CO2 to hybrid microalgae fermentation for biobased lipids
Innovative CO2 conversion technology using VFAs for lipid-rich microalgae biomass production, enabling carbon-neutral biofuels and bioplastics. The process involves a patented reactor system converting CO2 into VFAs and then into valuable bioproducts through microalgae fermentation.
Overview
This solution leverages an innovative process to convert CO2 emissions into valuable bioproducts, including biofuels and bioplastics, using volatile fatty acids (VFAs) as a fermentation substrate. The patented process involves two key steps: conversion of CO2 into VFAs using a Trickle Electro Bed Reactor (TEBR), followed by the fermentation of VFAs into high-lipid biomass using Nannochloropsis microalgae. This approach addresses the need for sustainable, carbon-neutral alternatives to traditional biofuel production methods, avoiding reliance on agricultural resources like glucose.
Technical specifications
- CO2 Conversion: Utilizes a TEBR design for continuous 100% CO2 conversion to VFAs in a single pass.
- Biomass Production: Achieves high-productivity biomass with up to 400g/m2/d using Nannochloropsis sp., with a 70% enhanced lipid content.
- Microalgae Fermentation: Focuses on oleaginous strains to increase lipid and starch content, with current productivity at 220g/m2/d and 40% lipid content.
- Scale-Up Capabilities: Includes demo-scale facility deployments with bioreactors ranging from 1L to 100L, designed for scalability and continuous processing.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 4, with ongoing experiments aimed at improving lipid and starch content, and enhancing analytical methods for lipid and starch measurement. The next steps involve scaling up the fermentation process and further validation in a demo-scale facility.
About Solmeyea
Solmeyea is a biotechnology company that operates a patented platform to transform industrial CO2 emissions into high-value, carbon-negative bioproducts. Using proprietary white microalgae strains, the company’s vertical farming technology captures emissions at the source to produce sustainable ingredients, including protein-rich powders with complete amino-acid profiles, natural antioxidants, and lipids. By co-locating its modular, industrial-scale production units next to CO2-emitting industrial plants, Solmeyea minimizes logistics costs and energy requirements while converting waste into a circular resource. This process is significantly more efficient than conventional farming, requiring substantially less land and water while providing a scalable, climate-positive alternative to traditional feedstocks.
The company’s solutions target manufacturers in the food, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and bio-material sectors seeking sustainable, high-functionality ingredients. By enabling companies to utilize captured carbon to create feed and food products, Solmeyea helps its partners address regulatory pressures, improve ESG performance, and reduce their carbon footprint. Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Greece, the venture has received validation from various European programs and organizations, including EIT Food and Climate-KIC, and currently maintains pilot production capabilities to support its mission of enhancing global food security while promoting a circular bio-economy.
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