PHOTOBIORREACTOR AND PROCESS FOR CROP AND MICRO ALGAE GROWTH

专利摘要:
new photobioreactor for closed horizontal cultivation of microalgae. the invention relates to a new photobioreactor comprising a covered and sealed plastic cover, coated with a thin layer of a highly dense culture of a single unicellular photoautotrophic organism. carbon dioxide is exchanged from a gas space above the culture, through the associated mixture, subtending the wave motion. the invention provides a substantial improvement in processing costs in the sterilization of growth media, as well as a reduction in energy and raw material costs, especially related to carbon dioxide. capital expenditures are reduced by eliminating the need for homogenization, and compressors to suspend cells and mix carbon dioxide.
公开号:BR112015008979B1
申请号:R112015008979-8
申请日:2013-10-22
公开日:2020-12-15
发明作者:Jonathan Gressel；Mordechai Granot
申请人:Jonathan Gressel；Mordechai Granot；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

Field of the Invention
[001] This invention belongs to a new closed photobioreactor system that comprises a plastic cover, sealed to form a flat tubular container or sleeve, coated with a thin layer of a highly dense culture of a photoautotrophic unicellular organism. The carbon dioxide is exchanged from the sealed and closed gas space, above the horizontal culture, through concurrent mixing by subtended wave movements. The invention provides a substantial improvement in processing costs, in the sterilization of growth media, as well as a reduction in energy and raw material expenses, especially related to carbon dioxide. Capital costs are reduced by eliminating the need for homogenization and compressors to suspend cells and mix carbon dioxide. Background of the Invention
[002] Microalgae (broadly defined in the present invention to include cyanobacteria and single-celled photosynthetic eukaryotic algae) have great growth potential; more than ten times the productivity per unit area compared to terrestrial crops. Microalgae are raw materials potentially suitable for the production of low-cost biofuels, animal feed and other products. Several obstacles prevented this potential from being achieved; the biological impediments to the use of non-domesticated organisms are being overcome by the genetic engineering of microalgae (Gressel 2013). The impediment to the high cost of collecting algae (water removal) by high-speed (energy-intensive) centrifugation has been overcome by a new flocculation technology that is dependent on the cultivation of dense microalgae crops (US2011 / 081706). The main remaining obstacles are in cultivation: both related to the costs of the structures used and the high costs to operate them.
[003] Basins of open raceways and their derivatives are cheap to build, but they must have a depth of at least 40 cm to allow the proper mixing and dissolution of the bubbled (scattered) carbon dioxide. Even so, a considerable amount of carbon dioxide is lost to the atmosphere. The algae must be kept relatively diluted to allow light to penetrate, and even so, all photons are typically absorbed in the upper 5 to 10 cm, and the material below breathes the photosynthesis, decreasing the yield of the potential. There is a high cost in sterilizing large volumes of used water, in the compressors needed for bubbling, in the paddle wheels for mixing and for the unused carbon dioxide lost. Cooling open gutters is cheap in dry climates, that is, it is by evaporation, requiring replacement with fresh water, even with seaweed, to avoid excessive salinization. Open systems are easily contaminated by other undesirable species, including other algae, microbes and algae-eating protozoa and metazoan herbivores, and thus several closed systems have been designed, but cooling is especially expensive for closed systems because deep water absorbs radiation. infrared that causes heating, which cannot be dissipated by evaporative cooling.
[004] A generic diagram of such a closed bioreactor is shown in figure 1, and how it fits into a general cultivation system is described in figures 2 A, B and C. This design differs substantially from the many designs proposed for photobioreactors ( see table 1 below), since the algae in the present invention are grown in a concentrated thin layer which, together with the use of a shear wave motion, makes homogenization unnecessary. Table 1 - Design of illuminated photobioreactors with insufficient light penetration for most cells in dense culture and inefficient carbon dioxide mixture3









