Biological CO2-to-Hydrogen Conversion Using Algae and Biodecomposition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hydrogen production methods, such as electrolytic splitting of water and steam reforming, are inefficient, costly, and environmentally unsustainable, while direct microbial conversion of methane to hydrogen faces efficiency challenges and carbon dioxide emission issues, hindering the widespread adoption of hydrogen as a viable fuel for electric vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A process that converts carbon dioxide into hydrogen through a two-step biodecomposition process using algae for photosynthesis and bacteria to produce an organic feedstock, followed by aerobic and anaerobic biodecomposition to generate hydrogen, potentially supplemented by steam reforming, reducing carbon dioxide emissions and increasing hydrogen yield.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If electrolytic splitting of water is used to generate hydrogen, then hydrogen production is achieved, but capital costs are very expensive and real estate availability is challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical electrolysis system with a biological system using algae and bacteria. The biological conversion process occurs at ambient conditions without requiring large-scale electrical equipment, thereby reducing capital costs and real estate requirements while maintaining hydrogen production capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters from high-energy electrolysis conditions to ambient temperature and pressure biological conditions. By using algae for photosynthesis and bacteria for biodecomposition, the system operates under milder conditions that reduce equipment complexity and capital investment.
2Productivity
If steam reforming is used to generate hydrogen, then hydrogen yield is high, but carbon dioxide emissions are generated and energy intensity is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful carbon dioxide emissions into a useful resource by feeding CO2 to algae for photosynthesis. The algae convert CO2 into organic feedstock, which is then processed by bacteria to produce hydrogen. This transforms the waste product into a valuable input, eliminating emissions while maintaining high hydrogen yield.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the carbon dioxide emission stream with the hydrogen production process by using algae to convert CO2 into organic matter that feeds the bacterial hydrogen production. This integration creates a closed-loop system where waste becomes resource, simultaneously achieving high productivity and environmental sustainability.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If direct microbial conversion of methane to hydrogen is used, then carbon dioxide emissions are reduced, but conversion efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the conversion process into two distinct biological stages: first, algae convert CO2 into organic feedstock through photosynthesis; second, bacteria convert the organic feedstock into hydrogen through biodecomposition. This segmentation allows each organism to operate at its optimal efficiency, overcoming the low conversion efficiency of direct microbial conversion while maintaining low CO2 emissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (organic feedstock produced by algae) between the carbon source and hydrogen production. This intermediary allows efficient energy transfer and conversion, enabling high conversion efficiency while maintaining the environmental benefits of biological conversion.
4Ease of manufacture
If hydrogen production cost is reduced to be competitive with petrol, then hydrogen vehicles can become mainstream, but current production methods are too expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a self-service system where algae use sunlight and CO2 to produce organic feedstock, and bacteria use the organic feedstock to produce hydrogen. The system uses free or low-cost inputs (sunlight, CO2 emissions) and generates valuable outputs, eliminating the need for expensive external energy inputs and chemical reagents, thereby reducing production costs while maintaining viable production rates.
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 process enhances hydrogen production efficiency, reduces energy costs, and eliminates carbon dioxide emissions, making hydrogen production more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Implementation Method 1
converting a first waste carbon dioxide gas stream to an organic feedstock using an algal source in a photosynthesis step
Implementation Method 2
converting the organic feedstock, using an organism, to the hydrogen gas stream and gaseous by-products in a biodecomposition step
Implementation Method 3
a biodecomposition step that includes an aerobic biodecomposition step and an anaerobic biodecomposition step
Implementation Method 4
a biodecomposition step that includes an aerobic biodecomposition step and an anaerobic biodecomposition step
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a process and system for generating hydrogen from carbon dioxide. The process and system for generating a hydrogen gas stream from a carbon dioxide gas stream comprises converting a first waste carbon dioxide gas stream to an organic feedstock using an algal source in a photosynthesis step. The organic feedstock is then converted using an organism to the hydrogen gas stream and gaseous by-products in a biodecomposition step. The generated hydrogen gas may then be collected.