Microalgae Process Design: from Cells to Photobioreactors

In this course both biological aspects of microalgae growth, and engineering aspects related to large-scale production processes will be covered. Special emphasis is given to light-limited growth and how this affects reactor design and operation. This aspect will also be treated in a hands-on experiment in small bench-scale photobioreactors. Furthermore, gas-liquid transfer of oxygen and carbon dioxide discussed because efficient utilization of carbon dioxide and removal of oxygen is essential for scale-up. Other aspects that will be covered are nutrients supply , temperature effects on microalgal growth, and photobioreactor control and operation. Theory will be supported with practical data from our pilot facility AlgaePARC. At the end, we will return to the biology of microalgae and assess the potential of strain improvement and strain selection with respect to biomass productivity and product accumulation.