aBioreactors predominantly illuminated internally or externally by fluorescence, LED, optical fibers, etc. Artificial lights are excluded from this table. bOnly representative examples of the superstructure that requires vertical and angled photobioreactors are provided, because they are not the subject of this order c Non-patent citations are listed at the end of the order in the general references section
[005] Water absorbs infrared radiation from the sun. At a depth of 5 cm approx. 90% of the near infrared (most of the infrared from the sun and the part with the highest energy) is adsorbed, resulting in heating of the algae above their ideal growth temperatures in many environments, and at 50 cm 99% would be adsorbed, resulting in considerable heating. At 5 mm, only 9% would be adsorbed on a floating bioreactor, and the rest would penetrate the water below, facilitating cooling and heat exchange.
[006] Bubbling in many photobioreactor (PBR) projects occurs for two reasons - to mix the algae and keep them suspended, and to introduce CO2. The CO2 in the previous systems must often be diluted with air because, at higher concentrations of CO2, the rate of bubbling required for the mixture could excessively acidify the medium. This is especially a problem with algae with larger cells, as they settle more quickly than algae with smaller cells, and more mixing energy is needed. Large volumes of CO2-enriched air are thus pumped at high energy costs, losing much of the CO2. The present invention excludes the need to use bubbles to mix and reduces the cost of CO2, sterile medium, collects and produces less effluents if the medium after collection is not recycled. Methods beyond bubbling have also been proposed; for example, Mixing carbon dioxide with the medium that is being introduced by cofluxing on a solid substrate and adding (uneconomical) NaOH to the medium to capture atmospheric CO2 and thus generate bicarbonate (EP 2 371 940).
[007] Many closed vertical systems built above the ground that are made of rigid or flexible plates, tubes, plastic bags / sleeves or glass walls are described in table 1. Such structures allow for more concentrated growth and the use of efficient bubbling (but with higher compression cost) of air mixed with carbon dioxide. The capital costs of rigid materials are high, as are the costs of the superstructure to ensure that they are not destroyed in high winds. Evaporative cooling of the culture media is not possible in closed systems, as the water in the structures absorbs infrared light, and cooling can be expensive. Short optical paths can be designed in such systems, allowing a higher density of algae (table 1).
[008] Horizontal or almost horizontal systems (table 1) allow for a smaller superstructure. One system (US2007 / 0048848) uses flexible plastic sleeves reclined with the mixture affected by a peristaltic cylinder track support, with no explanation of how the temperature should be controlled. In another (dimensionless) system, a gas plug moves through the channels, somehow tilting the system to move a gas plug through the system like a standing wave (US2011 / 0281339). The density of the algae cells and the method of cooling are not disclosed in this document, and there are superstructures necessary to perform the tilt.
[009] Fully horizontal systems (table 1) using plastic film are much less expensive and are used floating on the sea, where the movement of the waves provides a certain degree of mixing and the salt water provides cooling. Both are only suitable for freshwater algae, since they achieve buoyancy by floating the bioreactors in seawater, using differences in relative density to keep them afloat. The carbon dioxide mixed with air is bubbled under pressure through the system using sprayers, and significant amounts are wasted, as in other systems. An optical path of 10 to 15 cm is necessary to use carbon dioxide optimally. There is no informed horizontal system where the depth of the algae is less than 5 cm or where carbon dioxide is provided in other ways besides spraying, and where excess oxygen is removed by any process other than ventilation (table 1). Summary of the Invention
[0010] A horizontal thin-layer system is disclosed in the present invention, where cooling is provided by floating in the water, where part of the solar infrared radiation passes through the bioreactor into the water and the rest is dissipated through the lower thin layer of the cover floating plastic that acts as a heat exchanger (figures 1 and 2A, B and C). Buoyancy is achieved by having a gas space above the algae and, in this way, seaweed in salt water can be grown above any type of water. The use of ideal light is achieved by placing the algae in a thin, highly concentrated layer. Carbon dioxide is transferred from the gas space by wave motion, eliminating the need for compressed carbon dioxide bubbles.
[0011] The rapid diffusion of carbon dioxide in the thin layer of algae (less than 1 cm deep) is carried out by various types of wave movements, including waves created by a wave machine, which can be increased by fins attached to the bottom the bioreactor, or minions generated by vibrators or piezoelectric devices connected to the lower plate (figures 3 to 9), or by the use of a lower plate that is agitated by low amplitude vibrations (figure 10). The types of waves that the agitation / excitation devices produce are crucial to the gas and algae mixing process. The frequency component of these waves should not inhibit algae growth processes; therefore, such ultrasonic frequencies in the mechanical excitation pulses produced by piezoelectric or magnetostrictive devices must be avoided. The wave induction (shear) forms areas of the gas interface of the inner layer-larger algae and, thus, accelerates the mixture and the micro-organic processes. The activation of the device must be programmed to produce the shear waves and turbulent vortices that promote the gas-algae mixture.
[0012] The thin layer photobioreactor (TLPBR) is constructed from cheap plastic cover, made in wide sleeves, kept flexibly flat floating on the cooling water. The excess oxygen emitted by photosynthesis can be purified and used in industrial processes or released into the atmosphere through the plastic cover that has an extensive permeability to oxygen, but that is less permeable or impervious to carbon dioxide (low beta value). The high density of algae requires a less sterile culture medium and facilitates the use of highly inexpensive flocculation technologies to collect algae. No superstructure above ground or pumping under high pressure is necessary.
[0013] One embodiment of the present invention provides a photobioreactor to grow and grow microalgae, which comprises a flexible plastic cover with a first and second face, wherein said first (bottom) face is coated with a layer of microalgae with less than 1 cm thick and floating on the surface of a heat sink water body with an inlet and outlet opening, to insert the algae inoculum and the medium, and to collect the excess algae (figures 1 and 2A, B and C). Said second (upper) face of the flexible cover contains a gas space. The gas space above contains a predetermined range of carbon dioxide to oxygen ratios, and a means of increasing the pressure of the gas space with inlet and outlet openings. One light source is above the second (top face), which can preferably be sunlight, or increased sunlight with artificial lighting or just artificial lighting. Below or attached to the bottom face is a means to stir the body of water and algae in the bioreactor, facilitating the exchange of gas with the air space and the exchange of heat between the layer of algae and the sub-subtended water. Preferably, the thickness of the microalgae coating is in the range of 2.5 to 5.0 mm.
[0014] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a process for growing and growing microalgae, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a photobioreactor comprising a flexible plastic cover sealed as a container or flat tubular sleeve with a first and a second face , as described above, with said flexible cover comprising a predetermined amount of carbon dioxide and a water heat exchanger body below and in contact with the cover; (b) covering the cover on said first face with a layer of microalgae less than 1 cm thick; (c) float the first face of the cover over the surface of a body of heat dissipating water by virtue of having a gas space between the two faces that provide buoyancy; (d) mechanically agitate the water body, causing vibrations and a wave motion using low amplitude wave generators (figure 3), where the spacing and timing of the transducers that generate the wave pulses can be set so that they generate waves shear that facilitate the mixing and exchange of gases in the algae layer. (e) these waves allow the dioxide in the air space to dissolve in the aqueous mineral medium containing the algae and release the oxygen formed during photosynthesis into the air space above; (f) exposing the microalgae to light; and (g) collecting microalgae by applying pressure between the cover and forcing the microalgae out of the photobioreactor through an appropriate orifice. In another modality, the photobioreactor comprises algae and / or cyanobacteria selected from Phaeodactylum tricornutum, Amphiprora hyaline, Amphora spp., Chaetocerosmuelleri, Naviculasaprophila, Nitzschiasp., Nitzschiacommunis, Scenedesmusdimorisis, Musikis, Musikis, abundans, Synechococcus elongates PCC6301, Botryococcusbraunii, Gloeobacterviolaceus PCC7421, Synechococcus PCC7002, Synechococcus PCC7942, Synechocystis PCC6803, Thermosynechococcus elongates BP-1, Nannochochopsopsisisopsochisisochisisochisisochisisochisisochisisochisisochisisochisisochisochisisochisisochisochisochisisochisisochisochopsisochisochopsisochisochopsisochisochopsisochisochopsisochisochopsisochisochopsisisannochisochopsisisannysochisochopsisochisisopsisnochisochisisopsisnochisochopsisisannysochisochisisopsisnochochisisopsisnysochisochopsisisnysochisochisisopsychis. galbana, Aphanocapsasp., Botryococcussudeticus, Euglena gracilis, Nitzschiapalea, Pleurochrysiscarterae, Tetraselmis chuii, Pavlovaspp. and Nannochloris spp., as representatives of all species of algae and cyanobacteria; preferably, the algae are Chlorella sp. freshwater, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, Synechococcus PCC 7002 (marine), Synechococcus7942 (freshwater), Nannochloris sp., Nannochloropsis spp., lsochrysis sp. CS-177, Pavlovalutheri, Phaeodactylum tricornutum or Tetraselmis chuii, or any combination thereof.
