A Novel Low Cost, High Efficiency, Algal Biomass Harvest and Dewatering Technology for Biodiesel Production

Governments and industry have recently placed significant emphasis on finding affordable renewable fuels to supplement and/or replace fossil fuel use. Biodiesel produced from microalgae has been identified as a highly attractive option for affordable renewable fuel. This project will develop a low cost, high-efficiency algal biomass harvest and dewatering process. In Phase I, a small scale system was built and tested in partnership with the Virginia Coastal Energy Research Consortium. Experimental observations led to design improvements and a system demonstration of the derived algae concentration and dewatering system (ACDS). Results were highly favorable, with economic projections suggesting a fourfold reduction in cost compared to current technology. Further optimization of the ACDS will take place in Phase II, in which a larger-scale system will be built and tested based on the lessons-learned in Phase I. Refinement of the key performance parameters will be carried out, and the integration of the ACDS into algal biodiesel production will be investigated. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Large-scale biodiesel fuel production from algae should reduce the economic uncertainty tied to energy costs, increase national security due to less dependence on imported oil, and reduce environmental threats from global warming