In the quest to make microalgae cultivation more economically viable, a team of researchers led by Danilo Marchese has explored a novel approach that could significantly impact the energy and biofuel sectors. The study, published in the English-language journal “Chemical Engineering Transactions,” investigates the applicability of a bicarbonate-based carbon capture method to industrially relevant marine microalgae, potentially revolutionizing the way we produce valuable biomass.
Microalgae are primary producers of essential molecules like fatty acids and antioxidants, which are highly sought after for animal feeds, human food, and nutraceuticals. However, the high costs associated with their large-scale production have been a major hurdle. Traditional methods require substantial energy for CO2 management, mixing, and cooling, which can diminish the overall profitability of the process.
Enter the BICCAPSO (Bicarbonate-based Induced Carbon Capture and Algae Production System on Ocean) approach. This innovative strategy aims to address these limitations by utilizing alternative inorganic carbon sources, such as sodium bicarbonate, and cheaper sea-powered floating photobioreactors. “The idea is to make the process more sustainable and cost-effective,” explains Marchese, whose affiliation details are not provided.
One of the primary challenges of using bicarbonate as a sole carbon source is the progressive increase in pH levels, which can adversely affect microalgae growth and carbon availability. As a result, most existing research has focused on alkaliphilic microalgae species, often excluding industrially relevant strains. However, Marchese and his team have taken a different approach.
In their study, both alkaliphilic and mesophilic microalgae were cultivated in batch mode using the BICCAPSO method. The results were promising, suggesting that this strategy could be extended to mesophilic strains when carbon concentration is well-balanced. The team achieved a maximum biomass productivity of 0.35 grams per liter per day with the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum.
The researchers also delved into pH management, experimenting with various strategies to stabilize this operative variable. “By optimizing pH levels, we aim to further increase biomass productivity without compromising the economic viability of the process,” Marchese notes.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. If successfully scaled up, the BICCAPSO approach could make microalgae cultivation more economically viable, opening up new avenues for the production of biofuels and other valuable bioproducts. This could have a significant impact on the energy sector, providing a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional fossil fuels.
Moreover, the study highlights the importance of exploring alternative carbon sources and optimizing cultivation conditions to enhance biomass productivity. As Marchese and his team continue to refine their approach, the future of microalgae cultivation looks increasingly bright.
In the broader context, this research underscores the need for innovative solutions to address the challenges of large-scale microalgae production. By pushing the boundaries of traditional methods, scientists like Marchese are paving the way for a more sustainable and economically viable future in the energy and biofuel sectors.