Modeling microalgae cultivation productivities in different geographic locations - estimation method for idealized photobioreactors.

Microalgae can be used to produce versatile high-value fuels, such as methane, biodiesel, ethanol, or hydrogen gas. One of the most important factors that influence the economics of microalgae cultivation is the primary production of biomass per unit area. This is determined by productivity rates during cultivation, which are influenced by the local climate conditions (solar irradiation, temperature).

Microalgae and terrestrial biomass as source for fuels--a process view.

Due to increasing oil prices and climate change concerns, biofuels have become more important as potential alternative energy sources. It is an open question which kind of biofuels with which yield potentials, characteristic properties and environmental consequences should give the largest contributions. Microalgae offer novel aquatic biomass systems with higher fuel yield potential and lower water demand than terrestrial biomass.