Scaling-up Microalgae Production Systems: Inferring Biomass Productivity in Raceway Ponds Using Numerical Simulation

摘要

Microalgae have long been identified as promising candidates for biofuel production. In comparison to conventional oil crops, they are independent from arable land and fresh water and can accumulate an array of useful by-products for the food, cosmetics or pharmaceutical industry. In addition, lab- and pilot-scale experiments have shown that many microalgae species can grow orders of magnitude faster than conventional oil crops. The main commercial applications of microalgae so far have been concerned with high-value products, including carotenoids and omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids [4]. In contrast, the commercial viability of using microalgae for biofuel production is still uncertain and calls for the development of large-scale outdoor raceway ponds to bring down production costs [6].