⚡DevelopingCarbon Management • Carbon Utilization

Algae-Based Carbon Capture and Utilization

Algae-based carbon capture systems use photosynthetic microorganisms to absorb CO₂ from industrial emissions or atmosphere, converting it into biomass for biofuels, food, and chemicals with capture rates of 10-50 tons CO₂ per hectare daily. These systems achieve 90%+ CO₂ capture efficiency while producing valuable biomass products. Companies like Algae Systems and Origin Materials operate pilot facilities with costs targeting $100-300 per ton of CO₂ captured.

Important Considerations

Long-term storage verification and leakage concerns require monitoring. Public acceptance and regulatory framework still developing.

How It Works

Algae cultivation systems expose microalgae cultures to CO₂-rich gas streams in photobioreactors or open pond systems. Photosynthesis converts CO₂ and sunlight into algae biomass containing oils, proteins, and carbohydrates. Harvesting systems separate algae from growth medium using filtration, centrifugation, or flocculation methods. Processing converts algae biomass into biofuels, food ingredients, chemicals, or fertilizers.

Advantages

Provides both carbon capture and valuable product generation creating revenue streams, operates continuously with high growth rates and CO₂ conversion efficiency, and produces sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based products. Algae systems require minimal land use and can utilize waste water streams. The technology offers flexible deployment at industrial emission sources.

Challenges

High energy requirements for cultivation and processing systems, significant capital and operating costs for commercial-scale facilities, and technical challenges with algae harvesting and processing. Product markets for algae-derived materials are still developing. Competition from declining costs of other carbon capture technologies.