Low-cost bioproducts from filamentous microalgae using wastewater
Innovative low-cost production of algal biomass using filamentous microalgae cultivated in wastewater. This sustainable process converts biomass into biocrude oil or bioproducts, utilizing CO2 from wastewater. Technology is scalable and cost-effective, targeting commercial applications.
Overview
This solution leverages filamentous microalgae cultivated in wastewater to produce sustainable bioproducts at a significantly reduced cost. By utilizing waste nutrients and CO2 from wastewater treatment processes, this method provides a low-cost alternative for producing algal biomass. The biomass can be converted into biocrude oil or other bioproducts through hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) or fermentation, respectively. This innovative approach not only reduces production costs but also contributes to environmental sustainability by recycling waste materials.
Technical specifications
- Cultivation: Utilizes robust filamentous microalgal species in open raceway ponds.
- Productivity: Achieves over 60 dry metric tons per hectare annually.
- Cost efficiency: Reduces water and nutrient costs by using wastewater; recovers fertilizers.
- Harvesting: Low-cost, reliable methods for harvesting and dewatering algae.
- Conversion: Hydrothermal liquefaction converts biomass to biocrude oil.
- Sustainability: Favorable techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment.
Technology readiness level
The technology has reached Technology Readiness Level 5, indicating that it has been validated in relevant environments. Future validation plans include a 9-month scale-up demonstration to further establish commercial viability. The process is set to deliver significant quantities of algal biomass and HTL oil to industry partners for further analysis and development.
About MicroBio Engineering Inc.
MicroBio Engineering, Inc. is a biotechnology, consulting, and engineering firm specializing in microalgae systems. The company designs and constructs algae cultivation technology—including specialized raceway ponds, photobioreactors, and monitoring systems—to support research, wastewater reclamation, biofuel production, and the development of bioproducts like animal feeds. By combining multidisciplinary engineering with deep scientific expertise, the company bridges the gap between laboratory-scale research and commercial-scale deployment. Its technical capabilities include techno-economic modeling, lifecycle assessments, process design, and site selection, providing strategic guidance for clients seeking to utilize microalgae in circular economy applications.
MicroBio Engineering serves a diverse range of partners, including government institutions, public agencies, and industrial clients in sectors such as municipal, food processing, and industrial wastewater treatment. The company addresses critical challenges in water management and sustainable production through proprietary technologies like its RNEW and PURA wastewater treatment processes, which optimize nutrient removal and resource recovery. Founded in 2005, the organization draws on decades of foundational research in algal biotechnology to deliver evidence-based consulting and hardware solutions. By offering both high-performance research equipment and tailored facility designs, they assist customers in translating experimental visions into practical, operational realities.
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