CO2 separation by algae
CO2 separation by algae
Climate change is one of the greatest challenges for humanity in the 21st century. The greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO2) plays an important role, the concentration of which increases steadily in the atmosphere. The discovery and use of alternative technologies to reduce CO2 is therefore becoming increasingly important. One of the most promising technologies in this area is CO2 departure by algae, which is examined in more detail as part of this article.
The important role of algae
Definition and biodiversity
algae are a very diverse group of organisms that can be both cell and multi-cell (multi-cell). They are able to convert carbon dioxide into organic substances and generate oxygen through photosynthesis. The algae include the simply built green algae, the more complex brown and red algae, as well as the microscopic phytoplankton.
ecological meaning
Due to their ability to photosynthesis, algae play a central role in the global carbon cycle. They absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and thus contribute to reducing the CO2 concentration. In addition, they produce oxygen through photosynthesis: if one assumes that algae provide around half of the entire global photosynthesis performance, they provide about half of the atmospheric oxygen.
The technology of CO2 separation by algae
functional principle
The functional principle of CO2 separation by algae is based on the natural ability of the microalgae to use CO2 for their photosynthesis. This principle is used and reinforced by optimizing the growth conditions in algae reactors. The goal is a maximum structure of biomass, because the CO2 is bound via the biomass. After harvesting the algae, this biomass can be processed in different ways, so that the CO2 remains permanently bound and does not return to the atmosphere.
algae reactors
algae reactors are the most important components of technology. These are closed systems in which algae can grow under controlled conditions. The reactors are enriched with nutrient solution and CO2 so that the algae have optimal growth conditions.
potential and opportunities
high efficiency
One of the great strengths of algae lies in their efficiency in terms of CO2 separation. In contrast to land plants, which only store around 0.5 to 1.5 percent of solar energy in the form of biomass, it is up to 10 percent for algae. In addition, algae can be grown on areas that are not suitable for food cultivation because they can use salt, brack or wastewater for their growth.
further processing of algae biomass
Another advantage of the algae biomass is its versatility. The biomass can be processed to extract valuable products such as bioenergy, dietary supplements, animal feed, cosmetics or chemicals. Thus, the algae biomass is not only a method of CO2 departure, but also a sustainable resource that has the potential to reduce dependencies on fossil raw materials.
challenges and limits
technological challenges
Although algae have an exceptional potential for CO2 separation, there are also a number of technological challenges. These include the high energy expenditure for the operation of the algae reactors, the algae harvest and the further processing of the biomass as well as the need to maintain optimal growth conditions for the algae.
economic aspects
From an economic point of view, the high costs for the implementation and operation of algae reactors are a challenge. Currently, the production costs for algae biomass are still so high that you cannot keep up with the prices for fossil products. Nevertheless, algae biotechnology has the potential to become economically attractive in the coming years, especially if the cost of the emission of CO2 increases and the use of fossil fuels becomes more expensive.
FAZIT
The CO2 separation by algae represents a promising technology that can contribute to solving the global CO2 problem. It offers high efficiency and versatility, coupled with positive ecological effects. Despite existing technological and economic challenges, there is potential to further optimize and spread algae biotechnology in the coming years. It could make an important contribution to achieving the climate goals.