Optimizing algal biomass production in an outdoor pond: a simulation model

Abstract

A deterministic simulation model was developed to predict production rates of the marine prymnesiophyte Isochrysis galbana in an outdoor algal mass culture system. The model consists of photoadapation, gross photosynthesis and respiration sections. Actual physiological and biophysical laboratory data, obtained from steady state cultures grown under a wide range of irradiance levels, were used in calculating productivity. The resulting values were used to assess optimal operational parameters to maximize algal biomass production. The model predicted a yearly averaged production rate of 9.7 g C m-2 d -1, which compared well with field data reported in the literature. The model evaluated the effect of pond depth and chlorophyll concentration on potential production rate in various seasons. The model predicted that a yearly averaged chlorophyll areal density of 0.65 g m-2 will yield the maximal production rate. Chlorophyll areal density should be seasonally adjusted to give maximal production. This adjustment could be done either by changing pond depth or chlorophyll concentration. The model predicted that under optimal operational conditions, the diurnal respiration losses averaged 35 % of gross photosynthesis. The calculated growth rate for maximal productivity ranged between 0.15 and 0.24 d-1, suggesting an optimal hydraulic retention time of 6.7 and 4.2 d for various seasons.

Theoretical Maximum Algal Oil Production

“…For the best case, the "cost of living" accounted for by this term was estimated from a survey of a variety of sources, some of which consider only respiration, and others which consider cell energy use comprehensively. Sukenik et al [32] estimated that the costs of living consume 35% of the total energy captured by photosynthesis, meaning a biomass accumulation efficiency of 65%. Falkowski et al [12] cited values of 47-86% for what the authors call "net growth efficiency" for various species and irradiances.…”

COMPORTAMENTO DO CRESCIMENTO DE Chlorella sorokiniana EM ESCALA LABORATORIAL E AMPLIADA

“…Sukenik et al (1991) elaboraram um modelo para avaliar o efeito da profundidade do reservatório e da produção de clorofila a na taxa de produção de biomassa de Isochrysis galbana em várias estações.…”

Can algal biotechnology bring effective solution for closing the phosphorus cycle? Use of algae for nutrient removal: Review of past trends and future perspectives in the context of nutrient recovery

“…During a pilot study, algal cultures in HRAP was able to remove about 70% of the N (Garcia et al 2000). Predictive models of algal growth, oxygen production and reduction in pollutants were developed based on long-term studies (Kroon et al 1989;Sukenik et al 1991). Typical biomass production in these systems ranged from 8-35 g m −2 d −1 (Shelef et al 1980).…”