Optimization of advanced bio-based carbon capture and utilization system through technological development and comparison

Algae-based biological carbon capture and utilization (Bio-CCU) systems represent a promising approach to reduce atmospheric CO2 concentrations while generating valuable bio-products. The study presents and investigates the optimization of an advanced algal photobioreactor (aPBR), through the development and performance comparison of different technological configurations. Three different configurations were studied and compared in terms of CO2 capture efficiency. The configurations differ in terms of key design and operational variables. The results highlight the influence of technological aspects on key parameters of system efficiency and productivity. The CO2 detected removal efficiencies ranged from 81% to 92%, depending on the technological setup, with the lighting system (in particular the use of purple LEDs) and the presence of a membrane-based harvesting unit emerging as the most influential variables affecting CO2 bio-fixation performance. The research demonstrates the potential of Bio-CCU technologies to contribute to climate emergencies, circular economy objectives and bioenergy production.