Achieving a Green Solution: Limitations and Focus Points for Sustainable Algal Fuels

Douglas Aitken, Blanca Antizar Ladislao

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract / Description of output

Research investigating the potential of producing biofuels from algae has been enjoying a recent revival due to heightened oil prices, uncertain fossil fuel sources and legislative targets aimed at reducing our contribution to climate change. If the concept is to become a reality however, many obstacles need to be overcome. Recent studies have suggested that open ponds provide the most sustainable means of cultivation infrastructure due to their low energy inputs compared to more energy intensive photobioreactors. Most studies have focused on strains of algae which are capable of yielding high oil concentrations combined with high productivity. Yet it is very difficult to cultivate such strains in open ponds as a result of microbial competition and limited radiation-use efficiency. To improve viability, the use of wastewater has been considered by many researchers as a potential source of nutrients with the added benefit of tertiary water treatment however productivity rates are affected and optimal conditions can be difficult to maintain year round. This paper investigates the process streams which are likely to provide the most viable methods of energy recovery from cultivating and processing algal biomass. The key findings are the importance of a flexible approach which depends upon location of the cultivation ponds and the industry targeted. Additionally this study recommends moving towards technologies producing higher energy recoveries such as pyrolysis or anaerobic digestion as opposed to other studies which focused upon biodiesel production.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1613-1647
Number of pages36
JournalEnergies
Volume5
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2012

Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)

  • Sustainability
  • algae
  • biofuels
  • challenges
  • limitations

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  • Sustainable Fuel from Algae: Challenges and New Directions

    Aitken, D. & Antizar Ladislao, B., Sept 2013, Advances in Biofuel Production Algae and Aquatic Plants. Gikonyo, B. (ed.). CRC Press, 36 p.

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter (peer-reviewed)

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  • The Economist

    Blanca Antizar Ladislao (Interviewee)

    8 Sept 2011

    Activity: Other activity typesTypes of Public engagement and outreach - Media article or participation

  • Algal Energy: Venice turns green

    Blanca Antizar Ladislao (Interviewee)

    Sept 2011

    Activity: Other activity typesTypes of Public engagement and outreach - Media article or participation

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