WP OBJECTIVES
This WP covers pilot scale demonstration activities in three areas:
1. Integration and demonstration of the fermenting micro-organism discovered in WP2. For the fermentation a new 2m³ fermentation system will be build in connection with the existing pilot plant at BioGasol.
2. Establish a small-scale pilot/demonstration unit for the production of cellulose nano fibres (Power Fibre, POF). With this demonstration line in place it is possible to produce various types of microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) on Kg-scale. Moreover, it will enable demonstrating large-scale feasibility of important process steps (freezing, drying), getting more information about the interactions of the steps and offering the opportunity to establish and test all possible procedures for saving energy.
3. Algae production and conversion to EPA/DHA (respectively Eicosapentaenoic acid and Docosahexaenoic acid). The objectives are to pilot the cultivation of the microalgae process over a period of 12 months and to test extraction methods.

WP ACTIVITIES
1. The fermentation activities will consist of the following phases:

a. Construction: The reactor system and the connected utilities will be designed according to the specific requirements of the organisms determined in WP2.
b. Optimisation of existing continues pre-treatment: When available, the optimisation will also focus on the special requirements for the fermenting organisms.
c. Integration: The new fermentation process is incorporated in the excising plant.
d. Optimisation of the new integrated process: The fermentation optimisation will focus on optimising product yield, productivity and concentration.
 

2. The nano-fibres activities will consist of the following phases:

a. Optimisation of pre-treatment step: Optimisation of the pre-treatment step (refining or alternatives) of cellulose related to energy input and quality of the end product.
b. Development of improved fibrillation technology: Combination and test of the best available high-pressure technology for large volumes (intensifier pumps) with the best dispersion head (e.g. jet-impact, emulsification cell) in order to reach energy optimal efficiency and invest/capacity ratio.
c. Development of improved freeze-drying technology: Development of freezing technology with focus on optimal application of the power fibre dispersion and definition of the optimal freezing conditions in order to get the best possible ice crystal structure to maintain the integrity of the fibril web at the most economic conditions.
d. Overall process optimisation.
e. Demonstration
 

3. Algae production and conversion to EPA/DHA:

a. Several microalgae strains will be analysed in order to find the most suitable for mass production, content of EPA/DHA and β-glucans. The three most suitable strains will be cultivated in photobioreactors until they are ready for harvest. The production will involve a small pilot trial over a period of 12 months to test the cultivation of the algae and to register the variation in production conditions due to seasonal and climate differences.
 

WP EXPECTED RESULTS
1. Fermentation.

a. Optimised continuous pre-treatment fulfilling the requirements for the new fermenting organisms.
b. A fully integrated and optimised fermentation process in 2m3 reactors according to the parameters delivered found in WP2.

2. Nano-fibres.

a. Specification of process and equipment for optimised pre-treatment step for improved fibrillation and drying technology and for all unit operations and overall process.

3. Algae production.

a. Summary report with recommendations regarding technical and business potential.