Continuous Cyanobacteria Sensor
Project Overview
About
Continuous Cyanobacteria Sensor aims to make low-impact carbon removal a reality for emissions-heavy industries. By combining genetically modified cyanobacteria in sealed photobioreactors exposed to sunlight, the project efficiently converts CO2 from flue gas into carbon-dense biomass and lipids. With the 2022 IPCC report highlighting the need for a 43% reduction in global emissions by 2030 to limit global warming to 1.5°C, Continuous Cyanobacteria Sensor offers an eco-friendly solution with a net energy ratio of approximately 5%. The captured carbon can be transformed into stable, solid products, benefiting soil health and crop yields, aligning with circular economy principles.
Team
Daniel Rokadia
Loughborough University
I am a bioengineering undergraduate exploring how biological engineering can combat climate change. During my undergraduate placement at Cyanocapture, a biotech startup using cyanobacteria to capture CO2, I proposed a method for continuous growth analysis to enhance cyanobacterial cultivation efficiency. I designed a biosensor for continuous optical density measurement that does not require sample dilution. I have so far developed a prototype to test operating principles and am working towards a calibrated sensor for feasibility analysis. By improving the growth sensing, I hope to increase cultivation efficiency and in turn carbon capture.
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