Photobioreactor

Abstract

The photobioreactor comprises a box body, a light source assembly and an aeration module, a containing cavity is formed in the box body, the light source assembly is detachably arranged in the containing cavity, a light source is arranged in an outer cylinder, the outer wall of the outer cylinder gradually inclines towards the box body from bottom to top, and an aeration pipe is located below the light source assembly. When the aeration pipe performs upward aeration, as the outer wall of the outer cylinder is in an inclined state, bubbles always rise along the outer wall surface of the box body, so that the bubbles strongly scour the outer wall of the outer cylinder in the rising process to prevent microalgae from growing on the outer wall of the outer cylinder in a wall-attached manner, and light generated by the light source assembly can penetrate through the outer cylinder to be emitted out. The light source assembly is arranged in the reactor, so that the effectiveness of illumination during long-term microalgae culture in the reactor is ensured, the light availability is improved, the microalgae can grow under sufficient illumination, the yield of the microalgae is improved, the illumination intensity of the light source assembly does not need to be improved, and the culture cost of the microalgae is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of microalgae cultivation, in particular to a photobioreactor. Background Art

[0002] Microalgae have become ideal raw materials for biofuels, food, medicine, environmental protection and other fields due to their efficient photosynthesis, rapid growth rate and ability to use carbon dioxide for carbon fixation. A photobioreactor is a reactor that uses gas to push fluid up and form a gas-liquid two-phase flow. Its basic working principle is to introduce gas (such as air or oxygen) into the bottom of the reactor, and when the bubbles rise, they drive the liquid to flow, generating gas upflow. Gas upflow can promote the mixing and mass transfer process inside the liquid, enhance the light utilization efficiency of microalgae, the transfer efficiency of nutrients, and help the contact between gas and liquid, thereby promoting the growth of microalgae.

[0003] In the actual cultivation process of microalgae, the growth of microalgae on the wall of the light-receiving surface of the reactor will cause serious shading problems, affecting the light availability in the reactor, and greatly reducing the algae yield. Increasing the light intensity to offset the light attenuation caused by shading will lead to energy waste and increased cultivation costs. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, the present invention provides a photobioreactor that can inhibit the growth of microalgae attached to the wall, improve light availability and microalgae yield, and reduce the cost of microalgae cultivation.

[0005] The photobioreactor according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises:

[0006] A box body, with a containing cavity inside;

[0007] A light source assembly is detachably disposed in the accommodating cavity, the light source assembly comprises an outer tube and a light source, the light source is disposed inside the outer tube, the outer tube is transparent, and the outer wall of the outer tube gradually inclines toward the box body from bottom to top;

[0008] The aeration module includes an aeration pipe, which is used for upward aeration. The aeration pipe is arranged in the accommodating cavity and is located below the light source assembly. The projection formed by the aeration pipe on the cross section does not exceed the projection formed by the light source assembly on the cross section, and the cross section is perpendicular to the height direction of the box.

[0009] The photobioreactor according to the embodiment of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0010] In the present invention, when the aeration pipe aerates upward, since the outer wall of the outer cylinder is in an inclined state, the bubbles always rise along the outer wall surface of the box body, so that the outer wall of the outer cylinder is strongly scoured during the rising process of the bubbles, so as to prevent the microalgae from growing on the outer wall of the outer cylinder. The light generated by the light source assembly can be emitted through the outer cylinder, thereby ensuring the effectiveness of illumination when the reactor cultivates microalgae for a long time, improving the light availability, allowing the microalgae to grow under sufficient light, and increasing the yield of microalgae. There is no need to increase the light intensity of the light source assembly, thereby reducing the cultivation cost of the microalgae.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the cross-sections of the outer cylinder and the box body are both circular, the cross-sections are perpendicular to the height direction of the box body, the aeration tube is set to be annular, the aeration tube is located directly below the light source assembly, and the radius of the aeration tube is R 1 , the radius of the outer cylinder is R 2 , where 1.05≤R 2 / R 1 ≤1.1;

