Project R-15361

Amphiphilic proteins for the Efficient Recovery of microalgae biomass using metal-free flotation Technology (Research)

Microalgae are a promising renewable source of high-value products and additives, however, economic constraints hinder their widespread application in biorefineries. This project aims to create protein-based coagulants to enhance the efficiency of dissolved air flotation, while producing biomass free from metal ion contamination, an innovation that would unlock the potential of bioalgal cultivation for a broad range of applications. The research will focus on amphiphilic proteins, which exhibit high affinity to algal cell surfaces and can improve flotation without contaminating the biomass. The project will be divided into four work packages: designing and synthesising peptidebased amphiphiles, expressing and purifying amphiphilic proteins, validating protein-based flocculants, and determining the effect of dissolved algal organic matter on separation efficiency. The novelty of this project lies in developing a sustainable flocculation agent that does not contaminate the isolated biomass, paving the way for more sustainable biorefinery solutions.

01 November 2024 - 31 October 2028