of the microalgae. (Dorothy Kemuma Nyabuto 2015)
Evaluation of different modes of operation for the production of Spirulina sp. –
Biological processes are alternatives for combating pollution and generating new products. The
microbial metabolism degrades and removes pollutants, which generates fewer environmentally
harmful products. In this scenario, microalgae have been studied for wastewater treatment, toxic
metal bioremediation, carbon dioxide (CO2), biofixation, biofuel, biopolymer and Nano fiber
production. Various cultivation conditions have been studied to increase the micro algal biomass
productivity and reduce production costs. Semi-continuous cultivations have several advantages
compared with batch and continuous processes. Semi-continuous processes involve periodically
replacing part of the microalgae culture medium with fresh culture medium (dilution). Such
cultivation methods can be used for larger scale biomass production while maintaining a high
microorganism growth rate. The same inoculum can be used for long periods, which avoids idle
time due to harvesting the formed biomass, cleaning the photo bioreactor and initiating the
process. Another advantage of this process is control of the nutritional and kinetic parameters.
(Juliana Botelho Moreira 2015)
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 11
Environmental Regulations, Air and Water Pollution, and Infant Mortality in India-
This paper takes advantage of an extensive and growing network of environmental monitoring
stations across India. Starting in 1987, India’s Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) began
compiling readings of NO2, SO2, and PM. The data were collected as a part of the National Air
Quality Monitoring Program, which was established by the CPCB to identify, assess, and
prioritize the pollution control needs in different areas, as well as to aid in the identification and
regulation of potential hazards and pollution sources.10 Individual State Pollution Control
Boards (SPCBs) are responsible for collecting the pollution readings and providing them to the
CPCB for checking, compilation, and analysis. The air quality data are collected from a
combination of CPCB online and print materials for the years 1987-2007. The full dataset
includes 572 air pollution monitors in 140 cities. Many of these monitors operate for just a
subset of the sample, and for most cities data is not available for all years. In the earliest year
(1987), the functioning monitors cover 20 cities, while 125 cities are monitored by 2007.
On average, there are 2.3 monitors per city, with 78 percent of cities possessing data from more
than one monitor in a given year. CPCB as a general indicator of pollution, receiving key
contributions from “fossil fuel burning, industrial processes and vehicular exhaust”. SO2
emissions, on the other hand, are predominantly a by-product of thermal power generation;
globally, 80 percent of sulfur emissions in 1990 were attributable to fossil fuel use. NO2 is
viewed by the CPCB as an indicator of vehicular pollution, though it is produced in almost all
combustion reactions. (Michael Greenstone 2013)
A study on air pollution by automobiles in Bangalore city-
This Paper has made an attempt to study on urban air pollution in Bangalore city by emission of
gases by vehicles which emit from them. The present day environment crisis demands a change
in attitude, which initiatives can be taken to rescue environment from destruction in the city of
Bangalore. But the urban areas have a big share in the present day environmental problems from
the automobiles throughout the world. At the global level, the rapid growth in motor vehicle
activity has serious energy security and climate change implications. The transport sector already
consumes nearly half of the world’s oil. But in urban areas – both developing and developed
countries, it is predominately mobile or vehicular pollution that contributes to air quality
problem. The sources of pollutants includes emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels in
motor vehicles and for industrial processes, energy production, domestic cooking and heating,
and high dust levels due to local construction, smoking, unpaved roads, sweeping, hotels,
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 12
restaurants and long-range transport. By this the quality of air has become so poor that,
Bangalore is the result of both high emissions from the vehicles and unfavorable conditions.
The rapid growth in motor vehicle activity is the challenges to overcome in urban areas in
Bangalore during the last and this decade. This has brought a serious range of socio-economic,
environmental, health, and welfare impacts on environmental degradation. The rapid growth in
motor vehicles in Bangalore is important not only because of their locally harmful air pollution
effects, but also because of their regional and global impacts.