[0015] In another modality, the photobioreactor comprises fins fixed below the lower plastic cover that amplifies the movements caused by the mechanical wave generator or natural waves, when floating in free water (figure 4), or causing the reciprocal movement due to the flow of unidirectional continuous or pulsed water, when connected or artificial channel rivers (figure 5). The fins can be defined at specified distances, in order to generate shear waves that intensify and mix the algae layer. These shear waves that are formed increase the gas - algae interface, facilitating the efficient gas exchange between air space and the algae growth medium.
[0016] All modalities of the present invention provide a photobioreactor, as described above, in which the pH of the water is maintained at the ideal daytime value for the photosynthesis of the particular algae species being grown (usually at pH 6.5) through control the amount of dissolved carbon dioxide, controlling the production of waves through feedback, where they are artificially generated, and controlling the firmness of the bonds to limit or increase flexibility and mixing in the bioreactors that float on the natural waves that generate bodies of Water.
[0017] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a photobioreactor, as described above, in which the temperature of the water body is maintained at an ideal temperature for each species of algae through the use of heat exchange through the lower layer, through the use of river, sea or artificially cooled water in hot climates, or warm water from the cooling water of industrial effluents or other sources in winter in temperate climates.
[0018] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a photobioreactor, as described here above, in which water agitation is generated by piezoelectric wires in a mesh formation (figure 6a) or as individual transducers spread within the algae suspension ( figure 6B).
[0019] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a photobioreactor, as described above, in which exposure to light comprises a light intensity of about 200 μEinsteins m-2 s-1 until full sunlight, and a clear ratio : dark from about 16 to 8 h, or natural ambient light: dark.
[0020] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a photobioreactor, as described here above, in which the agitation of the water is generated by a series of mini-vibrators (figures 7 and 8A, B, C and D).
[0021] In the basic configuration defined and detailed in figures 8A and 8B, the control of the excitation moment of the individual minivibrators is pre-programmed to generate shear waves. The mini-vibrators can be mounted glued to the bottom side of the photobioreactor (figure 8A) or mounted inside rigid profiles that contribute to an almost tilt-free surface inside the photobioreactor (figure 8B). A localized control method of controlling the creation of shear waves is described in figures 8C and 8D. A hydrophone detects the arrival of a wave from an adjacent mini-vibrator or transducer (piezoelectric or magnetostrictive), activates the mini-vibrator and increases the amplitude of the transverse shear wave.
[0022] In another modality, strips of bubble wrap are affixed to the bottom of the bioreactor to avoid the inclination caused by positive pressure in the air space and the weight of the mixing devices (figure 9).
[0023] In another modality, the bottom of the photobioreactor is reinforced with rigid plastic and lattice beams, and the waves are generated by the vibrational balance of the structure (figure 10).
[0024] In the preferred modalities where the waves are artificially generated, the synchronism of the wave pulses can be defined so that they generate shear waves that mix the algae layer. The shear waves that are formed in this way increase the area of the gas-water interface, thus facilitating the efficient gas exchange between the air space and the algae growth medium.
[0025] In the preferred modalities, the preferred plastics will have a low beta value, that is, they will pass oxygen and retain carbon dioxide, thereby ventilating excess oxygen when the air space exceeds 20% oxygen in the outer atmosphere ; Preferred plastics are based on one or more of the following polymers and copolymers and / or respective laminates optionally mixed with plasticizers and antioxidants: polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, polycarbonate, polyester, polyamide, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, polystyrene polyolene copolymers butadiene and styrene, polyurethane, polyacrylonitrile and polyacrylate, in single layer or mixed multilayer plates.
[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the upper plastic is adequately treated to prevent degradation by ultraviolet light, reflect the maximum amount of infrared light possible (to reduce the cost of cooling) without excessively reducing the transmission of photosynthetically active radiation, and not supports having condensed light reflector on the inside. The upper plastic, in a preferred mode, is specially treated to transmit (and not reflect) low angle light in the early morning and late afternoon.
[0027] In the modalities in which 100% of the carbon dioxide is in the starting gas, the molecular sieve filtration system can be used to remove the oxygen emitted during photosynthesis (as a valuable co-product) and then the plastic used will be chosen to have the minimum possible permeability for all gases.
[0028] In other modalities, the upper plastic layer will be a plastic with low beta value that transmits oxygen and retains carbon dioxide, avoiding the inhibition of photosynthesis by excess of oxygen and excluding the need to periodically ventilate the bioreactors to remove the excess of oxygen (and lose a little carbon dioxide) or need more expensive molecular sieve filtration.
[0029] In the preferred modalities, the collection will be carried out at intervals based on the determination of the photometric density of the algae, removing 25 to 50% of the fluid containing algae, and immediately replacing the fluid with fresh or salt based medium with content essential minerals (fertilizer) increased (depending on the species of algae used). The preferred algae species used are those that quickly remove and internally store the essential elements of the medium for future use, since they compete better with undesirable species. The amount of fertilizer added is just enough not to limit growth, and has all the essential elements removed and used by the algae before the next collection cycle, so there is minimal waste of tiny fertilizers and less problems caused by fertilizers in the effluents.
[0030] The inferior plastic in the preferred modes will be a plastic with the maximum profitable rate of heat exchange. When algae resistant to transgenic herbicides is used, the inner surface layer of the lower plastic can be impregnated with the appropriate herbicide to facilitate slow release to control foreign species. The inner layers of the upper and lower plastic plates can be impregnated with non-phytotoxic and antimicrobial fungicides to allow slow release and the prevention of contamination and biofilm formation.
[0031] In one embodiment, semi-rigid flexible fins are attached to the lower plastic perpendicular to the direction of the water flow. By having the water flow in waves or controlled waves, the fins will stir the lower plastic, facilitating the continuous suspension of the algae and the introduction and dissolution of carbon dioxide in the medium (figures 4 and 5). The intensity and frequencies of the pulsating waves are controlled by feedback by the pH and temperature sensors, to control the CO2 and the temperature in the photobioreactor. The intensity of the mixture can be further dampened or increased by adjusting the traction on the mooring ropes. At sea, the movement of the tides can be used to flap the fins as the tide comes in / out. In unidirectional flow systems (floating in rivers, on land, in flood plains) the movement of water can be used to agitate the system.
[0032] In all modalities, the collection is accelerated by the positive pressure of the gas space above the algae in the photobioreactor, which expels the algae into the open collection outlet.
[0033] Freshwater, brackish or marine cyanobacteria and algae can be (not exclusively) selected from the following list:
[0034] In the various modalities, algae and cyanobacteria were selected from the following organisms: Phaeodactylum tricornutum, Amphiprora hyaline, Amphora spp., Chaetocerosmuelleri, Naviculasaprophila, Nitzschiasp., Nitzschiacommunis, Scenedesmusdimorisis, Musikis, Haematococcuspluvialis, Neochloris oleo abundans, Synechococcus elongates PCC6301, Botryococcusbraunii, Gloeobacterviolaceus PCC7421, Synechococcus PCC7002, Synechococcus PCC7942, Synechocysis PCC6803, Thermosynechococis elongates, Thermosynechococcus elongates. galbana, Aphanocapsasp., Botryococcussudeticus, Euglena gracilis, Nitzschiapalea, Pleurochrysiscarterae, Tetraselmis chuii, Pavlovaspp. and Nannochloris spp., as representatives of all species of algae and cyanobacteria. The algae come from a large taxonomic cross section of species (see table 2 below). Table 2: Phylogeny of some of the eukaryotic algae used:
http://wwvv.alqaebase.org/browse/taxonomy/
[0035] However, it is clear to a person skilled in the art that this list is not exclusive, but that several other genera and species can be used equally.
[0036] The smallest single-celled species are typically / generally preferred, as they can be kept suspended in solution with the least amount of energy. With a small change in the collection system, the growth structures can be used for the cultivation of small aquatic plants, such as duckweed (Lemnaceae). Instead of pressurizing the material to be collected through a door on the bottom plate, a skimming device is used to collect the duckweed. In all modalities, the algae used can be mixed species or wild type isolates, or they can be genetically manipulated to have characteristics that increase reliability in the crop (see table 3 below), or that provide added value to the algae (see table 4 below). Table 3. Examples of transgenes that increase crop reliability

