Carbon sequestration using microalgae

• Main Author: Yeo, Kaiwei
• Other Authors: Lau Wai Man Raymond
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2018
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Chemical engineering; DRNTU::Science::Medicine::Biomedical engineering
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/75437
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Global warming is a worldwide problem due to increasing emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere. International movements for emerging green technologies (e.g. alternative fuels and electronic vehicles) have been introduced to promote environmental friendliness. Even so, results are not as substantial which brings urgency to the implementation of carbon sequestration techniques. Carbon capture and storage techniques have gained popularity as an alternative for reducing carbon concentrations and improving atmosphere. However, these temporary solutions cannot sustain for the next few generations. A potential solution is carbon sequestration using biological products such as microalgae. Microalgae are fast-growing organisms with high photosynthetic efficiency, up to 20 times more, as compared to other plants. Efficiency and effectivity are largely dependent on carbon dioxide (CO2) for photosynthesis but there are other factors to consider (e.g. cultivation systems, environmental conditions, etc.). This unicellular organism is one of the most productive biological systems that capture and consume large quantities of CO2 for growth and production of biomass. Even though high CO2 concentrations poses as a form of contaminant, this study ensures that it enhances the growth and productivity of phytoplankton microalgae. By maximizing on flue gas emitted by power plants, effective carbon bio-sequestration is achievable. The potential for industrial applications in carbon sequestration using flue gas and microalgae for second generation products will progress. This report aims to review and share the knowledge available on this technology. The result of this work concludes the next phase necessary for the development of carbon sequestration using microalgae.