(Mahadevappa Harish 2012)
Adverse cardiovascular effects of air pollution-
Air pollution is increasingly recognized as an important and modifiable determinant of
cardiovascular disease in urban communities. Acute exposure has been linked to a range of
adverse cardiovascular events including hospital admissions with angina, myocardial infarction,
and heart failure. Long-term exposure increases an individual’s lifetime risk of death from
coronary heart disease. The main arbiter of these adverse health effects seems to be combustion-
derived nanoparticles that incorporate reactive organic and transition metal components.
Inhalation of this particulate matter leads to pulmonary inflammation with secondary systemic
effects or, after translocation from the lung into the circulation, to direct toxic cardiovascular
effects. Through the induction of cellular oxidative stress and proinflammatory pathways,
particulate matter augments the development and progression of atherosclerosis via detrimental
effects on platelets, vascular tissue, and the myocardium.
These effects seem to underpin the atherothrombotic consequences of acute and chronic
exposure to air pollution. An increased understanding of the mediators and mechanisms of these
processes is necessary if we are to develop strategies to protect individuals at risk and reduce the
effect of air pollution on cardiovascular disease. (Nicholas L Mills 2009)
System for purifying a polluted air using algae-
In recent years, air pollution caused by exhausts from thermal power plants, automobiles and on
is becoming serious in every country of the World. The exhausts usually contain poisonous gas
components to the human body, for example, sulfur dioxide (S02), nitrogen oxide (NO,) and
carbon monoxide (CO). In particular, nitrogen oxide is very poisonous to the human body, and
gives a bad influence to nasal cavity, throat, trachea, bronchiole, alveolus, and blood vessels. In
addition, it is known that nitrogen oxide gas induces a photochemical smog under a Weather
condition. Since the nitrogen oxide gas has a relatively large specific gravity, it is said that the air
pollution is more serious in the underground shopping centre or subway station. The primary
objective is to provide a system for purifying a polluted air by using algae, which is capable of
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 13
reducing carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxide (NOx) and/or sulfur oxide (SOx) from the
polluted air and generating oxygen.
That is, this system comprises a culture tank filled with a culture fluid including the algae, an air
supply unit for forcing the polluted air into the culture fluid to dissolve carbon dioxide and
nitrogen oxide and/or sulfur oxide in the culture fluid, and a lighting unit for radiating a light to
the culture fluid. By radiating the light to the culture fluid in the presence of carbon dioxide,
photosynthesis of the algae is promoted to convert carbon dioxide to oxygen. In addition, the
algae use the nitrogen oxide and/or sulfur oxide as a nutrient during the photosynthesis to
generate a purified air, which is rich in oxygen. In the present system, it is possible to
continuously perform the air purifying operation a Whole day by using the lighting unit. It is
particularly preferred to use Spirulina as the algae. It is also preferred that the system comprises
a unit for removing the algae having a predetermined size, e.g., 300 pm or more from the culture
fluid. As the algae grow in the culture fluid, a light transmittance of the culture fluid becomes
poor. As a result, the grown algae may prevent the photosynthesis of the algae. Therefore, it is
preferred to intermittently remove the grown algae from the culture fluid by the removing unit.
In case of using Spirulina as the algae, grown Spirulina harvested from the culture fluid can be
used as foods or feeds. (Kodo 2000)
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 14
2.1 REVIEW TABLE
S.I.
NO
TITLE
AUTHOR,
JOURNAL,
YEAR
HIGHLIGHTS
1
An overview of biological
processes and their potential for
CO2 capture
Amin Goli a,
Journal of Environmental
Management,
2016
Different methods of
CO2 fixation
2
CO2, NOx and SOx removal
from flue gas via microalgae
cultivation
Hong-Wei Yen,
Biotechnology Journal,
2015
Mechanism of removal
of pollutants
by microalgae
3
Growth performance and
biochemical analysis of the germs
Spirulina under different physical
and chemical environment factors
Dorothy Kemuma
Nyabuto,
African Journal of
Agricultural Research,
2015
Nutrients essential for
the growth of spirulina
4
Biofixation of carbon dioxide
from coal station flue gas using
Spirulina sp.
