Design and analysis of microalgal open pond systems for the purpose of producing fuels: A subcontract report

Systems and economic analysis of microalgae ponds for conversion of CO{sub 2} to biomass. Quarterly technical progress report, September 1993--December 1993

“…The ASP also carried out a system analysis (Neenan et al, 1987), mainly addressing conversion of algal biomass to fuels, and supported a more detailed cost estimate of large-scale algae production on purified C02 and brackish waters (Weissman and Goebel, 1987). This study supported the earlier conclusion that, in principle, it is possible to produce microalgae in large-scale outdoor ponds at low cost.…”

“…With current fossil fuel costs ( < $lS/barrel), C02 mitigation costs would be about $40 to 70/ton, depending on the productivity assumption. This cost estimate (based on Benemann et al, 1978Benemann et al, ,1982and Weissman and Goebel, 1987), made numerous favorable assumptions about the engineering and biological aspects of such a system. For example, the growth ponds would be 10 ha "raceways", over ten times larger than current experience.…”

“…Such systems would provide over 3 million barrels of fuel per year. The assumptions and data on which (Benemann, 1993;based on Benemann et al, 1978based on Benemann et al, ,1982Weissman and Goebel, 1987 …”

Sustainability Research Project: Research of Suitable Locations, Design and Operation of Microalgae Production Plants for Biofuel’s

“…Organic carbon from wastewater is another form of carbon used for algae cultivation [10] The design of the carbonation system should take in account the size of the pond, number of carbonate systems and energy use. Pond size and/or the number of carbonation stations is determined by the carbon storage capacity of the water [26] (Weissman J. & Goebel R. 1987).…”

“…Carbonate systems require more depth than the growing conditions to operate efficiently so sumps must be constructed (1.2 to 1.5 mtr) to allow for this. Sumps are necessary in order to provide a deepened area for CO 2 additions so that high absorbtion is achieved, and to provide a collection point for draining the pond [26] (Weissman J. & Goebel R. 1987).…”