Δ = deleted section of the gene, resulting in inactivity. Source: Gressel (2013) Table 4 Examples of transgenes that add economic value to algae


[0037] However, it is clear to a person skilled in the art that the examples of possible transgenes listed in Tables 3 and 4 are not exclusive, but that several other genera and species can be used equally.
[0038] In all modalities, the density of the algae must be sufficient so that the inexpensive flocculation system described by Schlesinger et al. (2012) can be used, and the effluent water is recycled back to the culture system after the addition of concentrated fertilizer.
[0039] The ideal places for growing algae in photobioreactors are: (1) On river floodplains, where crops cannot be reliably grown. The cooling water can be supplied by the gravity of the upstream dams; (2) Structures similar to rice paddies or as abandoned shrimp farms near the sea with added pumping systems; (3) Fluctuation in rivers; (4) In protected bays or estuaries; (5) In temperate climates: close to power plants, close to hot springs or other sources of hot water that can be a source of hot water in winter, as well as carbon dioxide (6) In the open sea with a lowering system bioreactors on the seabed in stormy weather (US 2011/0124087). In that case, the airspace should, for the most part, be emptied before sinking, and reflux can be facilitated by pumping gas. Since algae in photobioreactors absorb practically all photons, the best places are where there is maximum irradiation, deserts (preferably near the sea) + 30 ° N / S of the Equator. (7) These photobioreactors allow coverage of water reservoirs for drinking or for irrigation or industrial use, where they have certain advantages: 1. By covering the surface, they prevent water loss through evaporation and do so at no cost to the owner the reservoir, how the algae are being grown commercially, and; 2. Because algae form a layer that is not penetrated by light, cyanobacteria and photosynthetic algae cannot grow in the reservoir water, preventing the production of toxins and other undesirable compounds by algae and cyanobacteria. Brief Description of Drawings
[0040] The figures are not illustrations in scale of the thin layer photobioreactors, which are the subject of this patent.
[0041] Figure 1 is a generic view of a thin layer photobioreactor without showing how the wave mix is achieved. The other figures show several methods of mixing wave motion.
[0042] Figures 2A, B and C show the peripheral controls and the photobioreactor as part of a commercial algae production system. A. the system controls; B. the system components; C. the data log needed to control the system /
[0043] Figure 3 is a pilot scale photobioreactor that can be expanded in length for larger scale production. It includes the functions shown in figures 1 and 2A, B and C. The low amplitude (mini) waves are formed by wave generators driven by a mechanical eccentric piston on the side (s) of the bioreactors, activated electronically when the pH rises above a fixed value for each species, to generate shear waves to optimally dissolve the carbon dioxide in the air space and decrease the pH.
[0044] Figure 4 is a modified version of the photobioreactor shown in figure 3, whereby flexible fins are attached to the bottom of the bioreactor to increase and optimize the wave action of the waves generated by the wave machine, to amplify the vibration of the bioreactor and thus cause the greatest wave movement. It consists of: 2 to 3 mm thick, plastic strips 2 to 4 cm wide pre-soaked by folding and welding or adhesive sealing to the lower plastic plates by the width of the sleeve, when waves must be generated along the length of the bioreactor (and then will also prevent sagging in the middle of the photobioreactor), or the entire length of the bioreactor, if waves are generated from the sides. The fins are spaced in parallel from 20 to 90 cm apart, preferably from 25 to 50 cm apart.
[0045] Figure 5 is a modified version of the photobioreactor shown in figure 3, whereby flexible fins are attached to the bottom of the bioreactor to increase and optimize the wave action of waves generated by unidirectional flow water, to amplify vibration of the bioreactor and thus cause a greater wave movement. It consists of: 2 to 3 mm thick, plastic strips 2 to 4 cm wide pre-soaked by folding and welding or adhesive sealing to the lower plastic plates by the width of the sleeve, when waves must be generated along the length of the bioreactor (and then will also prevent sagging in the middle of the photobioreactor), or the entire length of the bioreactor, if waves are generated from the sides. The fins are spaced in parallel from 20 to 90 cm apart, preferably from 25 to 50 cm apart, with uneven spacing calculated to form shear waves.
[0046] Figures 6A and B are a modified version of the photobioreactor shown in figure 3, by means of which there is no wave generation machine. Instead, wires are embedded or welded at the bottom of the TLPBR, and minions are generated by vibrating the wires by the piezoelectric action. The wires can be stretched across the width of the bioreactors (6B) or can be crossed (6A) and driven electronically in the calculated way to form the shear waves.
[0047] Figure 7 is a modified version of the photobioreactor shown in figure 6, by means of which there is no wave generation machine. Instead, wires are connected to the bottom of the TLPBR, and minions are generated by low energy, requiring low voltage DC vibrators (see figures 8A, B, C and D, for details). The electrical wires that supply power to the vibrators can be stretched across the width of the bioreactors and kept stretched to avoid tilting and maintain the level of the bioreactor.
[0048] Figures 8A, B, C and D are different versions of the photobioreactor shown in figure 7, whereby the waves are generated by minivibrating arrays, where the low-voltage DC vibrators that require separate low energy are glued on the bottom (A) or incorporated in the U-shaped plastic profiles, where the space not occupied by the vibrators is filled with a hydrophobic plastic foam (for example, polystyrene or polyurethane) that give buoyancy to the rigid structure (B). Vibrators can be pre-programmed to be excited at intervals that generate shear waves (A and B), or hydrophones can be mounted nearby to detect wave movements and activate the vibrators to generate shear waves (C and D) .
[0049] Figure 9 is a modified version of the photobioreactor shown in Figures 3 to 5, whereby the rows of plastic bubbles (similar to the bubble plastic used in packaging) are bonded by adhesive or are welded to the bottom facing the cooling water) to further prevent tilting in the middle of the bioreactors.
[0050] Figure 10 is an illustration of a floating photobioreactor with a solid bottom, where the waves are generated by the low amplitude vibratory movement. Because it is buoyant, there is very little weight being sustained, making it possible to use lighter supports and minimal energy to carry out the wave-generating vibratory balance.
[0051] Figure 11 is an illustration of a thin, non-limiting and exemplary laboratory scale layer, floating on the water photobioreactor.
[0052] Figure 12 is a diagram showing how the pulses of vibration in the plastic sheet generate shear waves close to the point where the waves of each pulse meet.
[0053] Figure 13 is the configuration of the introduction of the medium in a photobioreactor. The medium is introduced in places where a double concentration of algae is reached by controlling the flow rate of the introduced algae and medium. The minerals in the medium are introduced at a rate where they are depleted at the time of algae duplication. This generates a plug of algae moving slowly towards the collection opening. The length of the last phase before the algae are forced out of the collection opening can vary based on whether a phase of stationary growth is desired to force the metabolism of special products, for example, greater amounts of secondary metabolites or neutral lipids.
[0054] Figure 14 is a sensitivity analysis comparing the results of temperate climate with a more tropical scenario. Details of the Invention
[0055] This subject can be more easily understood by reference to the detailed description below taken in conjunction with the figures and examples attached, which form part of this disclosure. It should be understood that this matter is not limited to the specific devices, methods, applications, conditions or parameters described and / or shown in the present invention, and that the terminology used in this document is intended to only describe particular modalities by way of example, and it is not intended to limit the claimed subject.
[0056] As used in the specification, including the appended claims, the forms in the singular "one", "one" and "the" include the plural, and reference to a specific numerical value includes at least that particular value, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term "plurality", as used in the present invention, means more than one. When a range of values is expressed, another modality includes a certain value and / or the other particular value. Likewise, when the values are expressed as approximations, when using the predecessor “about”, it will be understood that the specific value forms another modality. All tracks are combinable and inclusive. Examples
[0057] The algae used in the following examples, their growth media and the culture method before sowing in the photobioreactors are described below: Seaweed species used in the following examples
[0058] Chlorella sp. and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii freshwater and Synechococcus PCC 7002 (marine), Synechococcus 7942 (freshwater), Nannochloris sp., Nannochloropsis spp. sochrysis sp. CS-177, Pavlovalutheri, Phaeodactylum tricornutum and Tetraselmis chuiiare, used in the examples below. Growing algae for sowing