Jorge Alberto Viera Costa,
African Journal of
Microbiology Research,
2015
Ability of CO2 fixation
by spirulina
5
Evaluation of different modes
of the process of Spirulina sp.
Juliana Botelho Moreira,
Wiley Online Library,
2015
Growth kinetics in
different modes
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 15
S.I.
NO
TITLE
AUTHOR,
JOURNAL,
YEAR
HIGHLIGHTS
6
Utilization of biogas as carbon
dioxide provide for spirulina
platensis culture
Siswo Sumardiano,
Current Research Journal
of Biological Sciences,
2014
Growth kinetics of
spirulina
7
Growth response of Spirulina
platensis PCC9108 elevated CO2
levels and flue gas
Seyed Mahdi Hoseini,
Biological Journal of
Microorganism,
2014
Culture media and
conditions of spirulina
8
Evaluation of gas retention time
effects on the bio trickling filter
reactor performance for treating
air contaminated with
formaldehyde
Mohamad Ali Fulazzaky,
RSC Publishing,
2014
Chemical and physical
method of air pollution
reduction
9
Growth measurement technique of
microalgae
Sivakumar R,
IJCS,
2013
Gives the OD for
measuring growth rate
of spirulina
10
Environmental Regulations,
Air and Water Pollution, and
Infant Mortality in India
Michael Greenstone,
Massachusetts Institute of
Technology,
2013
Effects of air pollution
on people and infants
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 16
S.I.
NO
TITLE
AUTHOR,
JOURNAL,
YEAR
HIGHLIGHTS
11
A study of air pollution by
automobiles in Bangalore City
Mahadevappa Harish,
IISc,
2012
Air pollution statistics
of Bangalore
12
Development of a process of
efficient use of CO2 from flue
gases in the production of
photosynthetic microorgansims
C.V. Gonza’lez-Lo’pez
Wiley Online Library,
2011
Absorption of CO2 by
microalgae
13
Adverse cardiovascular effects of
air pollution
Nicholas L Mills,
Nature,
2009
Effect of air pollution
on heart
14
System for purifying polluted air
by using algae
Keiun Kodo,
2000
Gives the basic idea on
how we should proceed
15
Solubility of Hydrogen, Oxygen,
Nitrogen and Helium in Water at
elevated temperatures
H.A. Pray,
Battelle Memorial Institute
Solubility of nitrogen
in water
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 17
2.2 LACUNAE
User friendly and effective equipments are not available
Renewable energy is not screened
2.3 OBJECTIVES
To design a cost effective equipment to mitigate air pollution and reduction of pollutants from
the auto-exhaust gases
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 18
CHAPTER – 3
MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY
SUB CULTURING:
The micro algae spirulina platensis was provided by the Wellisen Nutraceuticals. Cells were
cultivated in the modified culture medium with ratio 1:1. It was stored under sunlight with
complete aeration. The sub culturing was done for every 10 days. The culture medium was
maintained at a temperature of 20˚c to 40˚c. It is preferred that the pH value of the culture fluid is
10.5.
MATERIALS REQUIRED:
Spirulina
Conical flask
Glass wares
Auto clave
Chemicals
TABLE 3.1 – CONSTITUENTS OF CULTURE MEDIUM
Constituents Composition (g/l)
Sodium bicarbonate 8.0
Sodium chloride 5.0
Potassium sulphate 0.5
Magnesium sulphate 0.16
Sodium nitrate 2.0
Ferrous sulphate 0.001
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 19
PROCEDURE:
1 liter of distilled water was taken in a conical flask, and it was sterilized using auto clave for
about 15 minutes at 120˚c.
It was cooled until it reached room temperature.
Then the chemicals was been weighed
The chemicals was added to the sterile water, and then stirred until all the chemicals was
dissolved.
Make the nutrient media and spirulina in the ratio 1:1.
