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A pilot scale photobioreactor at the CSIR Modderfontein campus containing an algal species that has demonstrated good potential as a biodiesel producer
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Ongoing research into microalgae for biodiesel shows that this technology offers the best natural solution to current energy and environmental challenges.
CSIR researchers are currently focusing on bioprospecting microalgae that produce lipids from all South African environments and have propagated the samples in a controlled environment that resulted in some 300 algal isolates of which about 80 produce lipids. Processes are being developed that will ultimately see some of these isolates implemented in industry to produce bio-oils.
Looking further ahead, the implementation of algal biofuel also has other benefits for developing nations such as skills development, job creation and socio-economic improvement.
In another project, researchers are developing an integrated process for the production of algal biodiesel that includes the use of waste substrates (CO2 waste water). The research will eventually be scaled up to growing algae in small-scale ponds, which will lead to a pilot project of a plant of one hectare where various technology adoption models will be investigated.
Breakthroughs in this area could contribute to the country's commitment to reduce its carbon emissions. It is expected that this technology will revolutionise energy delivery to small communities, thus boosting the subsistence sector of the economy by enabling value-added activities in agriculture and aquaculture. It is also envisaged that the CSIR will be the hub for algal research and will play a key role in facilitating wider roll-out of this technology into Africa and internationally.
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