Gasification of Chlorella vulgaris for Syngas Production and Energy Generation Through Gas Turbine

The increasing need for sustainable energy sources has driven research toward innovative solutions, including biomass gasification for syngas production, with applications in the chemical industry and energy generation. This study explores the application of Chlorella vulgaris in the gasification process to produce syngas intended for gas turbine operation. Using Aspen Plus V11 (academic version) simulations, the study evaluates optimal process conditions and syngas yields, focusing on operational parameters such as the S/B ratio and gasifier temperature. Results show that a higher S/B ratio increases H2 and CO2 concentrations while reducing CO and CH4, with final syngas composition in dry conditions reaching 0.42 CO, 0.52 H2, and 0.036 H2O. Contaminants like H2S and HCl were effectively reduced below critical thresholds, with H2S levels under 20 ppm and HCl under 1 ppm to meet GT requirements. The system achieved a cold gas efficiency of 55% and an overall turbine cycle efficiency of 25%, with CO2 emissions of 0.198 kg per kWh produced. In conclusion, the gasification of C. vulgaris offers a promising and sustainable solution for syngas production and energy generation, with reduced environmental impacts. However, economic feasibility and certain technical challenges will require further advancements to fully realize this technology’s potential.