Reviewer Comments - EERE

2011 Algae Platform Review – Reviewer Comments
Reviewer Comments are direct transcripts of commentary and material provided by the Platform’s
Review Panel. They have not been edited or altered by the Biomass Program.
Reviewer: 7
It appears that research results and PLE physical characteristics indicate that this in not a good nutreint
source for algal biofuel production. If this conclusion is true, than the value to the algal biofuel program is
an analysis of why PLE is unsuitable. The concept of immoblized nitrogen fixation need to be well
defined in terms of commercial potential of algal biofuels.
Project: 9.2.2.1 University of Maine
Title: Production of higher alcohols liquid biofuel via acidogenic digestion and chemical upgrading of
industrial biomass streams.
Presenter: Peter van Walsum
Presentation Date: Thursday, April 07, 2011
Criteria Avg Score Std Deviation Count
Approach 6.20 1.47 5
Progress 6.20 0.98 5
Relevance 5.80 1.60 5
Critical Success Factors 6.40 1.36 5
1. Project Approach
The project performers have implemented technically sound research, development, and deployment
approaches and demonstrated necessary results to meet their targets
The project performers have identified a project management plan that includes well-defined milestones
and adequate methods for addressing potential risks.
Reviewer Comments
Reviewer: 1 Criteria Score: 4
There is not a good description of the approach. There is no rationale detailed for us to follow the plans.
When chemicals are to be the products rather than fuels, some more detailed discussion of the valuable or
less valuable products is expected, and strategies for maximizing higher value products should have been
part of the Approach.
Reviewer: 3 Criteria Score: 7
No breakthroughs needed. Project is focusing on robust technology, cheap feedstock, existing industries
to achieve its potential.
Reviewer: 5 Criteria Score: 8
The approach was to use conventional wastes from existing local industries, evaluate three different
pathways, and to develop process models. The research and approach were sound and well presented.
Reviewer: 6 Criteria Score: 7
Good and solid approach to upgrading via three reasonable pathways. Appropriate go or no go criteria,
and is an appropriate pathway from microalgae biomass to a fuel.
Reviewer: 7 Criteria Score: 5
Good use of techno economic modeling. Project would benefit from clearer definition and
communication of goals for the potential volume of fuel production and targets for capital and total fuel
costs.
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