METHODOLOGY:
The primary objective of this invention is to provide a system for purifying a polluted air by using
spirulina algae, which is capable of reducing NOX, SOX, CO2 & CO from the polluted air and
generating oxygen.
MATERIALS REQUIRED:
Spirulina
Gas cylinder
Solar panel
Battery
Converter
Pipes and wires
LED lights
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 20
PROCEDURE:
The system consists of culture tank filled with the culture fluid including spirulina.
The polluted air is supplied to the tank using a gas cylinder, which is connected to it. .
LED lights are connected to the system to radiate light to the culture.
Power provided is obtained by solar panel installed on top of the acrylic polymer chamber.
The culture fluid in presence of CO2 & light undergoes photosynthesis to convert CO2 into O2 In
addition, the algae uses NOX & SOX as a nutrients.
As a result the system generates a purified air which is rich in O2.
Purified air comes out of the chamber, which is released to the environment.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 21
Figure 3.1 – Design of the air pollution reduction equipment of auto exhaust gases
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 22
ANALYSIS OF NO AND SO:
NOx and SOx are the two important dangerous gases that are present in the polluted air. There are
different methods to analyze the concentration of NOx & SOx. The NOx and SOx gases which are
present in the air are consumed by the spirulina during photosynthesis as a main nutrient. The
concentration of these gases present in the polluted air is obtained by analyzing the amount of NOx
and SOx that are dissolved in the algae (spirulina).
MATERIALS REQUIRED:
Chemicals
Reagents
Glass wares
Colorimeter
Cuvette
CHEMICALS REQUIRED:
Mercuric chloride
p-Rosaniline hydrochloride
Formaldehyde
Sulphamic acid
NEDA solution
Hydrogen peroxide solution
Sulphanilamide
Phosphoric acid
PREPARATION OF REAGENTS:
Preparation of P- Rosaniline HCl
Dissolve 0.2gms of the reagent in 100ml of distilled water
Filter it after 48hrs
Pipette 20ml of the solution into 100ml of volumetric flask
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 23
Add 6ml of concentrated HCL, Keep for 5 minutes
Dilute it to 100ml of distilled water
The solution should be pale yellow in color with greenish tent
Keep it in umber color bottle in refrigerator
Preparation of Sulphanilamide
Dissolve 10gms of reagent in 350ml of distilled water.
Add with mixing 25ml of conc.-phosphoric acid.
Dilute to 500ml with distilled water.
Preparation of NEDA
Dissolve 0.5gms of NEDA in 500ml of distilled water.
Keep it in refrigerator and protect from light.
Preparation of hydrogen peroxide
Dissolve 0.2ml of 30% hydrogen peroxide in 250ml of distilled water.
Keep it in refrigerator and protect from light.
Preparation of Sulphamic Acid
Dissolve 0.6gms of the reagent to 100ml with distilled water and store in a reagent bottle.
Preparation of formaldehyde
Dilute 5ml of 40% solution in 1 liter of distilled water.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 24
ANALYSIS OF SOx:
10ml of sample has been taken
1ml of Sulphamic Acid & 2ml of Rosaniline HCl, HCHO has been added
After been made up to 25ml, it was kept for 30 minutes at RT
Absorbance has been measured at 560 nm
ANALYSIS OF NOx:
10ml of sample has been taken.
10ml of Sulphanilamide, 1ml of H2O2 & 1.4ml of NEDA has been added.
After been made up to 25ml, it was kept for 10 minutes at RT.
