Mechanistic model for design, analysis, operation and control of microalgae cultures: Calibration and application to tubular photobioreactors

Abstract

Closed photobioreactors (PBRs) are usually used for the production of high-value microalgae biomass at higher productivities than in open ponds. A large variety of different PBRs have been developed to optimize the biomass productivity and photosynthesis efficiency. At the same time mathematical models for PBRs are also increasing in popularity for design of new systems and for improving understanding of the complex processes occurring inside. The aim of the present study is to calibrate of the new mechanistic model for microalgae growth using experimental data from two different tubular photobioreactors. Hydrodynamic and light attenuation through the medium were added in the model to obtain a realistic representation of photobioreactor. Furthermore, the model was able to predict microalgae production under different climatic conditions and the oxygen accumulation throughout the photobioreactor.