Production of Biofuels Using Algal Biomass

Reduce CO₂ emissions by converting microalgae into biofuels and fertilizer mats!

Principal Investigator

- Assistant Prof.
  KANDA Hideki
  Graduate School of Engineering, Nagoya University
- Prof.
  Faizal Bux
  Durban University of Technology

ODA Recipient Country

Republic of South Africa

Research Institutions in Japan

Nagoya University / Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology / Aichi Shukutoku University

Research Institutions in Counterpart Country

Durban University of Technology / Ethekwini Municipality / The Agricultural Research Council / Technology Innovation Agency

Adoption fiscal year

FY 2015

Research Period

5 Years

Overview of the Research Project

Converting microalgae produced from sewage into fuel and fertilizer using new solvent extraction methods!
Although mass culture of CO₂-absorbing microalgae from sewage was successfully achieved in the Republic of South Africa, in order to convert these into fuel a drying process which uses fossil fuels is required, leading to a contradictory state in which the process actually increases net CO₂ emissions. To solve this problem, we are developing a fuel conversion (oil extraction) device that uses a new solvent known as liquefied DME, which we will install at the local site. Microalgae residue is mixed with wood chips and formed into mats, which are used as fertilizer. To ensure these technologies take root in the Republic of South Africa, we are also working to construct a sustainable environmental business model and train local personnel.

Reduction of CO₂ on a global scale using microalgae, which possess outstanding photosynthesis capabilities.
The new extractant allows conversion of microalgae to fuel in warm water at a temperature of less than 100°C. Furthermore, residue that has been converted to fertilizer can help enrich soil by recovering nitrogen and phosphorus from sewage. If the business model and personnel training methods related to these technologies can be expanded to other regions, this project has the potential to contribute to the improvement of the energy issues and the aquatic and geo-environment on a global scale.