INTEGRATION OF MICROALGAE TECHNOLOGY, ALKALINE SCRUBBER, AND IoT IN THE CARBON BLOOM SYSTEM FOR EMISSION CONTROL AND RENEWABLE ENERGY PRODUCTION
Abstract. The modern industrial sector is recognized as one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas (GHG) pollutant release, primarily through factory boiler stacks that emit carbon dioxide (CO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and sulfur oxides (SOₓ) in particulate form. Conventional emission control technologies are generally effective in capturing particulates but are associated with high operational costs and do not fully address the principles of environmental sustainability. In response to these challenges, CARBON BLOOM is introduced as an innovative integrated biofilter unit utilizing microalgae to directly capture industrial flue gas output and convert them into renewable energy in the form of biodiesel. The system employs vertical photobioreactors containing microalgae species such as Chlorococcum sp., Chlorella sp., and Scenedesmus sp., which exhibit high capacities for absorbing CO₂ and NOₓ through photosynthesis. To mitigate the inhibitory effects of SOₓ on microalgae growth, the system incorporates a sulfur dioxide isolation unit based on an alkaline scrubber. Furthermore, Internet of Things (IoT)-based sensors are implemented for real-time monitoring and optimization of operational stability and efficiency. The resulting microalgal biomass can be harvested every 16 days and subsequently converted into biodiesel through extraction and transesterification processes. This dual function emission capture and energy production demonstrates the potential of CARBON BLOOM to serve as a sustainable and economically viable solution for emission control and industrial flue gas management. Accordingly, this innovation contributes significantly toward addressing environmental challenges and supporting the transition to low-carbon industry practices.
Baca juga : Drama Jaka Tarub Ala Swiss Jadi Hiburan Pamungkas Di Wisuda BIPA KBRI Bern
Keywords: Microalgae, GHG, Photobioreactor, IoT, Scrubber
Introduction
Industrialization in developing countries like Indonesia is a key driver of economic growth, yet it also contributes significantly to environmental degradation through GHG emissions. Emissions from industrial boilers contain CO₂, NOₓ, and SOₓ, which harm air quality and intensify climate change. Existing technologies are either costly or ineffective in managing gaseous pollutants. Thus, a sustainable, integrated solution is needed.
Concept of CARBON BLOOM
CARBON BLOOM is designed to directly connect to industrial chimney stacks, integrating a heat exchanger, compressor, alkaline scrubber, and microalgae-based photobioreactor. The heat exchanger regulates flue gas temperature, while the scrubber removes SOₓ before gases are introduced into the photobioreactor. Microalgae absorb CO₂ and NOₓ, converting them into biomass, while IoT sensors manage operational parameters such as temperature, pH, CO₂ concentration, and light intensity.
Microalgae Cultivation and Gas Absorption
Microalgae were cultivated using sterilized Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) as the culture medium. Optimal growth conditions were maintained (25–30°C, pH 6.5–8, aeration rate 2–3 L/min). The system supports 7–10 days of cultivation before the biomass is utilized for gas filtration. CO₂ dissolves into the medium and is used in photosynthesis, while NOₓ is transformed into nitrate/nitrite for nutrient uptake.
Photobioreactor Design
Two photobioreactor configurations were developed: a vertical tubular system and a tray-based system. Both systems include fine diffusers for uniform gas dispersion and LED lighting for photosynthetic efficiency. Tray-based designs also employ a sprayer system to facilitate NOₓ and CO₂ solubilization. IoT sensors (MQ-135, DS18B20, BH1750, etc.) continuously monitor environmental variables to maximize biomass output.
SOₓ Pre-Treatment System
Before flue gas enters the bioreactor, SOₓ must be removed to protect microalgae from oxidative stress. The gas is first cooled, compressed, and directed into a scrubber where it reacts with alkaline solutions (NaOH or Ca(OH)₂), forming safe compounds like sodium sulfate or calcium sulfate. This step ensures that the bioreactor receives gas within biologically tolerable limits.
Biomass Conversion to Biodiesel
Harvested biomass is centrifuged and oven-dried at 60°C for 12 hours. Lipids are extracted using hexane, followed by solvent recovery. The extracted oil undergoes transesterification with methanol and KOH catalyst at 60°C for 1–2 hours, producing biodiesel and glycerol. The biodiesel is then purified via water washing, resulting in a clean-burning biofuel suitable for diesel engines.
Conclusion
CARBON BLOOM demonstrates a viable model for integrating emission control, renewable fuel production, and environmental remediation. By leveraging microalgae and IoT technology, the system reduces CO₂ and NOₓ emissions while generating valuable biodiesel. Its scientific foundation, real-time monitoring capability, and scalable design make it a promising solution for industrial decarbonization and sustainable energy transitions.
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