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Benjamin A. Spott
Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering
Washington University in St. Louis
Advisor: Professor Richard Axelbaum
Abstract
Coal is used to generate about half of the electricity worldwide and is one of the biggest known contributors to green house gas (GHG) emissions. Global climate change has become a widely accepted phenomenon. With no viable energy alternatives available to replace coals substantial electricity generation contribution, means to reduce GHG emissions have been sought. Algae have been studied as a way to utilize the large amounts of CO2 in coal flue gas. Algae have the ability to grow with flue gas and mitigate CO2 emissions. Conversion of algae biomass derived in this way allows for an efficient means of biofuel production. In addition, algae have the ability to utilize the wastewater from various sources as a nutrient feed. Photobioreactors allow for careful study of algal growth under varying parameters and can help to lay the groundwork for future commercial scale application of biomitigation of the CO2 in flue gas.
Benjamin Spott is currently working on a Master of Engineering in energy, environmental & chemical engineering at Washington University in St. Louis. He will graduate in May 2011 and hopes to pursue a career in environmental consulting. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology from Kent State University, where he graduated cum laude and was named the 2009 Homecoming King. Benjamin is from Cleveland, Ohio and has an older brother and a younger sister.
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