[0059] The algae were grown internally in 2 L polyethylene sleeves. A constant temperature regime was maintained at 23 ° C, the light: dark cycle was established at 16: 8 h, with a light intensity of 200 μEinsteins m -2s-1. The cultures were mixed by aeration using 4% CO2 mixed in the air during the day and supplied to the cultures at a controlled rate through the aeration system to maintain the pH at 7. During the dark period, only air was bubbled through. Culture mediums:
[0060] Species of seaweed and Synechococcus PCC 7002 were grown in the laboratory in 0.45 μm ultra-filtered salt water enriched with F / 2 nutrient enrichment (Guillard and Ryther, 1962), and in an external environment, a mixture of commercial fertilizers it was diluted 1000 times with UV sterilized salt water. The concentrated commercial fertilizer contained (in meq.) 703 NO3-, 268 NH4 +, 213 P2O5, 771 K2O, 604 Ca + 2, 229 Mg + 2, 13 Fe + 2, 6.6 Mn + 2, 2.8 Zn + 2, 0.4 Cu + 2, 0.2 Mo (calculated based on the supplier's brochure). Chlamydomonas reinhardtiiwas was grown in TAP culture medium ultrafiltered by 0.45 μm membrane (Gorman and Levine, 1965). Synechococcus 7942 was grown in BG11 culture medium ultrafiltered on 0.45 μm membrane (http://www.crbip.pasteur.fr/fiches/fichemedium.jsp id=539, accessed on June 1, 2012) . Example 1 Proof of Concept Laboratory
[0061] As indicated in figure 11, a large plastic tank filled 2/3 with water was fitted with a 4x4 cm wooden plate, the width of the tank with a rod mounted perpendicular to the center of a long side of the plate. The rod was assembled through a plastic tube just larger than the rod, acting as a bearing to ensure up and down movement. The rod was attached to the eccentric cam through a short rod with bearings at both ends, a slow and adjustable motor, so that when the motor was activated, the up and down movement on the plate generated waves.
[0062] Insulation rings are welded ca. 1 cm below the seams on the food grade polyethylene sleeve with sealed ends (usually, but not exclusively) 0.5 mm thick), so that it could be connected freely or with a flat spring on the water, with strips of thick rubber. Several sealable ports are inserted in the upper plate of the sleeve: an inlet to the middle, an inlet for CO2, an outlet with a pressure valve that keeps the air space inflated and releases excess gas and an inlet through which a mini electrode pH is inserted with its tip near the bottom of the smooth sleeve. In several experiments, algae at a density of ca. 108 cells / ml and an absorbance at 695 nm ca. 3.0 (based on a 1 cm light path) are introduced (actual values depend on the species used). In various analyzes, freshwater Chlamydomonas and Chlorella, Nannochloropsis and marine Nannochloris algae and freshwater Synechococcus 7942 (cyanobacteria) are used. In several experiments, a 3 to 7 mm layer of algae was introduced. The air space of the mango above the algae was flushed with 100% CO2 and then using a flow valve at a rate of 10 liters per hour. The pH electrode inserted in the algae suspension was fixed to an aquarium pH controller, which is used to start the engine that creates the waves when the photosynthetic use of carbon dioxide reaches pH above 7.5, and the generator of wave remains on until the pH is reduced to 6.5.
[0063] The container below the algae has heat exchanger cooling coils attached to a pump and commercial water cooler, allowing the temperature control of the water below the suspended sleeve to grow each species at its ideal temperature.
[0064] The experiments are carried out for four days, with the daily removal of samples and measurements of cell density. The volume of algae to remove with the subsequent addition of an equal volume of fresh medium is calculated to return to the initial cell density.
[0065] The algae and cyanobacteria that were mixed by waves grew close to the maximum rate with almost the best possible yields with bubbling CO2. Control algae grown static, grown without wave movements, failed to grow. Example 2 Proof of the larger scale pilot experimental concept, choice of the best plastics
[0066] The same design with a slightly more sophisticated device is tested on a large scale with parallel modules. Each module is a meter tube partially sunk 40 cm ca. 1 x 2 (inflatable swimming pools for children). Photobioreactors are attached to the sides of the tubes at a water level with flexible cables, to allow the waves to mix the algae. Wave generators with adjustable wave amplitude, wave frequency and period are used, similar to figure 3. Wave generators are mounted on a module on the short end, on a module along one side of the long side, on a module on both short sides and a module on both long ends. This allows the generation of all waveforms and the measurement of their damping at a distance, with various types of synchrony and asynchrony to determine the ways of transferring carbon dioxide from airspace to the most efficient algae containing medium, from one energetic point of view. The photosynthesis of algae is tested at various temperatures in the subtended water, knowing that the solubility of carbon dioxide decreases at higher temperatures. A more sensitive pH measurement device and wave action is installed in these photobioreactors than in example 1, to shorten the periods between wave action, while keeping the number of waves approximately equal. This narrowing of the pH range to (in most cases) a pH 6.8-6.5 to switch on / off also facilitates the best continuous suspension of the algae.
[0067] The standard 0.5 mm slightly narrower plastic bottom is welded with several plastic covers as the top part: 1. Standard non-toxic covers of several laminated plastics, with an anti-UV coating to protect the top plastic. 2. Similar plastics, but specially designed to have a low beta value; that is, to pass oxygen preferably over the passage of carbon dioxide. 3. Similar plastics, but with an infrared reflective coating. 4. Similar plastics with diffusive (anti-reflective) outer coatings that transmit low and early morning / late afternoon light to algae. 5. Similar plastics with anti-drip internal coatings, to avoid the formation of drops that reflect the received light. 6. Dust-repellent plastics. 7. Combinations of the above.
[0068] In addition to the pH electrode in the medium (which basically measures the carbon dioxide in the medium), oxygen and carbon dioxide measurement electrodes, the measurement electrodes are inserted into the air space, allowing direct measurement of photosynthesis. In this configuration, there was no continuous CO2 input and gas phase bleeding as in example 1, with the supply being discontinuous based on the measurements.
[0069] An automatic sampling system removes samples at scheduled intervals and reads the absorbance at 650 and 735 nm, which measures algae growth, and an increase in the 735/650 nm ratio indicates microbial contamination and / or cell rupture.
[0070] Information of all sensors / samples, as well as the start / stop time of wave generators, together with incident light, temperature and algae density measurements are fed into a multichannel data logger for further analysis, optimization during experimental analysis and future design considerations. Finally, the results help to decide the ideal moment of collection; daily or more than once during the day, to better capture solar energy. The sensor signals, when the cultures increased by increasing the preprogrammed density, will increase, the oxygen vent is briefly closed and the collection valve open, and a portion of the algae is removed under the highest air pressure, the vent is reopened and an equal volume of fresh medium is introduced. The same collection technology is used in other experiments.
[0071] Although higher plants interrupt photosynthesis when the air contains> 30% oxygen, this does not occur with algae grown at a high pCO2. It is necessary to check the level of oxygen that each species can support in a high concentration of CO2 before it is necessary to ventilate the air space, and if plastics with low beta values currently available will pass oxygen fast enough. This system allows the optimization of parameters for when pure carbon dioxide is used (from the separation of natural gas before liquefaction to liquefied natural gas). CO2 feeds 4% in the air (similar to flue gas from natural gas burning plants) and a mixture of 14% CO2 (6% oxygen, 80% nitrogen) representing purified flue gas from power plants powered by coal are also tested, as this is available in some locations.
[0072] No individual plastic is ideal in all cultural and economic situations. UV coatings prolong the life of use and increase the cost of plastic. In cases where plastics with a short half-life are more economical or desirable for other reasons, then the additional cost for UV protection is not justified. Where cooling is cheap and / or algae or cyanobacteria of ideal high temperature are used, the concomitant partial loss of some amount of photosynthetically active light and the additional cost of infrared-reflecting plastics may be contraindicated. Dust-repellent plastics are unnecessary in areas of high rainfall, but almost mandatory in dusty deserts. Thus, the results of the plastic study are applied to different locations.
[0073] Likewise, the results of different types of wave movement allow optimization for different species and growth systems. Larger size species require more mixing energy to remain suspended; high amplitude waves can cause light to reach open areas if the algae layer is too shallow; but the more superficial the layer, the better the CO2 diffusion and the denser the algae suspension that can be cultivated. The synchronism between the wave pulses and the wave amplitude are determined experimentally to verify the ideal time and amplitude, to configure the wave generators, so that shear waves are generated, which mix the algae layer. These shear waves increase the gas - algae interface, facilitating efficient gas exchange between air space and algae growth medium, decreasing the amount of energy that needs to be spent to dissolve carbon dioxide from air space to the medium. and removing excess dissolved oxygen from the medium.
