Algae Photobioreactors by Nur Adania Nor Azman

Process overview

2025-10-23 03:19:34 UTC

The algae facade panels would require a source of CO2 to be fed.

The microalgae would be cultivated and grow in tubular panels, making use of sunlight for photosynthesis which produces heat and biomass.

Thermal energy and biomass generated can be harvested for biofuel, heat and other uses

After growth period is complete, the algal biomass is harvested and processed for energy, used onsite for geat or electricity or offsite for biofuel or bioproducts.

Positive of implementing algae photobioreactor in UTS building

2025-10-23 03:23:50 UTC

Algae absorbs CO2 when photosynthesising. A study showed that algae captures nearly 1 kg (0.907kg) of CO2 for every 0.453 kg of algae produced, thus would lower building emissions.

2025-10-23 03:26:21 UTC

Adding an algae photobioreactor (PBR) façade can provide some advantages and disadvantages to the built environment. From an environmental perspective, it can help to mitigate building carbon emissions through sequestered CO₂ as well as help with thermal regulation through shading and the heat exchange the algae provide. From an economical perspective, it can be costly to install and require some maintenance for cleaning the algae and monitoring its health, which would be much more daunting from an owner’s perspective for an older building. From a social perspective, the “living façade” aspect can help to promote awareness of sustainable design and education, but it can also present some public concerns over aesthetics along with reliability of the system. In the end, the benefits will have to outweigh the environmental, as well as economic and logistical, challenges.

Risk of Contamination

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Some algae (such as cyanobacteria) contain hepatotoxins and neurotoxins, which can be harmful to human health to an extent (Bell and Codd, 1994). Any damage or leakage could also cause odours.

2025-10-23 03:28:06 UTC

Social implications of adopting a PBR facade include: negative perception of algae as slime, green light from the panels are unattractive, concerns about health and safety and contamination through leaks.

Cost of production

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The cost of algae panels are way more expensive compared to other renewables, such as PV. This is understandable as the technology is still in its early stages of innovation and development. As this technology matures, the costs of production will fall. In comparison, 20 years ago, the PV market was much more expensive compared to alternative technologies available at the time and also less efficient.

In Australia, the goal for hospital façades is around AS $350 per m2, while the façade on the German building is approximately AS$ 3,300, nearly ten times more expensive.

Economical impact

2025-10-23 03:36:39 UTC

The economic payback period, the term in which the technology pays for itself, in years is unknown.
Capital value of algae buildings could be higher as it is a
unique technology.
There would be additional costs for design, construction and maintenance

Economic

2025-10-23 03:39:03 UTC

High capital and operating costs limit the production of algae photo bioreactors, although the new technology could bring more jobs.

controlling the risk of panel/seal failure & leakage

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engineering control: Use UV-stable, pressure-tested panels and seals

procedural control: regular inspections and preventive maintenance schedule

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EA stage 1 competencies

2.3 application of systematic engineering synthesis and design process - b) addresses broad contextual constraints (environmental) as integral part of design process
3.1 ethical conduct and professional accountability - environmental stewardship

ISO STANDARDS

ISO 14001 - improving environemental management systems
ISO 50001 - energy management - improving energy use through development of systems

Overheating in panels

2025-10-23 03:44:57 UTC

Overheating in panels can be resolved by adding cooling fans to the system and regulating the temperature of the panels.

It can be avoided procedurally by keeping the panels in the shade.

Positive environmental impacts

2025-10-23 03:45:46 UTC

In 2013, an algae building was built in Germany with 200m^2 of integrated photo bioreactors in 120 facade panels which generated algal biomass and heat, provided thermally controlled microclimate, shading. The algal biomass can be combusted for power and heat generation and be stored as well.

Cultivating microalgae photobioreactors require no additional land use and is not affected by weather conditions making it ideal for adaption in any location. The CO2 required for algae can be derived from nearby combustion process so optimal for net zero carbon emissions.

2025-10-23 03:46:06 UTC

Biomaterials like algae, seaweed, fungi, straw, and oyster shells reduce carbon emissions by storing CO₂, reuse industrial waste, and lower energy use compared to cement and steel. They promote circular resource use and biodiversity but face barriers such as high costs, limited certification, and slow commercial adoption.

In terms of SDGs

2025-10-23 03:46:36 UTC

SDG 12 for example as the produced biomass can be used and the energy released as well

-> less consumption of fossil fuels for heating eg

-> less production materials needed if substituted for biomass

Contamination

2025-10-23 03:47:33 UTC

Leaks and contamination may allow the release of algae which may contain heptatoxins and neurotoxins, which are harmful to human health.

To prevent this, seals and other components should be UV stable and pressure resistant to reduce the possibility of leaks. Furthermore, regular inspections and maintenance should be undertaken to detect any damage to equipment or leaks before they become a major health concern.