Techno-economic analysis of ash removal in biomass harvested from algal turf scrubbers

摘要: Abstract Large-scale microalgae cultivation for biodiesel production is expected to be performed utilizing open air growth infrastructure that will inherently introduce ash into the system. High biomass represents a significant challenge of biofuel as it increases processing capital and operational costs. This study assesses economic viability pretreatment remove from grown with an algal turf scrubber (ATS). An engineering process model was developed based on ATS system followed by removal conversion fuels through hydrothermal liquefaction. The validated literature data processes experimental 14 de-ashing using water washing or alkaline extraction. integrated techno-economic modeling investigate impact fuel selling prices. Capital costs associated doubled content increased 0% 70%, increasing price 21%. Integrating resulted in reduced (14–42%) reduction total mass processed. However, only washes scenarios at 25 °C 50 °C were found reduce overall price, extraction showing increase. Operational expenses including wastewater treatment, chemical costs, heating slurry significantly increase 17–92% depending scenario.