[0012] Alternatively, the cross-sections of the outer cylinder and the box body are trapezoidal, the cross-sections are parallel to the height direction of the box body, and the aeration pipe is parallel to the side of the bottom surface of the outer cylinder and is located directly below the side of the bottom surface of the outer cylinder.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the light source assembly further includes a sensor probe, which is used to monitor environmental parameters in the accommodating cavity, and the sensor probe is disposed at the bottom of the outer tube.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the photobioreactor further includes a partition assembly, which includes a plurality of partitions arranged at intervals along the height direction of the box body, the partitions are located in the accommodating cavity, the partitions are surrounded by the outside of the outer tube, and there is a gap between the side of the partition facing away from the box body and the outer wall of the outer tube.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the partition assembly is detachably disposed in the accommodating cavity.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the partition assembly also includes a plurality of connecting rods, which are arranged at intervals around the circumference of the outer cylinder, each of the connecting rods is connected to a plurality of the partitions in sequence, the lower end of the connecting rod abuts against the bottom wall of the accommodating cavity, and the upper end of the connecting rod is magnetically connected to the box body.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, each of the partitions is provided with a plurality of through holes penetrating from top to bottom, and the opening rate of the partition is φ, wherein φ≤50%.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the light source assembly also includes a support rod, one end of the support rod is connected to the outer wall of the outer tube, the other end of the support rod is provided with a clamping portion, the clamping portion has an opening arranged downward, and the top end of the outer tube is provided with a recessed notch, and the clamping portion is inserted into the notch through the opening.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the light source assembly also includes a first cover plate and an output rod, wherein the first cover plate is detachably connected to the top of the outer tube and closes the inner cavity of the outer tube, the output rod is connected to the first cover plate, a lead channel is provided inside the output rod, the lead channel is connected to the inner cavity of the outer tube, and the lead channel is used to accommodate the wires connected to the light source assembly.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the photobioreactor further comprises a second cover plate, which is detachably connected to the top of the box body and closes the accommodating cavity.

[0021] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be given in part in the following description and in part will be obvious from the following description, or will be learned through practice of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, wherein:

[0023] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a photobioreactor of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a light source assembly in the illustrated embodiment;

[0025] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a box in the illustrated embodiment;

[0026] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the second cover plate in the illustrated embodiment;

[0027] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a photobioreactor of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a light source assembly in the illustrated embodiment;

[0029] Figure 7 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a baffle assembly in the illustrated embodiment;

[0030] Figure 8 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a box in the illustrated embodiment;

[0031] Fig. 9 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the second cover plate in the illustrated embodiment;

[0032] Fig.10 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of turbulent kinetic energy inside a photobioreactor in the illustrated embodiment;

[0033] Fig.11 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of flow rate inside the photobioreactor in the illustrated embodiment;

[0034] Fig.12 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of flow rate inside the photobioreactor in the illustrated embodiment;

[0035] Fig.13 for Figure 5 Schematic diagram of turbulent kinetic energy inside the photobioreactor in the illustrated embodiment.

[0036] Reference numerals:

[0037] Box body 100, accommodating chamber 110, liquid inlet pipe 120, liquid outlet pipe 130; light source assembly 200, outer cylinder 210, notch 211, light source 220, sensor probe 230, support rod 240, clamping part 241, opening 242, first cover plate 250, output rod 260; aeration module 300, aeration pipe 310, aeration pump 320, pipeline 320; partition assembly 400, partition 410, through hole 411, connecting rod 420, vertical part 421, horizontal part 422; second cover plate 500, buckle 510, notch 520, sealing ring 530, transmission hole 540. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and cannot be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0039] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that descriptions involving orientations, such as up, down, front, back, left, right, etc., and orientations or positional relationships indicated are based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as a limitation on the present invention.

[0040] In the description of the present invention, "several" means more than one, "many" means more than two, "greater than", "less than", "exceed", etc. are understood to exclude the number itself, and "above", "below", "within", etc. are understood to include the number itself. If there is a description of "first" or "second", it is only used for the purpose of distinguishing the technical features, and cannot be understood as indicating or implying the relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features or implicitly indicating the order of the indicated technical features.

[0041] In the description of the present invention, unless otherwise clearly defined, terms such as setting, installing, connecting, etc. should be understood in a broad sense, and technicians in the relevant technical field can reasonably determine the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific content of the technical solution.

[0042] In the description of the present invention, the description with reference to the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "illustrative embodiments", "examples", "specific examples", or "some examples" means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the schematic representation of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described may be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner.

[0043] Reference Figures 1 to 9 In an embodiment of the present invention, a photobioreactor (hereinafter referred to as reactor) is provided. The reactor includes a housing 100, a light source assembly 200 and an aeration module 300. A containing chamber 110 is provided inside the housing 100. The containing chamber 110 can contain algae liquid to provide a suitable growth environment for microalgae. The light source assembly 200 is located in the containing chamber 110. After being powered on, the light source assembly 200 can provide light for the microalgae to perform photosynthesis. During the aeration process of the aeration module 300, bubbles are generated in the nutrient solution. The turbulent disturbance formed can make the microalgae and the nutrient solution mix more fully, thereby improving the mass transfer efficiency.

