Algae Photobioreactor for CO2 Capture and Biomass Production
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high resource costs and inefficiencies associated with capturing, sequestering, and utilizing carbon dioxide pose a significant challenge, particularly for industries or regions with limited resources and capabilities, hindering the widespread adoption of carbon capture technologies.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of algae photoreactors that capture carbon dioxide through collection, extraction, processing, storage, and distribution, while maintaining optimal conditions for algae growth, and utilizing sensors and computing devices for monitoring and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional carbon capture methods (solvent-based capture) are used, then carbon dioxide can be captured, but significant energy is consumed for heating the solvent to release captured carbon dioxide
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of carbon capture from chemical absorption (solvent-based) to biological fixation (algae photosynthesis). This eliminates the need for thermal regeneration and high energy consumption, as algae naturally convert CO2 to biomass through photosynthesis without requiring heating or chemical regeneration processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/thermal system of solvent heating and CO2 release with a biological system where algae naturally fix CO2 through photosynthesis. This substitution eliminates the energy-intensive thermal cycle and replaces it with a natural biological process that operates at ambient temperatures.
2Quantity of substance
If extensive infrastructure (pipelines, storage facilities) is built for carbon dioxide transportation and storage, then captured carbon dioxide can be stored, but substantial investments and logistical complexities are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful CO2 gas into beneficial biomass products. Instead of needing separate storage and transportation infrastructure for CO2, the system produces valuable biomass that can be directly utilized or sold, transforming the waste product into a resource that eliminates the need for complex CO2 storage infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The algae system self-manages the carbon storage function by incorporating CO2 into biomass molecules. The biomass itself serves as the storage medium, eliminating the need for external storage facilities. The system is self-sufficient, converting CO2 directly into storable biomass products without requiring separate infrastructure.
3Reliability
If traditional carbon capture infrastructure is constructed, then carbon capture capability is established, but time-consuming and costly construction and deployment processes occur
Solution Approach 1:
The algae photobioreactor system serves multiple functions simultaneously: CO2 capture, biomass production, and potential energy generation. This multi-functionality allows for faster deployment compared to specialized CO2 capture infrastructure, as the same system accomplishes multiple objectives without requiring separate facilities for each function.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces operational costs and enhances the efficiency of carbon capture by utilizing biomass for storage and utilization, thereby facilitating the deployment and implementation of carbon capture systems.
Implementation Method 1
The algae may be allowed to grow before being harvested
Data Source
AI summary
Carbon dioxide containing gas is collected from a point source or atmosphere and is dried, treated, and compressed. The compressed gas is fed into an algae reactor which maintains optimal conditions for algae growth. The algae grows until it reaches sufficient density to be harvested. The harvested algae is processed and packaged for sale. Additionally, revenues may be earned by quantifying the amount of CO2 captured and sequestered by the algae and determining the carbon credit equivalent value. Byproducts may additionally be sold in addition to equipment sales and licensing.