PROJECT CHLORSOROCO2: Utilizing Chlorella sorokiniana in Integrated Lab-scale Aquarium-Photobioreactor for Carbon Dioxide Biofiltration

Proponent/s Name/s (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Leinard Andree P. Calacal, University of the CordillerasFollow
Thea Alecza D. Alvaro, University of the CordillerasFollow
Jaebe Uriel S. Chicay, University of the CordillerasFollow
Angel Chen A. CrosbyFollow
Merea Duvadilan B. Gabasa, University of the CordillerasFollow
Blessie Nicole B. Reyes, University of the CordillerasFollow
Chloie Mae A. Mayaen, University of the CordillerasFollow

Document Types

Paper Presentation

School Name

University of the Cordilleras

Track or Strand

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

James, Nikah Mei I.

Start Date

23-6-2025 1:30 PM

End Date

23-6-2025 3:00 PM

Zoom Link/ Room Assignment

EKR 404

Abstract/Executive Summary

Climate change has been a global threat that impacts each country's community, economy, and ecological processes, and the main powerhouse of such calamity is the greenhouse gas—carbon dioxide (CO₂). In the Philippines, the increasing concentrations of CO₂ due to climate change has raised concerns that affected human welfare and the environment, highlighting the need for innovation. The study aims to provide valuable insights regarding the integration of the microalgae Chlorella sorokiniana, a green freshwater microalgae known for its high photosynthetic rate and CO₂ fixation efficiency, in an Aquarium-Photobioreactor (A-PBR) to contribute in opening CO₂ sequestration for practicality and cost-effectiveness. Experimental results reveal a significant CO₂ flow rate reduction, from 1.48 kg/cm² to 1.2 kg/cm² within four hours, due to Chlorella sorokiniana’s active photosynthetic activity. Simultaneously, a decline of pH level from 8 to 6 was also evident, signifying the absorption of CO₂ within the water. Thus, turning the CO₂ input into carbonic acid temporarily when it enters the medium, then dispersing into the medium as free CO₂, typically occurring when CO₂ is introduced at a rate exceeding the microalgae's absorption capacity within small durations. Nevertheless, these findings highlight the promising role of Chlorella sorokiniana in addressing carbon emissions while maintaining feasibility for large-scale applications.

Keywords

Chlorella sorokiniana; aquarium-photobioreactor; carbon dioxide biofiltration; carbon dioxide; microalgae

Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)

Sustainability, Environment, and Energy (SEE)

Initial Consent for Publication

yes

Statement of Originality

yes