Method for Operating a Photobioreactor and Photobioreactor

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a method and a specific design for operating a photobioreactor—a device used to cultivate photosynthetic microorganisms (like algae)—that introduces gas along the inner wall of the reactor. By directing the gas (such as air, CO2, or oxygen) along the walls, this approach either removes or significantly reduces the buildup of microorganisms on the walls. This prevents light blockage and maintains the reactor’s efficiency and productivity over time, minimizing cleaning needs and associated costs.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Industrial cultivation of algae or other photosynthetic microorganisms for producing biofuels, proteins, or specialty chemicals.
• Continuous and large-scale production of algae-based nutritional supplements, pigments, or pharmaceuticals.
• Wastewater treatment plants using algae for bioremediation, maximizing consistent operation and output.
• Carbon capture processes that rely on algae to remove and utilize CO2 from industrial exhaust streams.
• Academic and commercial research facilities needing reliable photobioreactor platforms for long-term cultivation experiments.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Maintains high productivity in photobioreactors over extended operating periods by preventing biofouling on the reactor walls.
• Reduces operational costs and labor by minimizing the need for regular cleaning or replacement of photobioreactor components.
• Improves light transmission into the reactor, supporting optimal microorganism growth and product yields.
• Enables more uniform mixing and gas supply throughout the reactor, leading to healthier cultures and higher product quality.
• Flexibility in the choice of construction materials (glass, plastics, films) and reactor geometries, broadening potential applications and scalability.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a photobioreactor (1) and a photobioreactor (1), wherein a gas used for supporting phototrophic microorganisms is introduced into the photobioreactor (1), the gas being supplied along at least a subregion of the wall (3) of the photobioreactor in such a manner that it detaches microorganisms deposited on the wall (3) or reduces the deposition of microorganisms on the wall of the photobioreactor. The productivity of the photobioreactor (1) can be maintained at the same pace over longer operating periods and costs can be reduced by using the method and the photobioreactor (1).