Techno-Economic Analysis Of Ulva Spp. Cultivation for Capturing CO2 Emissions from Natural Gas Power Plants in Thailand
Master’s Thesis research on using macroalgae (Ulva spp.) cultivation as a carbon capture technology for natural gas power plants in Thailand, demonstrating 42.89% internal rate of return and significant environmental benefits.
Project Overview
This Master’s thesis research explores macroalgae, specifically Ulva spp., as a promising carbon capture technology with photosynthetic efficiencies 16.67% higher than terrestrial plantations. Using SuperPro Designer simulation, the study analyzed Ulva spp. cultivation for CO2 capture from a Rayong power plant’s flue gases.
Key Findings
- Optimal cultivation conditions yielded 29.90 ton/L/year biomass
- 42.89% internal rate of return demonstrating economic viability
- Significant potential for Thailand’s carbon sequestration strategy
- 16.67% higher photosynthetic efficiency compared to terrestrial plantations
Methodology
The research employed SuperPro Designer simulation to model the cultivation process and analyze the techno-economic feasibility of scaling Ulva spp. cultivation for commercial CO2 capture applications.
Impact
This research contributes to Thailand’s transition toward sustainable energy production by providing a viable solution for carbon capture from natural gas power plants, which account for 38.3% of CO2 emissions in Thailand’s energy sector.
Recognition
- Best Oral Presentation Award at TIChE2025 International Conference
- Published research findings in peer-reviewed conference proceedings