Process optimization for maximum algae biomass production and cost-effective harvesting

A high content of lipid in the micro-algae cells can be obtained by selection of the right organism, genetic modification and by applying environmental stress during cultivation. However, economical production of lipid requires an efficient and cost-effective cultivation of the algae.

Operational parameters such as temperature, hydraulic retention time, pH, supply of light, nutrients and CO2 can all affect the growth rate of the algae. An optimization is therefore required prior to up-scaling the process.

Algae have to be harvested before extraction of lipids. Timely harvesting is essential for a high productivity because high density of biomass prevents the penetration of light into the cultivation leading to low cultivation efficiency. However, the harvesting methods currently used such as flocculation or flotation followed by centrifugation or compressing are expensive. So, for commercialization of algal biodiesel, innovative and cost-effective harvesting technologies have to be developed.

Duration:
This project runs from 2009 to 2011

Employees involved:
Jingquan Lu, Klaus Breddam, Anne Olsen and Helge Egsgaard

Page updated by 08.10.2010

Claes Gjermansen
Senior Scientist
Biosystems (BIO)
Dir tel+45 46774281