Combined in-situ immobilization system of Chlorella sp. in photobioreactor

Research output: Contribution to journalArticle in an indexed scientific journalpeer-review

Abstract

This case study presents a pioneering approach for in-situ immobilization of Chlorella sp. microalgae in photobioreactors, achieved through the synergistic combination of immobilization within a polymeric gel and adsorption on a Nylon mesh, termed the CIPGA system. By applying Buckingham's Pi theorem, correlations among governing variables of the CIPGA were established, and a comprehensive full factorial experimental design assessed the significance of light intensity, reactor diameter, and volumetric airflow. Optimal immobilization conditions for Chlorella sp. were determined: light intensity of 71 μmolm−2s−1, photobioreactor diameter of 0.15 m, and aeration air flow rate of 6.7 × 10−6 m3 s−1. A non-linear three-dimensional model utilizing dimensionless parameters was formulated, exhibiting strong accuracy in predicting scaling-up conditions. The CIPGA system demonstrated remarkable efficacy, forming extensive microalgal strands and a biofilm within a complex three-dimensional architecture. Characterization through FTIR spectra analysis revealed significant attributes, including proteins, polysaccharides, and lipid substances. Notably, the presence of exopolysaccharides emerged as a key factor driving microalgal adhesion to hydrophobic surfaces. The versatile applications of this innovative immobilization approach encompass various bioprocesses, including high-value product generation (biohydrogen, biodiesel, photopigments), nutrient and heavy metal ion removal, biosensors, and wastewater treatment processes.

Original languageEnglish
Article number100462
JournalCase Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering
Volume8
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2023

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2023 The Authors

Keywords

  • CIPGA
  • Combined immobilization
  • Design of experiments
  • Dimensionless groups
  • Microalgae
  • Polymeric gel

Types Minciencias

  • Artículos de investigación con calidad A1 / Q1

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