Biophotonic Combined Energy System (BCES)

Abstract

A comprehensive outline of a new approach in closed loop processing for energy utilisation and biomass genera tion using micro algae for electricity, heat and chemicals is presented - the Biophotonic Combined Energy System (BCES). The basic idea proposes that life-cycle management is an es sential strategy in research and business. In terms of the BCES a carbon cycle driven by solar radiation via the photosystems of the Chlorophyceae species Scenedesmus rubescens serves as the core process from which valuable materials are extracted. The resi dues serve as the substrate for biogas generation which is used to run a Combined Heat and Power Plant (CHP) equipped with a gas motor and an exhaust gas carbon dioxide and heat recovery system. The electricity generated is fed into the public grid and the thermal energy is used to make the right temperature for the micro algae suspension. The carbon dioxide from biogas combus tion is injected into the algae suspension thereby closing the elementary loop within the system.