Theoretical Modeling of Algal Productivity and Carbon Capture Potential in Selected Places of Odisha, India

Abstract

Microalgae hold a promising potential for generating third-generation biofuel as well as for biological carbon sequestration. However, translation of algal technology to field scale is often hindered by a lack of appropriate data and economic challenges. Pertaining to these issues, a pre-estimate of the site-specific productivity of microalgae at realistic scenario is necessary. Five potential sites (Rourkela, Sambalpur, Bhubaneswar, Gopalpur and Balasore) in the Odisha state of India were chosen for predicting the average biomass, lipid productivity and carbon dioxide (CO2) capture capacity of microalgae. Meteorological data averaged over 21 years (Jan’ 1985–Dec’ 2005) were fed into the biophysical empirical equations for estimating the biomass and lipid productivity of microalgae along with the CO2 sequestration capacity. Maximum average biomass and lipid productivity was projected for Sambalpur, corresponding to an aerial value of 63.03 g/m2/day and 21.89 ml/m2/day, respectively, in the month of April with CO2 sequestration potential of 17.87 g/m2/day. Such preliminary site-specific theoretical estimates would facilitate policy making for realizing the potential of large-scale algal cultivation.