The Challenge
EIA21 participated in the FLEXIPHO R&D&I project, an initiative focused on developing new solutions for the sustainable production of microalgae biomass and industrially valuable compounds.
The objective of the project was to design a flexible photobioreactor (PBR) capable of integrating advanced lighting technologies and industrial gas treatment systems, maximizing microalgae cultivation performance and promoting the valorization of industrial emissions.
The initiative was aligned with circular economy, industrial decarbonization, and sustainable renewable raw material production strategies.
The development of microalgae-based technologies presents significant technical challenges related to cultivation efficiency, energy utilization, and integration with existing industrial processes.
Key project challenges included:
- Designing a flexible and scalable photobioreactor for different industrial applications.
- Optimizing microalgae growth conditions through advanced lighting technologies.
- Integrating industrial gas streams as a CO₂ source for cultivation.
- Improving the overall efficiency of biomass production processes.
- Promoting the production of high-value-added compounds from microalgae.
- Establishing a solid technological basis for future industrial and commercial applications.
The Solution
EIA21 developed the conceptual engineering of the system, defining the key technical and operational parameters required for future implementation of the technology.
The work included:
- Conceptual design of the flexible photobioreactor (PBR).
- Definition of process and operational criteria.
- Conceptual integration of advanced lighting systems.
- Evaluation of the use of industrial gas streams.
- Assessment of cultivation and biomass production configurations.
- Preliminary analysis of industrial implementation and scalability.
- Definition of the engineering basis for future development phases.
Results
- Development of the conceptual engineering for the FLEXIPHO system.
- Definition of an innovative solution for efficient microalgae cultivation.
- Integration of lighting technologies and industrial emissions valorization.
- Generation of knowledge applicable to future industrial developments based on microalgae biomass.
- Contribution to research in circular economy, sustainability, and carbon capture.
- Technical basis for the advancement of high-value biological production technologies.
