This SBIR Phase I project will develop a microalgae harvesting system for separating biomass from a water-based growth medium. Specifically, it will evaluate and model properties of several species of microalgae for removal and separation from a growth medium utilizing electrostatic properties and process. The broader/commercial impact of the proposed project will be to advance the state-of-the-art of separating and removing micro-algae from its growth medium and improving the efficiency of harvesting high energy content microalgae for biofuel. Further, it could provide an important step toward reducing the U.S. dependence on fossil fuels.