[0044] Specifically, the light source assembly 200 includes an outer tube 210 and a light source 220. The light source 220 provides illumination after being powered on. The light source 220 is not limited to being set as an LED light bar, a light column, etc. The light source 220 is placed inside the outer tube 210, and the outer tube 210 is transparent. The outer tube 210 isolates the light source 220 from the algae liquid to ensure that the light source 220 can work normally, and the light emitted by the light source 220 can be emitted through the outer tube 210 to provide illumination for the growth of microalgae. In addition, since the outer tube 210 is transparent as a whole, the light emitted by the light source 220 can be emitted from the outer tube 210 in different directions, so that the microalgae at any position in the accommodating cavity 110 can receive light and perform photosynthesis.

[0045] The aeration module 300 includes an aeration tube 310, which can be connected to an external air source and aerate upward. The aeration tube 310 generates bubbles during aeration. During the upward movement of the bubbles, the microalgae and the nutrient solution are driven to turbulently mix, so as to facilitate gas-liquid mass transfer of the microalgae. In addition, during the rising process of the bubbles, the contact area between the gas and the liquid is larger, which is conducive to the dissolution of carbon dioxide and improves the photosynthesis efficiency of the microalgae. In this embodiment, the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 is gradually inclined from bottom to top toward the box body 100, the aeration pipe 310 is located below the light source assembly 200, and the projection formed by the aeration pipe 310 on the cross section does not exceed the projection formed by the light source assembly 200 on the cross section, and the cross section here refers to the cross section perpendicular to the height direction of the box body 100; in this way, when the aeration pipe 310 aerates upward, since the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 is in an inclined state, the bubbles always rise along the outer wall surface of the box body 100, so that the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 is strongly scoured during the rising process of the bubbles, so as to prevent the microalgae from growing on the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210, and the light generated by the light source assembly 200 can be emitted through the outer cylinder 210, so as to ensure the effectiveness of light illumination when the reactor cultivates microalgae for a long time, improve the light availability, enable the microalgae to grow under sufficient light, and improve the yield of microalgae, without increasing the light intensity of the light source assembly 200, thereby reducing the cultivation cost of microalgae.

[0046] The aeration module 300 further includes an aeration pump 320, which is connected to the aeration pipe 310 via a pipeline 320. One end of the pipeline 320 is connected to the aeration pump 320, and the other end is connected to the aeration pipe 310 at the bottom of the box 100. The aeration pump 320 supplies air to the aeration pipe 310 so that the aeration pipe 310 is aerated upward.

[0047] In one embodiment, the light source assembly 200 also includes a sensor probe 230, which is used to monitor the environmental parameters in the containing chamber 110 to facilitate active human intervention to prevent environmental parameters from affecting the growth and metabolism of microalgae. The environmental parameters are not limited to being set to the pH value of the nutrient solution, the nitrogen and phosphorus nutrient salt content, the temperature, etc., to provide a guarantee for the intelligent operation of the reactor; however, since the sensor probe 230 is immersed in the algae solution for a long time, the attachment and growth of microalgae on the sensor probe 230 will affect the accuracy of the monitoring data of the sensor probe 230 and the overall performance of the reactor. Based on this, in the present invention, the sensor probe 230 is arranged at the bottom of the outer cylinder 210, and the sensor probe 230 can be extended to the bottom of the outer cylinder 210 through the waterproof cover. The sensor probe 230 is in contact with the algae liquid during the cultivation of microalgae. The connection between the sensor probe 230 and the outer cylinder 210 is sealed, which has a waterproof effect. Since the sensor probe 230 is close to the aeration pipe 310, the turbulent disturbance generated by aeration can effectively prevent algae from adhering to and growing on the sensor probe 230, so that the monitoring of environmental parameters by the sensor probe 230 is not affected by the attachment of algae, thereby improving the accuracy of data monitoring by the sensor probe 230.

