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Substrate properties as controlling parameters in attached algal cultivation
Zahra Karimi1, H Dail Laughinghouse2, Virginia A Davis1
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA.
Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology
|February 10, 2021
Summary
Attached algae cultivation offers a cost-effective alternative to planktonic systems. Optimizing substrate surfaces enhances algal adhesion and growth, improving efficiency for diverse applications beyond biofuels.
Area of Science:
- * Algal biotechnology and biorefining.
- * Surface science and biomaterials engineering.
Background:
- * Attached algae cultivation systems present a cost- and energy-efficient alternative to planktonic systems.
- * Current research on attached systems is limited, primarily focusing on biofuel-relevant algae strains.
- * Emerging biorefinery pathways necessitate updated strain selection and cultivation methods for value-added products.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To review the impact of substrate surface characteristics on attached algae cultivation.
- * To explore engineering substrate properties for enhanced algal adhesion and selective growth.
- * To emphasize the role of algal community structure and attachment mechanisms in attached cultivation systems.
Main Methods:
- * Literature review focusing on substrate chemistry and topography effects.
- * Analysis of algal attachment mechanisms, particularly for filamentous algae.
- * Case study using Algal Turf Scrubber (ATS™) systems.
Main Results:
- * Substrate surface characteristics significantly influence attached algal cultivation performance.
- * Engineering surface properties can promote algal adhesion and selective colonization.
- * Understanding periphytic algae attachment adaptations is crucial for system optimization.
Conclusions:
- * Attached algal cultivation holds significant promise as an alternative to planktonic methods.
- * Tailoring substrate surface qualities is key to improving system performance.
- * The innate attachment capabilities of periphytic algae offer substantial potential for cultivation advancements.
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