In this research project, biofuel (biodiesel) is produced from microalgae while simultaneously treating oil-produced wastewater. Conversion of various biomass to cost-effective biofuels has been considered a potential solution to simultaneously meeting energy demand and wastewater treatment. Combining algae cultivation and wastewater treatment for biofuel production is considered a feasible way for resource utilization. Oil-produced water management is still a big challenge for oil-producing countries like the Sultanate of Oman.
Microalgae is a very promising source of biofuel, which reduces greenhouse concentrations by trapping atmospheric CO2 during photosynthesis. In this project, three microalgae species, chlorella, spirulina, and diatoms, are cultivated separately in tubular photobioreactors. Algae mass is harvested using the filtration method. Biodiesel’s physical properties like a flashpoint, fire point, viscosity, density, and calorific value will be analyzed using standard methods.
Major Objectives :
1) To produce biofuel using microalgae
2) To treat oil-produced wastewater using an algal-based photobioreactor
3) To characterize biofuel for its physical and chemical properties
Research Team:
Shima Al Mandhari (Team Leader)
Saliha Al Maamari (Team Member)
Dr S. V. Satyanarayana (Faculty mentor)