Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis of Vertical Mixing in Algae Biofuel Raceways Through the Addition of Delta Wings at Angle-of-Incidence

CFD calculations of experimental algae raceways under consideration for biofuel production studies were performed in an effort to assess the effectiveness of delta wing vortex formation as a means of enhancing vertical mixing. The impact of delta wings on the level of turbulence dissipation rate in these raceways was also investigated. All simulations were completed at a constant level of power input into the raceway. Velocity profiles as well as characteristic mixing times were used to analyze and quantify the vertical mixing both with and without delta wings. The velocity profiles and turbulent dissipation rate calculations suggest that delta wings are a viable method of increasing vertical motion. However, the mixing time results for the configuration of delta wings tested suggest that the additional mixing was insignificant to the raceway as a whole. Additional work on optimizing the use of delta wings is suggested.