Absorbance has been measured at 560 nm.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 25
CHAPTER – 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Figure 4.1 - Sub culturing of spirulina
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 26
Figure 4.2 - Preliminary analysis
Figure 4.2 was done by collecting the polluted gas for 5 minutes from the automobile in a 2 liter
plastic container filled with 1 liter of the spirulina algae culture. This algae helps in the reduction
of the pollutants from the gases like SOx and NOx.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 27
Number of days Sox
OD @ 560 nm
NOx
OD @ 540 nm
1st
0.31 0.04
3rd 0.52 0.07
5th 0.84 0.1
Table 4.1 – Optical density of NOx and SOx
Table 4.1 indicates the amount of reduction in SOX and NOX occurred. This preliminary
experiment was basically done to notice if there in any reduction in the pollutants and it is found
that the pollutant has been utilized by the spirulina as nutrients.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 28
Figure 4.3 - Air pollution equipment
This is the equipment which has been designed for the reduction of pollutants in the air pollution,
where the spirulina utilizes the pollutants in the air as the nutrients required for their growth.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 29
Figure 4.4- Standard calibration curve of NOx
This is the standard calibration curve which indicates the absorbance of the nitrogen oxide when
OD is being taken at 560nm.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 30
Time
(in hours)
Absorbance @ 560nm
Micrograms of NO2
2 0.48 12.5
4 0.49 13
6 0.51 13.5
8 0.53 14.5
Table 4.2 - Optical density of NOx
Above table 4.2 shows that, when the absorbance is taken at 540 nm and then it is extrapolated
on the standard calibration curve the micrograms of nitrogen oxide is obtained. From the values
it is clear that there in the increase in the amount of the nitrogen oxide in the spirulina culture
where it is being utilized as the nutrients.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 31
Figure 4.5 - Concentration of NOx
This figure 4.5 shows that there is reduction in the amount of the nitrogen oxide in the air which
is being purified in the air pollution reduction equipment. It is seen that there is reduction in
nitrogen oxide present in the purified air which has been observed every hour.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 32
Figure 4.6- Standard calibration curve of SOx
This is the standard calibration curve which indicates the absorbance of the sulfur oxide when
OD is being taken at 560nm.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 33
Time
(in hours)
Absorbance
@ 560nm
Microlitres of SO2
2 0.28 72.054
4 0.31 72.97
6 0.32 74.28
8 0.34 74.90
Table 4.3 - Optical density of SOx
Above table shows that when the absorbance is taken at 560 nm, it is then extrapolated on the
standard calibration curve which gives the micro liters of sulfur oxide. From the values which
has been found it shows that there in the increase in the amount of the sulfur oxide in the
spirulina culture where it is being utilized has the nutrients.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 34
Figure 4.7- Concentration of SOx
This figure 4.7 shows that there is reduction in the amount of the sulfur oxide in the air which is
being purified in the air pollution reduction equipment. It is seen that there is reduction in sulfur
oxide present in the purified air which has been observed every hour
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 35
Figure 4.8- Spirulina growth curve during the reduction of pollutants
The growth of the spirulina which is being observed during the reduction of the pollutants from
the auto exhaust gas is shown here. By taking up the pollutants as the nutrients spirulina has
shown incredible growth when it is compared to the normal growth of the spirulina algae.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 36
Figure 4.9- Spirulina growth curve
Above figure 4.9 indicates the growth of the spirulina after it is been sub cultured. The growth of
the spirulina is observed every alternative day and we have seen that initially the growth is in lag
phase and then there is a linear growth of the culture.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 37
\
Figure 4.10 (a)
Figure 4.10 (b)
Above figure 4.10 (a) indicate the change in the color due to the presence of the NOX in the
spirulina which is being absorbed has nutrient.
Above figure 4.10 (b) indicate the change in the color due to the presence of the SOX in the
spirulina which is being absorbed has nutrient.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 38
CHAPTER 5
CONCLUSION
This report mainly focuses on the reduction of pollutants in auto exhaust air. Here it is done by
passing the auto exhaust air to the equipment containing spirulina. This algae utilizes the
carbon di oxide, nitrogen oxide and sulfur oxide as the nutrients for its growth.
The results has shown that by the process of photosynthesis where carbon di oxide is converted to
oxygen utilizing nitrogen oxide and sulfur oxide as nutrients spirulina has reduced the pollutants.
