2020 Virtual undergraduate Research symposium
Characterizing Biomass of Algae
PROJECT NUMBER: 8
AUTHOR: Emily Bournia, Chemical and Biological Engineering | MENTOR: Nanette Boyle, Chemical and Biological Engineering
ABSTRACT
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With increasing levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, it is important that we develop more sustainable sources of fuels and chemicals. By gaining a better understanding of the physiology of Chromochloris zofingiensis the Boyle lab will be able to develop a better mathematical model of the metabolism and growth of the cell. This project has the potential to use the lipids that are created by this algae as a more sustainable source of biofuel. In addition to this, the algae is able to create astaxanthin a valuable product that is used as a dietary supplement. This production of combined astaxanthin and lipids could make the growth of this algae on a large scale cost effective. Exploring the biomass compositions including lipids, chlorophyll, and proteins allows for a complete picture of how Chromochloris behaves under different conditions.
VISUAL PRESENTATION
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AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY
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Emily Bournia is a senior studying Chemical Engineering on the Biological Track with a Biomedical Engineering minor. She has been conducting research with the Boyle Group for a year and a half now focusing on obtaining biomass compositions and creating the protocols to do so. Having the opportunity to explore the world of research has helped her gain new insight into a new and exciting field.
Very interesting project. I would be really interested to learn more about the external costs of making and using such a product in real world applications.