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Updated: Mar 3, 2026
08:41
Microalgae Cultivation and Biomass Quantification in a Bench-Scale Photobioreactor with Corrosive Flue Gases
Published on: December 19, 2019
10.9K
Biofouling in photobioreactors for marine microalgae
Ouassim Zeriouh1, José Vicente Reinoso-Moreno1, Lorenzo López-Rosales1
1a Department of Chemical Engineering , University of Almería , Almería , Spain.
Critical Reviews in Biotechnology
|April 22, 2017
Summary
Preventing microalgal adhesion in photobioreactors (PBRs) is crucial for efficient biomass cultivation. This study reviews theories of biofouling to improve PBR surface design for higher productivity and lower costs.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Microalgal Cultivation
- Surface Science
Background:
- Microalgal biomass production relies on efficient cultivation systems.
- Biofouling in photobioreactors (PBRs) reduces light penetration, decreasing photosynthetic efficiency and biomass productivity.
- Biofouling also causes culture degradation and contamination, potentially halting cultivation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing studies on microalgal adhesion in PBRs.
- To apply thermodynamic and colloidal theories to understand biofouling mechanisms.
- To discuss the relationship between surface properties, cell interactions, and biofouling.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of systematic studies on microalgal biofouling.
- Application of thermodynamic and colloidal theories to microalgal adhesion.
- Analysis of physicochemical properties influencing cell-surface interactions.
- Case study of Nannochloropsis gaditana adhesion on glass surfaces.
Main Results:
- Microalgal adhesion on PBR surfaces leads to biofouling, reducing light and productivity.
- Physicochemical properties of PBR surfaces and microalgal cells, along with ionic strength, influence adhesion.
- Existing theories show inaccuracies when applied to flowing PBR systems.
Conclusions:
- Designing PBR surfaces to prevent microalgal adhesion is essential for efficient and cost-effective biomass production.
- Further refinement of biofouling theories is needed for application in dynamic PBR environments.
- Improved PBR design can lead to extended operational periods and higher yields.
Keywords:
Nannochloropsis gaditanaXDLVO theoryadhesionbiofoulingmicroalgaephotobioreactorthermodynamic modelMore Related Videos
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