Year: 2018
Type: article
Abstract: The aim of the study was to create a top-down model of a theoretical, full-scale microalgae-to-biogas production system with the help of the life cycle software GREET. The model was created for the purpose of calculating the energy balance and evaluate the energy performance of a defined algae product system, and the software and its applicability to the needs of the project employer was further evaluated. \n\nThe approach of a life cycle inventory study (LCI) was taken, and the inventory data was obtained from the literature as well as from previous findings within the project. The functional unit was defined as “the production of 1 MWh of biogas in a microalgae-to-biogas system” and the product system included the processes of microalgae cultivation, harvesting and biogas production through anaerobic digestion.\n\nFindings of the LCI study indicated that for the given set of process criteria, the energy going in to the system was higher than the energy coming out, hence causing the energy balance to be negative. However, further work with modelling different scenarios should be done in order to better understand and optimize the system.
Source: Theseus (Ammattikorkeakoulujen)
Author: Katrin Asplund
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2889020237