Commercially scalable marine microalgae production for sustainable bioproducts
Duke University presents a sustainable marine microalgae cultivation system using open pond methods and direct air capture of CO2 to produce economically viable bioproducts. This innovative approach aims to achieve high productivities and commercial scalability.
Overview
Duke University is pioneering a commercially scalable marine microalgae cultivation system aimed at producing sustainable bioproducts. Utilizing open pond systems, the project leverages marine (non-freshwater) algae strains and a novel direct air capture (DAC) method for CO2 delivery. This setup is designed to be economically viable and environmentally friendly, offering a renewable feedstock for bio-based products. The initiative promises substantial productivity with low production costs, potentially achieving biocrude prices of less than $4 per gallon.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Marine microalgae strains: Grown in open ponds using natural sunlight and seawater, achieving productivities exceeding 25 g dry weight/m²/day.
- Direct air capture (DAC): A cost-competitive method that provides concentrated CO2, decoupling farm location from traditional CO2 sources, thus increasing site flexibility.
- Sustainability: Near 100% water recycling and the use of DAC CO2, which recycles existing atmospheric CO2, aligning with sustainability goals.
- Production scale: The system is validated at a >15,000 L scale, demonstrating commercial relevance and scalability.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 5, indicating that it has been validated in a relevant environment with an operational outdoor cultivation research facility. Future validation aims to sustain high productivity levels and deliver biomass for partner evaluation as a bio-based feedstock.
About Duke University
Duke University is a mid-sized, comprehensive private research university in Durham, North Carolina, anchored by a globally recognized academic medical center. Co-located campus and clinical facilities enable rapid bench-to-bedside translation, and shared core laboratories are accessible to external partners. Proximity to Research Triangle Park links Duke to a dense network of R&D-intensive companies, supported by centralized corporate engagement for sponsored research and talent pipelines. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, and DoD. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP strategy, licensing, startups, and industry collaboration.
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