KaWertAl
Development of a process for the recovery of valuable substances from microalgae based on hydrodynamic cavitation
Microalgae play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle. They conduct photosynthesis and are characterized by rapid growth, efficiently converting carbon dioxide. Microalgae have recently gained interest as a resource for the production of climate-neutral biofuels as well as biomolecules, particularly for the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and cosmetics industries. However, the disruption of the cells and therewith the access to the valuable substances remains highly energy-intensive, posing a significant cost barrier that limits the utilization of microalgae.
Hydrodynamic cavitation is a promising technology that can disrupt cell walls without mechanically moving parts. By forcing suspensions with microalgae through constrictions, vapor pressures drop locally below the fluid's threshold, forming cavitation bubbles. Subsequent implosion of these bubbles at higher-pressure zones generates strong shockwaves that destroy the cell wall integrity.
The project aims to demonstrate the disruption of microalgae using hydrodynamic cavitation, followed by valuable substance separation through suitable extraction methods. Cell disruption will be integrated into an overall process involving biomass separation and substance recovery, facilitating an evaluation of the entire process. The goal is to prove its advantages and better economic viability compared to conventional technologies.
Figure: The green algae Chromochloris zoofingensis can be used for the extraction of carotenoids
Contact Person: Dipl.-Ing. Silas Ehrlich
Project Partner: PUEVIT GmbH, Dresden
Project Duration: 01/2025 - 12/2027
Funding: EFRE/JTF-Technologieförderung 2021-2027, European Union and the Free State of Saxony