Third Generation Bio-Ethanol with Algae
Second generation Bio-Ethanol offers great option which addresses morality issues and also come with better economics. Despite its attractive non-edible feedstock, it is debated that the land used to plant these energy crops can be used for food. Furthermore, the main obstacle of this generation is the sugar locking lignin, which effective deconstruction methods are still undergoing research. This gave rise to the usage of Third Generation Bio-ethanol feedstock, algae. Since algae can be cultured on non-arable land, this will not compete land with food crops. Algae carbohydrate content can weigh as much as 70% of dry weight. Algae are well-known for its high tolerance with harsh environmental conditions, and high rate of reproduction. Many studies are focusing on bio-diesel production from micro-algae. There are some macro-algae and seaweeds which contain high amount of carbohydrate which have this potential for bio-ethanol production.
Future with Third Generation Bio-Ethanol
Seaweed à Bio-Ethanol is a new way of thinking in this field. Similar to second generation bio-ethanol which is produce by using biomass, it is almost carbon neutral and renewable. Cultivation of macro-algae does not need soil and arable land; in fact, macro-algae can live in saline condition. This means that it does not compete for resources such as land, fresh water and fertilizer with other food crops. This prevents deforestation as people may cut down trees in the process of producing fuel. Seaweed can also be produced in a large amount as it can be harvested more than 5 times per year. Seaweed also thrives well in saline water with little sunlight and need simple nutrients which is provided by the sea water. This characteristic improves the sustainability of third generation bio-ethanol.
However we must define the core problems such as looking for suitable species which contains high amount of carbohydrate naturally. Impact analysis will need to be studied for the geological and ecological environment when it is produce at a large scale offshore. As some macro-algae grow well in saline condition, suitable location offshore farm may need to be constructed. Optimum conditions for macro-algae will be difficult to maintain if it is growth is at offshore and exposed in an open area. Offshore farm has to be kept away from shipping and fishing area, as farms may be prone to pollution and also affected by the lost of marine life. Detailed planning for effective harvesting as well as transportation of algae to refinery with least amount of energy used will have positive impact on the net energy balance.
As this latest generation of bio-ethanol production is new, it may take some time before it can be adopted commercially. Advances in genetic engineering and a better breed of macro-algae as well as best deriving method are features that are needed to optimize fuel production. The potential and prospective of micro-algae playing a part as sustainable energy provider can be reality.
Algae Bio-Ethanol
Bio-Ethanol from algae’s starch and cellulose is an alternative feedstock for the growing bio-fuel demand. It’s not difficult to make ethanol from algae, with 3 simple steps. Decomposition Fermentation Separation
Decomposition, the biomass is treated so that cell walls are rupture, releasing carbohydrates. This decayed biomass is when fermented with yeast into carbon dioxide and ethanol. Carbon dioxide is used as algae feedstock. Separation of Bio-ethanol from the mixture, Bio-ethanol is obtain is these processes.