[0074] Likewise, there is no single preferred depth of heat exchanger water below photobioreactors for all uses. In areas with cold nights, greater depth is useful, as sufficient heat of the day can be stored to keep algae warm at night and require less cooling water during the day; algae that are warm at dawn start photosynthesis earlier in the day and may decrease the need to add cooler water due to cold nights. Likewise, the difference between the temperature of the water available for cooling and the ideal temperature for the growth of algae (which is species specific and can be genetically modified) must be compared to decide the depth of the water.
[0075] The results indicate considerable savings in terms of capital costs (compressors, aerators, superstructure) in relation to the other closed systems, with the present invention of bioreactor. There are even more projected savings in operating costs; less sterile medium, better cooling, and less waste of carbon dioxide. Example 3 Finned Bottom Photobioreactors
[0076] The photobioreactors in this example are identical to those in example 2, except that flexible plastic fins are attached to the lower plastic, as described in figures 4 and 5. The fins are agitated by the waves, so that they amplify the effect of the waving waves or by shaking the bottom plastic of the photobioreactor. The different heights and lengths of the photobioreactor fins and the distances between the fins are checked, as well as the cost results as well as the manufacturing costs. energy savings, which will be different for different locations and different for different algae. The distance between the fins is determined experimentally to determine the ideal distances, in order to generate shear waves that mix the layers of algae. These shear waves that form increase the gas-algae interface, facilitating efficient gas exchange between airspace and the algae growth medium, decreasing the amount of energy that needs to be spent to dissolve airspace carbon dioxide. into the medium and remove excess dissolved oxygen from the medium.
[0077] The fins can be solid or hollow and will have the additional advantage of overcoming the slope in the middle of the TLPBR due to the weight of the plastic, the algae and the slight pressure inflicted by the lower pressure in the air space. The use of hollow fins helps their buoyancy and resistance. Example 4 Wave generation by piezoelectric activated wires
[0078] Piezoelectric devices are among the most energy efficient ways of generating vibrations. Miniature vibrations in a thin layer of medium may be sufficient to effect the exchange of CO2 gas from air space to the medium. In this case, the movement of the waves is not necessary and the subtended water will serve only as a temperature stabilizer, and not also as a mechanical mixer.
[0079] Piezoelectric wires are incorporated into the laminated lower plastic at various distances during the manufacture of the plastic plate (figure 6A) or individual transducers are incorporated inside (figure 6B) or connected below the photobioreactor (not shown). Otherwise, the photobioreactor construction is the same as in example 2. The algae are introduced into the photobioreactors as a dense suspension in a thin layer of 2.5 to 5 mm, except for a slightly sunken chamber made for the tip of the electrode. pH. The experiments in these photobioreactors must be submitted for a longer time to verify the effect of vibrations on the various plastics.
[0080] A similar long-term experiment is set up with the photobioreactor resting on the piezoelectric wires and not incorporated into the plastic. The wires are activated with different energies to vary the amplitude of the minions formed in the algae layer.
[0081] The wires can be stretched the width of the bioreactors and remain stretched to avoid tilting and maintain the level of the bioreactor. Not all vibrational energy will be spent on the thin layer of algae. Part of the vibrational energy will be spent on the subtended cooling water, and in doing so, heat exchange is facilitated.
[0082] Results vary from seaweed to seaweed, with different layer thicknesses and ideal energies in different cases.
[0083] The value of this system will depend on the cost of large-scale production of the embedded plastic cover of the wire or alternative vs. external wires. energy savings compared to waves, as well as the value of algae grown.
[0084] The synchronism of the pulses applied to the driven piezoelectric wires is defined so that they generate shear waves that mix the algae layer. These shear waves that are formed increase the gas - algae interface, facilitating the efficient gas exchange between air space and the algae growth medium. Example 5 Wave generation by minivibrators attached to the lower plastic
[0085] Mini-vibrating devices are highly energy-efficient in generating vibrations. Miniature vibrations in a thin layer of medium may be sufficient to effect the exchange of CO2 gas from air space to the medium. In this case, the movement of the waves is not necessary and the subtended water will serve only as a temperature stabilizer, and not also as a mechanical mixer.
[0086] The mini-vibrators and their power wires are incorporated into the laminated bottom plastic at various distances during the manufacture of the plastic plate (figure 7), glued to the bottom of the photobioreactors (figure 8A). Otherwise, the construction of the photobioreactor is the same as in example 4. The algae are introduced into the photobioreactors at 2 to 4 times the density, but up to a thin layer of 2.5 to 5 mm, except that a slightly sunken chamber is made to the tip of the pH electrode. The experiments in these photobioreactors must be submitted for a longer duration to verify the effect of vibrations on the plastic.
[0087] Not all vibrational energy will be spent on the thin layer of algae. Part of the vibrational energy will be spent on the subtended cooling water, and in doing so, heat exchange is facilitated.
[0088] Results vary from seaweed to seaweed, with different layer thicknesses and ideal energies in different cases.
[0089] The value of this system will depend on the cost of large-scale production of the vibrators and their wires embedded in the plastic cover vs. energy savings compared to waves, as well as the value of algae grown.
[0090] The moment of a single operation of the minivibrator is defined so that the crossing of a wave over it results in the intensification and rarefaction of the algae layer, causing shear waves. These shear waves that are formed increase the gas - algae interface, facilitating the efficient gas exchange between air space and the algae growth medium. The process is detailed in figure 7, in which the activation of the device is programmed when it is traversed by a sonic pulse wave and, thus, produces the shear waves and turbulent vortexes that promote the gas-algae mixture.
[0091] Example 6 Wave generation by minivibrators fixed on support rods with U-shaped plastic contours
[0092] Mini-vibrating devices are highly energy-efficient in generating vibrations. Miniature vibrations in a thin layer of medium may be sufficient to effect the exchange of CO2 gas from air space to the medium. In this case, the movement of the waves is not necessary and the subtended water will serve only as a temperature stabilizer, and not also as a mechanical mixer.
[0093] The mini-vibrators and their electric power wires are incorporated in U-shaped plastic profiles (similar to those used for external electrical conduits mounted on the walls) with polystyrene filling filling the rest of the space in the profiles, so that the profiles they are lighter than water. The profiles are mounted under the laminated lower plastic at various distances, providing a leveling effect, avoiding inclination (figure 8B). Otherwise, the construction of the photobioreactor is the same as in example 4. The algae are introduced into the photobioreactors at 2 to 4 times the density, but up to a thin layer of 2.5 to 5 mm, except that a slightly sunken chamber is made to the tip of the pH electrode. The experiments in these photobioreactors must be submitted for a longer duration to verify the effect of vibrations on the plastic. The moment and spacing of the operation of the adjacent mini-vibrators is predefined, so that the crossing of a wave over it results in the intensification and rarefaction of the algae layer, as it causes shear waves (figure 8B), or hydrophones are mounted that provide feedback located to provide the same effect (figures 8C and 8D).
[0094] These shear waves that are formed increase the gas - algae interface and, thus, facilitate the efficient gas exchange between air space and the algae growth medium.
[0095] Not all vibrational energy will be spent on the thin layer of algae. Part of the vibrational energy will be spent on the subtended cooling water, and in doing so, heat exchange is facilitated.
[0096] Results vary from seaweed to seaweed, with different layer thicknesses and ideal energies in different cases.
[0097] The value of this system will depend on the cost of large-scale production of the vibrators and their wires embedded in the plastic cover vs. energy savings compared to waves, as well as the value of algae grown.
[0098] An estimate of the relative cost advantage over other photobioreactor configurations for installations of one hectare (see table 5 below) and 100 hectares (see table 6 below) clearly shows the economic superiority of the system. Table 5 Costs of biomass production per unit for basins and photobioreactors for 1 Ha

