2 Materials/Tools Required for Conducting an LCA of Algal Fuels
2.1 Software
Guidelines
Major software platforms which could be used for conducting an
LCA of algal fuels are as follows:
1. SimaPro LCA Software.
This platform provides a professional framework to compile,
evaluate, and track the environmental consequences of algal
fuel projects. Using this tool, complex life cycles of algal fuel
production chains can be systematically and transparently modeled and analyzed according to the ISO 14040 and ISO 14044
series recommendations.
2. GaBi Software.
This platform is available in different versions from educational
to professional ones. Using this software, environmental, cost,
and social aspects of algal fuels during their life cycles can be
measured and evaluated. This platform also includes detailed
GaBi databases with worldwide coverage and EcoInvent data.
3. OpenLCA Software.
This free open-source software can be used for modeling and
evaluating the LCA of algal fuel systems, with various import
and export options. Using this platform, a basic LCA
Fig. 1 Biodiesel production chain from algae. Adopted from AFS BioOil Co
Life Cycle Analysis
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