Evaluation of a Benchmark Model of Microalgae productivity towards Global Implementation

Abstract

As climate change is better understood, numerous studies have identified technologies to help mitigate the negative effects of excess atmospheric carbon dioxide. Among these net negative carbon footprint technologies is marine microalgae, which has zero freshwater and arable land requirements and utilizes resources efficiently. This study assessed the fidelity of a benchmark algae production model in an effort to provide tools to optimize and expand this new source of sustainable fuels, feed and food. When comparing model estimations to real values, we found that this model consistently overestimated the algae biomass values even when accounting for key abiotic factors such as temperature, pH, and sunlight. The main assumptions of the model that were violated were maximum growth indicator, algae efficiency, and carbon to nitrogen ratio. Further studies are needed to find ways to make the model more accurate to predict biomass.