Data for water channel, tubular and flat plate photobioreactors from N.-H. Norsker et al. Biotechnology Advances 29 (2011) 24-27 Table 6 Biomass production costs per unit for basins and photobioreactors for 100 Ha

Data for water channel, tubular and flat plate photobioreactors from N.-H. Norsker et al. Biotechnology Advances 29 (2011) 24-27
[0099] Due to the fact that the basic economic data are from a temperate climate, where algae is less likely to be commercially cultivated, a sensitivity analysis was made comparing with a more tropical scenario in table 7. The economic advantage of the present system is still more accentuated from this analysis. Table 7. Sensitivity analysis. Biomass cost with different scenarios (100 ha installation)
Data for water channel, tubular and flat plate photobioreactors from N.-H. Norsker et al. Biotechnology Advances 29 (2011) 24-27 Example 7 - Preventing the inclination of the photobioreactor with floating closed subtended bubbles
[00100] An additional method of preventing slope caused by the slightly positive air pressure used to create the air space, as well as the weight of the mini vibrators or piezoelectrically activated wires as an alternative to rigid fins (example 3) or rigid profiles (example 6) is to fix the strips of bubble wrap at appropriate intervals at the bottom of the bottom plate. These are connected in such a way that the distances are sufficient to maintain a level close to the surface for the cultivation of algae in the photobioreactor, but sufficiently distant to not excessively hamper the heat exchange with the subtended water (figure 9). Example 8 - Wave generation by vibrating agitation from a rigid bottom
[00101] An alternative to the waves induced by the minivibrator or very efficient transducer to promote the algae - gas mixture and which is less dependent on complex electronic controls is the vibrating agitation of a rigid bottom photobioreactor. Such chemical stirring solutions is a known process in the processing and development of photographic plates. Its application in mixing algae and gas on a large scale in a thin film bioreactor is new. The increase in area between CO2 gas and algae slurry caused by the transverse wave should allow more gas to be absorbed by the algae. This configuration is achievable by making the photobioreactor structure more rigid with a lattice-like structure that supports the frame structure at its center to form a fulcrum and install countermovement triggers at the ends of the frame. The increase in the gas-algae interface in the photobioreactor is achieved by flexible vertical pins resembling a fakir's bed in the bioreactor well. The range of amplitude of agitation at the ends of the photobioreactor is about twice the thickness of the algae slurry layer. The frequency of agitation is defined to promote a wave that dampens considerably when it reaches the opposite side, so as not to form a wave or standing waves in the slurry. The frame that crosses the ventral side of the photobioreactor basin is made of rigid plastic tubing contained in U-shaped channels that are then formed in the frame beam, or by using plastic plates 1 to 3 mm thick ( eg recycled polycarbonate) with molded ridges to increase rigidity. The balance configuration is described schematically in figure 10.
[00102] Although the examples above and the following descriptions may be directed to one or more certain configurations of the thin layer photobioreactor, it should be understood that the present subject is not limited to any specific configuration and can be used in several reactors with several geometric shapes that can support or create a thin layer of floating microalgae in a cooling solution, with carbon dioxide mixed in the middle by the movement of waves, without the need to bubble carbon dioxide. The buoyancy is maintained by having an air space above the algae and by leveling the cooling water by horizontal wires stretched through bioreactors and / or plastic bubbles attached to the rows along the length of the photobioreactor. Production-scale photobioreactors can be 3 to 20 meters, but they are preferably 4 to 5 meters wide and 5 to 500 meters or more (but preferably 15 to 250) meters long, built from of plastic sheets welded with the lower and upper plates having different properties, with the spaced insulation rings welded at fixed intervals for flexible mooring sides, and doors inserted for the control instrumentation and for the introduction of means and collection.
[00103] In most modalities, the supply of carbon dioxide to "airspace" is any pure carbon dioxide (for example, separated from natural gas before liquefying natural gas), which is the preferred source, or gas of decontaminated coal combustion or gas-powered energy generation or other industrial sources containing ca. 4 to 14% carbon dioxide. Purification is routinely necessary to remove sulfur compounds, phytotoxic heavy metals and, in some cases, hydrocarbons or organic molecules.
[00104] In the preferred modalities, carbon dioxide is mixed using a subtended motion generated by a wave making machine similar in concept to those used to generate waves in swimming pools (but which generate waves of much lower amplitude) or by wires of vibration operated piezoelectrically incorporated in at fixed distances in or in the bottom layer of plastic, by small vibrators fixed in the bottom side of the bottom plastic, or by a natural wave movement. The wave movement can be increased by vibrating fins mounted on the underside of the plastic at right angles to the wave movement. The nanopiezoelectric wire configuration is used as a power transducer to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy. The wiring of piezoelectric elements such as nanofilaments is fixed or embedded as an array of orthogonally placed wires, forming a grid. By sequentially applying the voltages to each submerged piezoelectric wire, wave movements are produced, whereby the nodes and antinodes (crests and depressions) of the resulting waves have different wavelengths and positions. The dimensions and frequency of surface waves vary by varying the sequence of electrical energy signals applied to each piezoelectric wire fiber to assess the introduction of more energy-efficient carbon dioxide from the air space into the air. culture medium without causing damage to algae. Once the filaments are orthogonally oriented (that is, in the form of a grid), varying the sequence of application of electrical energy to the filaments, columns with wave peaks resembling a histogram, eddies, etc., are created. The waves are generated by durations and frequencies so that CO2 adjusts the pH of the growth medium to pH 6.5 to 7.5, the ideal range for most algae or cyanobacteria (or other pH ranges for organisms with others) ideal pHs) by dissolving CO2 in the middle of the airspace, since it has been demonstrated that the potential rate of photosynthesis is very fast for the simple diffusion of the airspace to be sufficient, even in layers with 3 to 5 mm of thickness.
[00105] In one embodiment, the electrical energy to supply the mixture can come directly from the photovoltaic panels with the minimum battery storage required, since both the CO2 rate photosynthetically used (and therefore necessary to facilitate mixing) and the rate of photovoltaic energy generation depends on the solar intensity and, therefore, there will be the greatest power available at the peak at a time of peak need, to supply power to the DC operating wave generators and the medium metering pumps.
[00106] In the modalities where the waves are artificially generated, the synchronism and amplitude of the wave pulses can be defined so that they generate shear waves that mix the algae layer. These shear waves that are formed increase the gas - algae interface, facilitating the efficient gas exchange between air space and the algae growth medium.
[00107] Where natural wave motion is used, the current lines are tightened or loosened to achieve the same mixing effect. Due to minimal gas flow out of the system (unlike bubbling, continuous opening photobioreactors, or wave “obstructions” for movement and ventilation), there is little water loss due to evaporation and a much less need for addition fresh water to compensate for salinization.
[00108] In terrestrial modalities of technology, the flow rate of the subtended water is controlled to maintain an ideal (economical) temperature for the algae. The depth of the water will vary from climate to climate; with deeper waters being used where day / night temperature fluctuations are greatest; to store heat to keep the algae warmer at night and at an ideal photosynthetic temperature early in the morning, moving and replacing the smallest amount of water needed. When the body of water is a reservoir of drinking water or irrigation, the presence of bioreactors reduces the loss of water through evaporation, and the lack of light prevents algae and cyanobacteria from proliferating and producing toxins and other undesirable metabolites.

