Techno-economic modelling of high-value metabolites and secondary products from microalgae cultivated in closed photobioreactors with supplementary lighting

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to develop an initial computational model to evaluate the techno-economic viability of high-value and secondary resources from microalgae. The isolation of high-value metabolites is the driving product to improve the overall economics. This approach will allow marketing secondary compounds at more competitive rates for applications such as biofuel, biomaterials, food or animal feed supplements. In this assessment, we consider cultivations in flat-panel, airlift and tubular closed photobioreactor [PBR] systems to avoid possible contamination and limit environmental exposures. The facilities are also equipped with supplementary LED lightings and temperature control to improve productivity. Based on the methodology described in this work, we evaluate the techno-economic viability of the suggested systems. A probable productivity range is selected based on the logistic growth with a recovery rate between 60% and 80%. The sensitivity analysis shows that the ratio of high-value metabolites is the most crucial factor determining the economics. Microalgae prices and productivities gain more importance at higher ratios. The sensitivity analyses indicate a low-level impact of productivity and cultivation costs on high priced metabolites.