Cultures of microalgae for the production of bioenergy and bioproducts

In a continuing effort to reduce emissions of greenhouse gas emissions, remediation C02 industrial and environmental conservation, mobilizing new resources for the production of bioenergy and bioproducts is being ignored. Moreover, the coastal wetlands of southern France have an ecosystem and an environment particularly favorable to the development of seaweed farming: large areas mobilized and historical activity of salt production in search of conversion (Salins du Midi), largest pool CO2 production industry around (Fos sur mer) and natural presence of highly recoverable microalgae (Dunaliella salina). Based on this assertion, the project aims Salinalgue culture of native microalgae (Dunaliella salina) large-scale environment of open and undeveloped salt refinery to market different bioproducts including a next generation biofuel with high performance in terms of production yield per hectare and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs). Molecules with high added value (Beta-Carotene, Omega 3 ...) will also recovered from the microalgae, as well as protein for aquaculture feeds as alternatives to fishmeal. Dunaliella salina (DS) is a species of native microalgae that grows spontaneously and preferentially in the very salty lagoon environments. The project includes a thorough study of the microalgae in order to master its culture and harvesting in the open. In addition the project is interested in biorefinery DS; the objective is to explore and experiment with the extraction of compounds contained in the full value for microalgae biomass produced. Following a Go / NoGo, a phase of experimentation at the scale demonstration will be conducted to validate the technical and economic feasibility of any pre-industrial chain of production: cultivation (10 ha demonstration), harvesting, extraction, recovery. At the end of the project a progressive industrialization on 6000ha is planned from 2015. To ensure the success of environmental and industrial creation of this new industry, based on Salinalgue many strengths: a sound scientific basis and consistent (ANR and bibliography provided very DS), scientific excellence through partners consortium, the study of bioremédiation1 C02 industriel2, innovations in key locks (cultivation, harvesting and extraction), minimizing environmental impact (analysis of life cycle) and finally finding a balance of economic sector with production costs minimized (open basins) and a complete recovery of microalgae (biorefinery concept). Finally, the maintenance of biodiversity and activity on the coastal wetlands that are the salt is also a major interest and strengths of the project.
Environmental sustainability, economic sustainability and social sustainability, are the three pillars of the project SALINALGUE. This project was approved in October 2009.