"The Membrane-Biofilm Photobioreactor (MBPR) for Biofuel Production from Waste CO₂"

 

Abstract

Algae grow more quickly when supplied with gaseous CO₂, yet an efficient and cost-effective means to supply CO₂ to algae is lacking. We propose using gas-permeable hollow-fiber membranes to deliver waste CO₂ to algal biofilms forming on the membrane surface. We call this the membrane-biofilm photobioreactor (MBPR), and it is ideal to convert waste CO₂ to biofuels and other valuable products. In this presentation, I will describe membrane-based biofilms and our most recent research on the MBPR. 

Biography

Rob Nerenberg is a professor in the Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering & Earth Sciences at the University of Notre Dame. His research addresses biofilm processes, primarily for water and wastewater treatment. He obtained his PhD from Northwestern University and is a recipient of the NSF CAREER award and the Paul L. Busch Award for innovation in water research.