"Engineering Planktonic and Biofilm Microalgae Systems For Productivity" by Dallin Chugg

Date of Award

5-2025

Degree Type

Report

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biological Engineering

Committee Chair(s)

Ronald C. Sims (Committee Chair)

Committee

Ronald C. Sims

Committee

Charles Miller

Committee

Luguang Wang

Abstract

Microalgae cultivation offers dual benefits as an effective wastewater treatment method and a sustainable source of valuable bioproducts, such as biofuels, bioplastics, and feedstocks. This approach supports sustainability by transforming waste into high-value products while minimizing environmental impact. However, scaling microalgae cultivation to industrial levels presents significant challenges, particularly in optimizing harvesting efficiency, reducing mixing and transport costs, and managing large water requirements.

This report compares the productivity, scalability, cost, and energy requirements of two primary cultivation systems: planktonic and biofilm. Planktonic systems, such as open raceway ponds (ORPs), excel in light distribution and nutrient uptake due to continuous mixing, promoting high growth rates. In contrast, biofilm systems are more resource-efficient, using less water and energy while maintaining stable multi-species communities that enhance resilience. This review highlights the importance of addressing key scalability challenges and optimizing system designs. Field-scale studies are essential to advance industrial microalgae cultivation, making it a viable solution for both wastewater treatment and renewable resource generation.

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