权利要求:
Claims (17)
[0001]
i. Photobioreactor for the cultivation and growth of microalgae characterized by comprising: ii. a flexible plastic cover that conducts visible, thin, sealed light (20) comprising an upper plastic cover panel and a lower plastic cover panel, the upper plastic cover panel and the lower plastic cover panel collectively forming a sealed tubular flat container, whereby one side of the lower plastic cover panel floats on the surface of a temperature modulator water body (7A), and the other side of the lower plastic cover and panel is coated with microalgae (5) inside an aqueous medium forming a thin aqueous layer of microalgae that is less than 1 cm thick, and where said upper plastic cover panel is kept above the thin aqueous layer of microalgae (5) due to the space of slightly inflated air (4), which also provides buoyancy to the system; iii. the space between an upper surface of said thin aqueous layer of microalgae (5) and the inner surface of said upper plastic layer panel forming a gas space (4) and being maintained in predetermined proportions of carbon dioxide to oxygen; iv. . a light source; v. . a vibration generating system (9, 15, 18, 19, 25) mounted on said lower plastic cover panel, said vibration generating system comprising more than one vibration generating element arranged to generate waves close to the shear (41, 42) at the point where the waves of each pulse of the respective vibration generating element meet, said vibration generating system (9, 15, 18, 19, 25) oscillates said lower plastic cover panel causing oscillation of said thin aqueous layer of microalgae (5); wherein said near shear waves (41, 42) are generated in order to directly or indirectly stir the thin aqueous layer of microalgae (5), thereby increasing the exposure of said microalgae within said thin aqueous layer of microalgae to the gas phase (4), facilitating the absorption of carbon dioxide; saw. a gas pressure generating system (10H) for increasing the partial gas pressure of the gas space (4); vii. a device adapted to agitate the water body and the microalgae layer (5) in the bioreactor, in which agitation facilitates a gas exchange between the microalgae layer and the air space, in which the gas exchange does not require bubbling, and viii . inlet and outlet openings.
[0002]
2. Process for the cultivation and growth of microalgae characterized by comprising the steps of: (a) providing a photobioreactor comprising: i. a flexible plastic cover that conducts visible, thin sealed light comprising an upper plastic cover panel and a lower plastic cover panel, the upper plastic cover panel and the lower plastic cover panel collectively forming a flat container sealed tubular, whereby a face of the lower plastic cover panel (20) floats on the surface of a temperature modulator water body (7A), and a face of the lower plastic cover panel floats on the surface of a body of temperature modulator (7A) and where said panel of the upper plastic layer is kept above the other side of the panel of the lower plastic layer due to the slightly inflated air space (4), where the other space of slightly inflated air also provides buoyancy to the system; ii. the air space (4) between an upper surface of said other face of the lower plastic cover panel and an inner surface of said upper plastic cover panel forms a gas space (4), and is maintained in predetermined proportions of carbon dioxide for oxygen; iii. a light source; iv. a vibration generating system (9, 15, 18, 19, 25, 32, 36) mounted on said lower plastic cover panel, said vibration generating system comprising more than one vibration generating element arranged to generate waves close to the shear at the point where the waves of each pulse of the respective vibration generating element meet; v. a gas pressure generator system (10H) in fluid communication with air space; saw. a stirring device (9, 15, 18, 19, 25, 32, 36), and vii. inlet and outlet openings (2, 3, 6, 10); (b) covering the other side of the lower plastic cover panel with a microalgae (5) inside an aqueous medium forming a thin aqueous layer of microalgae that is less than 1 cm in thickness; (c) float the first face of the plastic cover over the surface of a heat exchanger water body (7A); (d) shake the plastic cover using more than one vibration generating element (9, 15, 18, 19, 25, 32, 36), causing vibrations, thus generating a wave motion in the said microalgae layer, with the agitation creating said waves close to the shear (41); (e) facilitating the dissolution of carbon dioxide from the gas space (4) in the aqueous layer of algae (5) by increasing a pressure within the gas space (4); (f) exposing the aqueous microalgae layer to light through said upper plastic cover panel, which remains above the aqueous microalgae layer due to the slightly inflated air space (4); (g) facilitate the gas exchange between the aqueous microalgae layer (5) and the air space (4) by combining the exposure of the aqueous microalgae layer to pressurized gas (10R) in the air space and circulating the aqueous microalgae layer using the waves close to the shear (41), where the process does not need to bubble; and (h) replacing said aqueous medium through an opening in the system (3), thereby forcing a portion of said microalgae of said aqueous microalgae layer to leave the photobioreactor through an outlet (10) due to the flow of the aqueous medium and the gas pressure exerted on the photobioreactor, thus facilitating the collection of microalgae through said outlet.
[0003]
Photobioreactor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said microalgae include at least one of algae, cyanobacteria and small aquatic plants selected from Phaeodactylum tricornutum, Amphiprora hyaline, Amphora spp., Chaetoceros muelleri, Navicula saprophila, Nitzschia spp., Nitzschia communis, dimorphus Scenedesmus, Scenedesmus obliquus, suecica Tetraselmis, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, Chlorella vulgaris, Haematococcus pluvialis, Neochloris oleoabundans, elongates Synechococcus PCC6301, Botryococcus braunii, gloeobacter violaceus PCC7421, Synechococcus PCC7002, Synechococcus PCC7942, Synechocystis PCC6803, Thermosynechococcus elongates BP-1, Nannochloropsis oculata, Nannochloropsis salina, Nannochloropsis spp., Nannochloropsis gaditana, Isochrysis aff. galbana, Aphanocapsa sp., Botryococcus sudeticus, Euglena gracilis, Nitzschia palea, Pleurochrysis carterae, Tetraselmis chuii, Pavlova spp. and Nannochloris spp. as representatives of all species of algae and cyanobacteria, as well as small floating plants of the Lemnaceae family.
[0004]
Photobioreactor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the wave amplifying fins (13) are fixed below said face of the lower plastic cover.
[0005]
Photobioreactor, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the thickness of the microalgae coating (5) is in the range of 2.5 to 5.0 mm.
[0006]
6. Photobioreactor, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a culture medium is maintained at a predetermined pH (10L) for each species of algae by controlling the amount of acidifying dissolved carbon dioxide, by regulating the waves close to shear (41).
[0007]
7. Photobioreactor, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the temperature of the water body is maintained at a predetermined temperature (10J) for each species of algae through the use of heat exchange with the underlying water (7A) over which the photobioreactor floats.
[0008]
8. Photobioreactor, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said exposure is one of sunlight, increased sunlight with artificial lighting or artificial lighting.
[0009]
Photobioreactor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the vibration generating system further comprises piezoelectric wires (15).
[0010]
Photobioreactor, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the vibration generating system (9, 15, 18, 19, 25, 32, 36) also comprises mechanical machines of low amplitude waves that are incorporated or joined to the said side of the lower plastic cover panel (19).
[0011]
11. Photobioreactor, according to claim 2, characterized in that said agitation of the algal medium is generated by minivibrators (19), resulting in waves close to the shear in the aqueous medium.
[0012]
12. Photobioreactor, according to claim 2, characterized in that said agitation of the algal medium is generated by hydrophonically generated acoustic pulses (19, 21, 2529), resulting in waves close to the shear in the aqueous medium.
[0013]
13. Photobioreactor, according to claim 3, characterized in that said algae are at least one of: Chlorella spp. freshwater, Chlamydomonas remhardtii, Synechococcus PCC 7002 (marine), Synechococcus 7942 (freshwater), Nannochloris spp marine, Nannochloropsis spp., Isochrysis sp. CS-177, Pavlova lutheri, Phaeodactylum tricornutum or Tetraselmis cop.
[0014]
14. Photobioreactor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said flexible plastic covering that conducts visible, thin light (20) is manufactured including at least one of the following polymers: polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, polyester, polycarbonate, polyamide, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, polystyrene, butadiene and styrene copolymers, polyurethane, polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylate, copolymers, mixed laminations and combinations of said polymers and one of: mixtures with plasticizers, minerals, pesticides and antioxidants and pesticides , minerals, pesticides and antioxidants.
[0015]
Photobioreactor, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said cover panel (20) is made of a material that limits the evaporation of and production of algae and cyanobacterial toxins in the reservoirs.
[0016]
16. Photobioreactor according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the flexible plastic cover that conducts visible light (20) has a low beta value with a much higher permeability to oxygen than to carbon dioxide.
[0017]
17. Process according to claim 2, characterized in that said photobioreactor is suitable for growing small aquatic plants, including Lemnacea.

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法律状态:
2018-03-06| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|

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2018-03-13| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|

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2018-03-20| B06I| Publication of requirement cancelled [chapter 6.9 patent gazette]|Free format text: ANULADA A PUBLICACAO CODIGO 6.6.1 NA RPI NO 2462 DE 13/03/2018 POR TER SIDO INDEVIDA. |

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2019-10-15| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|

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2020-04-07| B06A| Patent application procedure suspended [chapter 6.1 patent gazette]|

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2020-09-15| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|

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2020-12-15| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 22/10/2013, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |

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US61/795,661|2012-10-22|

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