Towards microalgal triglycerides in the commodity markets.

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Renewable Energy
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Microalgal triglycerides (TAGs) are a promising sustainable feedstock for industries.
• Techno-economic studies are crucial for research prioritization and business decisions.
• This study analyzes a two-step TAG production process for a 100-ha plant in southern Spain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a techno-economic analysis of microalgal TAG production.
• To identify key parameters for reducing production costs.
• To establish a roadmap for cost-effective microalgal biomass production.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a two-step TAG production model with continuous growth and batch stress reactors.
• Established a base case using outdoor pilot-scale data and current technology.
• Simulated various scenarios based on biological and technological advancements.

Main Results:

• Base case production cost is 6.7 €/kg biomass (24% TAG).
• Increasing photosynthetic efficiency offers the most significant cost reduction (30-14%).
• Reducing cooling requirements can decrease costs by 10-4.5%.

Conclusions:

• Microalgal TAGs are not yet cost-competitive with current market values.
• Cost-competitiveness depends on whole biomass valorization and cheaper photobioreactor (PBR) designs.
• Future research should focus on PBRs that avoid active cooling and utilize water basins for temperature regulation.