Biophysical model and techno-economic assessment of carbon sequestration by microalgal ponds in Indian coal based power plants

Abstract

The present study evaluated the carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration potential of Thalassiosira pseudonana using the influencing key climatic datasets of an Indian coal based power plant through a biophysical energy balance model developed on MATLAB platform with ODE45s solver. The maximum average areal biomass productivity was predicted to be 111.39 kg ha−1d−1 with maximum growth in February, leading to the CO2 capture of 147.03 kg ha−1d−1. Further, techno-economic analysis was performed utilizing the results of the formulated biophysical model to access the process feasibility using SuperPro designer. Results revealed the technical viability and economic feasibility of the process, with the unit production price of 58.41 $ per ton with a reasonable rate of returns and acceptable short payback time of 2.81 years. A yearly carbon credits of 52 M$ could be earned by the company. Sensitivity analysis showed the process to be highly dependent over the raw material prices and facility operation. The integrated site-specific biophysical model and economic analysis are essential to provide reliable realistic estimates of the algal carbon sequestration technology that could drive the energy policies towards sustainable development.