Harmonized algal biofuel life cycle assessment studies enable direct process train comparison

摘要: Abstract The conclusions from life cycle assessment of algal biofuels (e.g., biodiesel, renewable diesel) vary significantly due to both modeling and inherent technological uncertainties. uncertainties US-based production were investigated by eliminating uncertainty via comprehensive harmonization through a meta-analysis. Following harmonization, the cumulative fossil energy consumption (MJ/MJ), global warming potential (g CO2-eq/MJ) water (m3/MJ) different biofuel process trains stochastic model. By focusing on differences current technologies, this study identified (1) in impact results between (i.e., combinations technology choices along fuel cycle), (2) high hotspots, (3) possible low trains, all which are crucial further improve sustainability biofuels. median (range) values three indicators for most common biodiesel train 3.5 (2.9–4.2) MJ/MJ, 99 (55–151) g CO2-eq/MJ 0.08 (0.07–0.09) m3/MJ, with corresponding inter-quartile ranges being 63%, 46% 43% less than literature values, respectively. algae diesel 1.7 (1.4–2.2) 84 (60–112) 0.04 (0.03–0.05) reductions range 83%, 83% 84%, Although neither met mandatory thresholds Renewable Fuel Standard (45 g CO2-eq/MJ), it is meet requirement integrating options into trains.