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Photobioreactors for Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide Fixation (Liquid trees): A Conceptual Approach Using Chlorella vulgaris Cultivation
Published:
31 March 2025
by MDPI
in The 3rd International Electronic Conference on Microbiology
session Microbial Characterization and Bioprocess
Abstract:
Liquid trees are photobioreactors cultivating microalgae such as Chlorella vulgaris and represent a promising innovation in the fight against environmental pollution. These systems leverage the photosynthetic capacity of microalgae to capture atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2), thereby contributing to the mitigation of climate change effects. Furthermore, the produced algal biomass can be utilized for diverse applications, ranging from biofuel production to animal feed.
Construction Methodology:
- Reactor: The core of the system is a reactor, typically a transparent glass or plastic vessel, which provides a controlled environment for microalgae cultivation, including adequate illumination, mixing, and aeration of the culture.
- Light Source: A solar panel serves as the primary energy source for the system. During daylight hours, the solar panel provides the necessary energy for microalgae photosynthesis. Additionally, a battery can store excess energy generated during the day to power the system at night.
- Aeration System: A compressor, powered by the solar panel, supplies CO2-enriched air to the reactor. CO2 is essential for the photosynthetic process and enables efficient microalgae growth.
- Control System: A control system, which can be electronic or mechanical, monitors and regulates culture parameters, such as temperature, pH, nutrient concentration, and light intensity.
- Recirculation Pump: A recirculation pump ensures a homogeneous distribution of nutrients and oxygen within the culture.
Expected Outcomes:
- Fix Large Amounts of CO2: Microalgae, due to their high growth rate and photosynthetic efficiency, can capture significant amounts of atmospheric CO2.
- Produce Algal Biomass: The produced algal biomass can be used for various applications, such as the production of biofuels, animal feed, fertilizers, and chemical products.
- Improve Air Quality: By removing CO2 from the atmosphere, liquid trees improve air quality.
- Be Energy Self-Sufficient: Through the use of solar panels, liquid trees can operate autonomously, without requiring connection to the electricity grid.
Keywords: microalgae; CO2 ; biomass; pollution; photobioreactor ; sustainability ; liquid trees