College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Electrical Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Engineering
Department - Author 2
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Electrical Engineering
Date
6-2020
Primary Advisor
Dean Y. Arakaki, College of Engineering, Electrical Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
The search for sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels proves necessary due to the effects fossil fuels have on Earth’s environment. These alternatives must have a minimum ecological footprint and cause no long-term harm to the environment. An environmentally friendly fuel is necessary to usher in a generation of renewable green energy.
The production of algae refined biofuels becomes a possible solution to this growing issue. Algae absorb CO2from the atmosphere during their reproduction and growth cycles, yielding a positive environmental impact. As the biofuel is refined and becomes suitable for use, the combustion of the finished fuel generates an equal amount of CO2. Thus, yielding a net zero environmental impact.
Algae biofuel is fabricated from the intracellular materials of algae cells. This report describes the application of pulsed electric fields (PEF) to algae for intracellular extraction. PEF treatments rupture the algae cell membrane allowing a centrifuge to extract lipid-rich contents from the interior cell.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/eesp/502