The use of solar drying in microalgae
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Necton has acquired a Black Block® Hybrid Solar Dryer in May 2020 and has been ever since, developing methods to efficiently dry microalgae pastes. Necton has learned that several factors affect the drying process, including not only environmental factors, but also internal factors such as the biomass characteristics (microalgae species, paste concentration, etc.). The most efficient drying method identified so far was placing the biomass on top of an elevated grid, thus allowing the strong air flow on the system to pass above and below the biomass. With such approach, it is possible to dry frozen solid microalgal pastes in just over 24 hours during winter, which is approximately half of the duration time and energy costs of the freeze drying. Moreover, preliminary biochemical analysis indicate that the fatty acids are not affected by the solar drying, suggesting that this is a very promising drying method. Nevertheless, further analyses are needed to validate the use of solar drying as a high-quality, sustainable and efficient drying method.
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ProFuture
Ongoing | 2019-2023
- Main funding source
- Horizon 2020 (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Spain