A Novel Algal Harvesting and Dewatering Method for the Economically Feasible Production of Biofuels From Microalgae Growing on Industrial Emissions

Current algae harvesting methods are energy intensive and costly. This invention describes a method for concentrating microalgae using flue gas. Flocculation of microalgae is induced by increasing the rate of flue gas delivery. In response to increases in flue gas flow rate cells become highly concentrated allowing algal biomass to be easily and economically harvested.

Benefits

1) Algae are flocculated without the use of chemical additives. 2) Allows for more efficient low-cost harvesting of algae. 3) Avoids the release of chemical waste resulting in lower environmental impact. 4) Microalgae can grow in harsh environments and grow more efficiently than terrestrial agriculture crops.

Date of release