Existing photobioreactors play a valuable role in cultivating microorganisms but they often face limitations. Complex designs can be costly and hard to operate, hindering widespread adoption. Poor mixing leads to uneven growth and lower yields. Scaling up is difficult, and reliance on sunlight is problematic due to variable availability based on location and weather.
The traditional methods for cultivating microorganisms often face limitations in terms of light distribution, temperature control, and scalability. This document explores a novel technology ‘the annular photobioreactor’ that addresses these challenges. This innovative reactor boasts a unique design, offering a versatile solution for cultivating a wide range of microorganisms in both indoor and outdoor environments.
- Annular Design of reactor features a transparent outer cylinder and an inner metallic cylinder with an annular space in between for microorganism growth. This design maximizes light exposure and facilitates efficient cooling.
- Internal Cooling System to maintain optimal temperature for microorganism growth, particularly in outdoor environments.
- Enhanced mixing using air bubbles, ensuring proper nutrient and light distribution throughout the culture.
- Precise temperature control for optimal growth conditions.
- Simple operation, easy cleaning process and modular design allows for easy scaling of production capacity
The prototype consists of parallel-stacked tubes on a frame with integrated air supply and cooling water circulation. A reflective plate ensures uniform illumination, and the system can be mounted on a solar tracker.
The technology has been lab-tested and validated. It is yet to be commercialized on an industrial scale.
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- By efficiently cultivating algae or bacteria, this technology could contribute to the development of sustainable biofuels, providing a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels.
- The ability to efficiently grow microorganisms for cleaning up pollutants in water or soil makes this invention valuable for bioremediation efforts, leading to a cleaner environment.
- Biotechnology: For the production of biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and other bio-based products.
- Agriculture: Cultivating algae and other microorganisms for use as biofertilizers and animal feed supplements.
- Environmental Management: Wastewater treatment and carbon capture using microorganisms.
- Producing algae for various use cases, such as spirulina for high-protein diets and carbon capture
- Production of biofuels and other valuable bioproducts derived from microorganisms.
- Research on microorganism growth and behavior.
- Development of new strains of microorganisms with desired properties.
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