Poster (Other)

FZJ-2017-01325

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Computational analysis of hydrodynamics and light distribution in photo-bioreactors for algae biomass production

Loomba, V. (Corresponding author)FZJ* ; Huber, G.FZJ* ; von Lieres, E.FZJ*

2016

Please use a persistent id in citations: http://hdl.handle.net/2128/13708

Abstract: Microalgae can be directly used in health food or as bio-filters for waste water treatment. They also have numerous commercial applications in cosmetics, aquaculture and chemical industry as a source of highly valuable molecules, e.g., polyunsaturated fatty acids [1]. Moreover, they are increasingly recognized as a promising source for biodiesel production [2]. To realize the full potential of microalgae, optimal operating conditions for their cultivation in photo-bioreactors (PBR) need to be identified in order to maximize productivity, lipid content, and efficiency of photosynthesis. The most important parameters affecting PBR performance are reactor shape, light intensity distribution, algae growth and other metabolic properties.The presented study aims at optimizing these parameters using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations with the COMSOL Multiphysics software. Specifically, flat panel photo-bioreactors with turbulent mixing due to air sparging and one-sided lighting are studied. First, flow profiles of both liquid and gas phases are computed using the Euler-Euler approach for analyzing the air sparging and detecting potential dead zones. Then, light intensity distributions are calculated inside different PBR types, based on absorption and light scattering by algae and gas bubbles. Subsequently, the paths of individual algae are traced, and the environmental conditions they are exposed to are recorded over time, in particular aeration and light intensity. Results of the above described simulation stages will be presented and discussed.[1] Spolaore et al.: Commercial applications of microalgae, J. Biosci. Bioeng. 101 (2006): 87-96.[2] Bitog et al.: Application of computational fluid dynamics for modeling and designing photobioreactors for microalgae production: A review, Comput. Electron. Agr. 76 (2011): 131-147.

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. Pflanzenwissenschaften (IBG-2)
2. Biotechnologie (IBG-1)

Research Program(s):

1. 582 - Plant Science (POF3-582) (POF3-582)

Appears in the scientific report 2016

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Database coverage:

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