Harvesting micro algae

Abstract

A reusable composite paramagnetic particle may comprise a paramagnetic core encased by a protective material to which is grafted a tendril layer comprising a plurality of polymeric chains. The polymeric chains may be designed to interact with a microorganism. The interaction between the microorganism and the polymeric chain may be electrostatic. The nanoparticle may be used in a method to isolate or recover microorganisms from solutions using an externally applied magnetic field.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. provisional application 61 / 297,533 filed Jan. 22, 2010, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The present application is related to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 12 / 704,416, filed Feb. 11, 2010, titled NANOPARTICLES, COMPOSITIONS THEREOF, AND METHODS OF USE, AND METHODS OF MAKING THE SAME.BACKGROUND[0002]The subject technology relates generally to devices and methods for isolating microorganisms.[0003]Microorganisms have many commercial applications. Bacteria, fungi, and algae may be used in various applications for the production of pharmaceuticals, food, supplements, and even fuel. For example, algae have applications in pharmaceutical, food, and biofuel production.[0004]Microalgae is a term that may be used to distinguish single-celled, generally microscopic algae from multicellular algae. Algae may be found ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0014]The currently disclosed composite particle may be mass-produced at low cost and in some embodiments the particle is capable of re-use. In some embodiments the present method may require little or no post-harvest processing in order to remove chemicals, reagents, or materials. In various other embodiments, the method may involve a de-watering step which may require little maintenance, result in high concentration factors, consume little energy, and be operated continuously. Finally in many embodiments the currently claimed method may have little or no adverse effect on downstream processes.

Problems solved by technology

For example, at present microalgae harvesting techniques may limit their successful commercialization in the production of microalgae-based biofuels.

Some characteristics of microalgae may present challenges for their efficient harvest.

Each of the present harvesting techniques may have limitations.

For example, centrifugation and ultrasound sedimentation may be slow processes with concomitantly high operation costs; filtration may be subject to clogging and shortened run times; flotation may require use of surfactants that may hamper downstream processes; and flocculation may require various chemical additives such as pro-oxidants (to induce liberation of extracellular organic matter), electrolytes (e.g. chitosan), or Al- and Fe-based compounds (to neutralize the surface charge and aid cell-to-cell adhesion).

Chemicals used in some of these (such as flocculation or flotation) may inhibit microalgae growth and may be detrimental for continuous growth-harvest cycled operation.

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