Algae-Based Biofuel Production: From Growth to Biodiesel
This project explores the conversion of CO2 to lipids using algae, aiming to produce biodiesel in a scalable industrial application. Preliminary experiments involved growth studies on local algae strains, particularly Chlorella vulgaris, and faced challenges such as competition from bacteria during pilot plant construction. Key achievements included a process flow diagram via UNISIM simulations and catalyst design decisions. However, obstacles in reactor sizing and solids handling prompted reconsideration of methodologies. Our final design encompasses equipment sizing, piping diagrams, and a thorough feasibility analysis to advance algae biofuel production.
Algae-Based Biofuel Production: From Growth to Biodiesel
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Presentation Transcript
The Team Steve Pohler Eric Michel Nate Gifford Mark Dekker Caleb Mutschler
Summary • Overview • Experimental accomplishments • Experimental Obstacles • Base case and UNISIM design • Final Design • Questions
Overview • Use algae to convert CO2 to lipids • Convert lipids into biodiesel • Scaled to industrial application
Preliminary Experiments • Growth studies on local algae • Conducted research on various strains • Chlorella vulgaris
Pilot Plant • Algae was initially grown in growth chambers • Transferred to reactor • Bacteria was also introduced • Bacteria outcompeted algae for nutrients • Experimentation was discontinued
Base Case • Developed a process flow diagram • Utilized UNISIM process simulator to model • Catalyst design decision • Early equipment selection
UNISIM • Developed biomass and triglyceride hypotheticals • Useful for early estimates of equipment sizing • Models liquid operations better than solid
Final Design • Hand calculations to size equipment • Develop a piping and instrumentation diagram • Process costing • Feasibility analysis
Obstacles • Reasonable sizing estimates of photobioreactor • Solids handling • Dewatering • Crushing