(13c) Scale up of Novel Algae Based Ccus Technology- a Multiscale Modeling and Optimization Framework

Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Sequestration (CCUS) is expected to play a pivotal role in global efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, particularly from hard-to-abate sectors such as cement, steel, and petrochemicals. Despite its potential, the commercial-scale deployment of CCUS technologies remains limited due to a complex interplay of economic, technological, and policy barriers [1].

One promising pathway to enhance the feasibility of CCUS is carbon valorization wherein the captured CO₂ is transformed into value-added products. This approach not only offsets the cost of carbon capture but also displaces fossil-derived chemicals and fuels, creating a dual benefit. Algae- based CCUS systems are a prime example of this concept, leveraging microalgae’s rapid growth and high CO₂ uptake to convert emissions into biomass, which can be further processed into biofuels, animal feed, nutraceuticals, or specialty chemicals.

In this presentation, we present our recent progress in building a holistic, multiscale framework to accelerate the development, scale-up, and evaluation of novel CCUS technologies. This framework is applied on an ongoing DOE project (DEFE-0032108) where a novel algae based CCUS technology is being developed. Our methodology integrates: 1) Process Modeling - We develop detailed physics-based, first-principle models to simulate the dynamic behavior of photobioreactor. This model enables the system to be interrogated under various operational conditions through scenario analyses. 2) Sensitivity and Uncertainty Analysis - Through sensitivity analysis, we identify the most influential parameters impacting system outputs, guiding experimental design, and prioritizing research efforts. [2] 3) Process Optimization and Control - We implement model predictive control strategies [3] to help the system maintain stability as well as improve the performance. 4) Techno-Economic Analysis (TEA) and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)- At the macroscale, we develop integrated TEA and LCA models [4] to evaluate the levelized cost of biomass production and associated environmental impacts. These assessments provide benchmarking against extant technologies as well as help in evaluating trade-offs between competing objectives.

References
[1] M. M. F. Hasan, M. S. Zantye, and M.-K. Kazi, “Challenges and opportunities in carbon capture, utilization and storage: A process systems engineering perspective,” Computers & Chemical Engineering, vol. 166, p. 107925, 2022.
[2] A. Kiparissides, S. Kucherenko, A. Mantalaris, and E. N. Pistikopoulos, “Global sensitivity analysis challenges in biological systems modeling,” Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, vol. 48, no. 15, pp. 7168–7180, 2009.
[3] E. N. Pistikopoulos, N. A. Diangelakis, R. Oberdieck, M. M. Papathanasiou, I. Nascu, and M. Sun, “Paroc—an integrated framework and software platform for the optimisation and advanced model-based control of process systems,” Chemical Engineering Science, vol. 136, pp. 115–138, 2015.
[4] A. Hugo and E. N. Pistikopoulos, “Environmentally conscious long-range planning and design of supply chain networks,” Journal of Cleaner Production, vol. 13, no. 15, pp. 1471–1491, 2005.