Using scaffolds/membranes for a better CO2 fixation by algae

In this project, we propose three different systems, to improve the utilization and fixation of CO2 from CO2-rich gas streams and at the same time produce algal biomass, which can be further processed into useful products. The possibility of using scaffolds such as fungal biomass, raschig rings, or glass bead to improve CO2 fixation has to the best of our knowledge, not been studied before.

Start date: 2022-07-01

End date: 2024-06-30

The main purposes of the project is to: 1. To investigate different scaffolds or membranes to aid a good gas-liquid interaction and slow down the gas flow in the bioreactor in order to improve CO2 solubilization and utilization by the algae. Scaffolds composed of fungal biomass, raschig rings, glass beads, or membranes are to be studied. 2. To examine the algal growth and CO2 fixation using scaffolds or membranes when supplying different nutrients from waste streams e.g. anaerobic digester, VFA effluents, pulp, and paper mills. 3. To simulate Swedish summer and winter conditions, namely warm/cold temperature and long/short period of light, during the usage of scaffolds and membranes and examine the CO2 fixation.