Through series of test it is found that the amount of nitrogen oxide, carbon di oxide and sulfur
oxide has been reduced.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 39
CHAPTER 6
BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Costa, J. A. V., de Morais, M. G., Radmann, E. M., Santana, F. I. B., Camerini, F., Henrard,
A. A., ... & Brusch, L. U. (2015). Biofixation of carbon dioxide from coal station flue gas
using Spirulina sp. LEB 18 and Scenedesmus obliquus LEB 22. African Journal of
Microbiology Research, 9(44), 2202-2208.
2. Fulazzaky, M. A., Talaiekhozani, A., Majid, M. Z. A., Ponraj, M., & Goli, A. (2013).
Evaluation of gas retention time effects on the bio-trickling filter reactor performance for
treating air contaminated with formaldehyde. RSC Advances, 3(38), 17462-17468.
3. Goli, A., Shamiri, A., Talaiekhozani, A., Eshtiaghi, N., Aghamohammadi, N., & Aroua,
M. K. (2016). An overview of biological processes and their potential for CO 2
capture. Journal of Environmental Management, 183, 41-58.
4. González‐López, C. V., Acién Fernández, F. G., Fernández‐Sevilla, J. M., Sánchez
Fernández, J. F., & Molina Grima, E. (2012). Development of a process for efficient use
of CO2 from flue gases in the production of photosynthetic microorganisms. Biotechnology
and bioengineering, 109(7), 1637-1650.
5. Greenstone, M., & Hanna, R. (2014). Environmental regulations, air and water pollution,
and infant mortality in India. The American Economic Review, 104(10), 3038-3072.
6. Hoseini, S., Almodares, A., Afsharzadeh, S., Hatamipur, M. S., & Montazeri, F. (2014).
Growth response of Spirulina platensis PCC9108 to elevated CO2 levels and flue
gas. Biological Journal of Microorganism, 2(8).
7. Harish, M. (2012). A study on air pollution by automobiles in Bangalore city. Management
Research and Practice, (3), 36-36.
8. Kodo, K., Kodo, Y., & Tsuruoka, M. (2000). U.S. Patent No. 6,083,740. Washington, DC:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Design and fabrication of cost effective equipment using biofilters for the
removal of auto exhaust gas utilizing solar energy 2017
Department of Biotechnology, NHCE Page 40
9. Mills, N. L., Donaldson, K., Hadoke, P. W., Boon, N. A., MacNee, W., Cassee, F. R., ... &
Newby, D. E. (2009). Adverse cardiovascular effects of air pollution. Nature clinical
practice Cardiovascular medicine, 6(1), 36-44.
10. Moreira, J. B., Costa, J. A. V., & de Morais, M. G. (2016). Evaluation of different modes
of operation for the production of Spirulina sp. Journal of Chemical Technology and
Biotechnology, 91(5), 1345-1348.
11. NYABUTO, D. K., Kewei, C. A. O., MARIGA, A. M., KIBUE, G. W., Meilin, H. E., &
Changhai, W. A. N. G. (2015). Growth performance and biochemical analysis of the genus
Spirulina under different physical and chemical environmental factors. African Journal of
Agricultural Research, 10(36), 3614-3624
12. Pray, H. A., Schweickert, C. E., & Minnich, B. H. (1952). Solubility of hydrogen, oxygen,
nitrogen, and helium in water at elevated temperatures. Industrial & Engineering
Chemistry, 44(5), 1146-1151.
13. Ra, S., & Rajendranb, S. Growth measurement technique of microalgae.
14. Sumardiono, S., Budiyono, I. S., & Sasongko, S. B. (2014). Utilization of biogas as carbon
dioxide provider for Spirulina platensis culture. Current Research Journal of Biological
Sciences, 6(1), 53-59.
15. Yen, H. W., Ho, S. H., Chen, C. Y., & Chang, J. S. (2015). CO2, NOx and SOx removal
from flue gas via microalgae cultivation: A critical review. Biotechnology journal, 10(6),
829-839.