Use of double-glazed window as a photobioreactor for CO2 removal from air

Abstract

The important issue of increasing CO2 emissions to the atmosphere requires developing the environmentally sustainable strategies. One of the most innovative approaches in building design is using the microalgae photobioreactor (PBR) façades. In the current research, performance of a new green window was examined as an environmentally friendly method for the noted purpose. This window is a double-glazed window wherein the space enclosed by its two glasses was used as a PBR system. This window was investigated in two different conditions, namely as a window installed in a wall opening as a building façade element and also in laboratory condition. The experiments of the former condition were performed in Tehran city, where is known for the greatest air-polluted city in Iran, while tests of the later were carried out in Bablosar city located in northern Iran. Experiments include measuring absorption amounts of CO2, temperature, optical density of cultivation medium, and evaporation. The obtained results validate performance of the proposed green window in decreasing CO2 amounts. It was also observed that microalgae growth decreased the window transparency so that, in observing the general rules of Islamic and Iranian architecture, can enhance the visual privacy from non-mahram adjacent neighbors for Muslim women.

Effect of a Microalgae Facade on Design Behaviors: A Pilot Study with Architecture Students

“…To that extent, microalgae facades as a design solution address environmental concerns as well as occupants' health and well-being. Numerous studies have investigated the environmental and technical performance of microalgae facades [3,4]. Microalgae facades can improve indoor and outdoor air quality, which has been documented in previous research [3].…”

“…Numerous studies have investigated the environmental and technical performance of microalgae facades [3,4]. Microalgae facades can improve indoor and outdoor air quality, which has been documented in previous research [3].…”

“…Microalgae facades are a state-of-the-art technology in architectural design. Much of the research on microalgae facades indicated that they reduce the carbon footprint of buildings by decreasing buildings' energy demand [4] and have the potential to reduce air pollution in indoor spaces [3]. As microalgae photosynthesize, they effectively remove carbon dioxide from the air and produce oxygen, contributing to improved indoor air quality.…”

“…As microalgae photosynthesize, they effectively remove carbon dioxide from the air and produce oxygen, contributing to improved indoor air quality. As microalgae facades offer a sustainable solution to improve air quality [3] and natural ventilation [4], they could benefit occupants' cognitive performance and emotions in indoor spaces. Microalgae can double their biomass as short as 3.5 h during exponential growth periods [22].…”

Reduction of carbon dioxide by bio-façades for sustainable development of the environment

“…G) Finally, the integration of bioreactors with architecture ensures a sustainable source of energy at the national level, financial security, a clean and healthy climate, as well as the promotion of symbolic aspects and values of society [80].…”