[0048] It should be noted that the reactor is not limited to being configured as a columnar reactor or a flat plate reactor. Figures 1 to 3 In the embodiment shown, the cross-sections of the outer cylinder 210 and the box body 100 are both circular, the cross-section here is perpendicular to the height direction of the box body 100, and the reactor structure is formed into a columnar reactor; the aeration tube 310 is set to be annular, and the aeration tube 310 is located directly below the light source assembly 200, that is, the center of the aeration tube 310 coincides with the projection of the center of the box body 100 toward the cross-section, and the top of the aeration tube 310 can be provided with a plurality of aeration holes arranged at intervals along its own circumference, and the gas in the aeration tube 310 is aerated outward through the aeration holes, so that the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 is subjected to uniform turbulent disturbance at all locations; the radius of the aeration tube 310 is defined as R 1 , the radius of the outer cylinder 210 is R 2 , where 1.05≤R 2 / R 1 ≤1.1, R 2 / R 1 The value is not limited to being set to 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.08, 1.09, 1.1, etc., that is, the outer diameter of the aeration tube 310 is larger than the outer diameter of the cross section at the lower end of the outer cylinder 210, so that the gas aerated by the aeration tube 310 will not interfere with the sensor probe 230, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the data monitoring by the sensor probe 230, and the bubbles can rise along the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210, so that the bubbles can flush the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 during the rising process, thereby preventing microalgae from attaching and growing on the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210, and ensuring that the light generated by the light source assembly 200 can be emitted through the outer cylinder 210.

[0049] Further, taking a columnar reactor as an example, the radius of the cross section at the upper end of the outer cylinder 210 is greater than the radius of the cross section at the lower end of the outer cylinder 210, and the radius of the maximum cross section of the outer cylinder 210 is defined as R m , the radius of the minimum cross section of the outer cylinder 210 is R n , then 1.1≤R m / R n ≤1.4, R m / R n The angle is not limited to 1.1, 1.15, 1.2, 1.25, 1.3, 1.35, 1.4, etc., so that the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 has a suitable inclination angle. On the one hand, it can prevent the bubbles from being subjected to excessive rising resistance due to excessive inclination of the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210, thereby affecting the mass transfer efficiency. On the other hand, it can ensure that the bubbles can rise along the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 and flush the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 to prevent microalgae from attaching and growing on the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210.

[0050] like Figure 5 and Figure 6In the illustrated embodiment, the cross-section of the outer cylinder 210 is trapezoidal, and the cross-section here is parallel to the height direction of the box body 100, and the reactor structure is formed into a flat reactor; it can be understood that the outer cylinder 210 includes two groups of side walls, each group includes two oppositely arranged side walls, one group of side walls is arranged in the length direction of the outer cylinder 210, and the other group of side walls is arranged in the width direction of the outer cylinder 210, that is, the cross-section of the outer cylinder 210 in the length and / or width direction can be trapezoidal, so that two opposite side surfaces of the outer cylinder 210 are inclined in opposite directions, or the two groups of side walls of the outer cylinder 210 are inclined in opposite directions.

[0051] The aeration tube 310 is arranged to be parallel to the side of the bottom surface of the outer cylinder 210 and is located directly below the side of the bottom surface of the outer cylinder 210. On the one hand, the gas aerated by the aeration tube 310 will not interfere with the sensor probe 230, ensuring the accuracy of the data monitoring of the sensor probe 230. On the other hand, the bubbles can rise along the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 and wash the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 during the rising process, preventing the bubbles from adhering to and growing on the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210, ensuring that the light generated by the light source assembly 200 can be emitted through the outer cylinder 210. The top of the aeration tube 310 is provided with a plurality of aeration holes arranged at intervals along its own extension direction. The gas in the aeration tube 310 is aerated outward through the aeration holes, so that the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 is uniformly disturbed by turbulence.

[0052] Furthermore, the outer cylinder 210 is configured to be wide at the top and narrow at the bottom, and the width of the cross section at the top of the outer cylinder 210 is greater than the width of the cross section at the bottom of the outer cylinder 210. Similarly, the length of the cross section at the top of the outer cylinder 210 can be greater than the length of the cross section at the bottom of the outer cylinder 210, so that all the side walls of the outer cylinder 210 in the circumferential direction are inclined. For example, the side walls of the outer cylinder 210 in the length direction are inclined in opposite directions, then the width of the outer cylinder 210 gradually increases from bottom to top, and the minimum width of the outer cylinder 210 is defined as H. 1 , the maximum width of the outer cylinder 210 is H 2 , where 1.1≤H 2 / H 1 ≤1.5, H 2 / H 1 The angle is not limited to 1.1, 1.15, 1.2, 1.3, 1.35, 1.4, 1.5, etc., so that the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 has a suitable inclination angle. On the one hand, it can prevent the bubbles from being subjected to excessive rising resistance due to excessive inclination of the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210, thereby affecting the mass transfer efficiency. On the other hand, it can ensure that the bubbles can rise along the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 and flush the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210 to prevent microalgae from attaching and growing on the outer wall of the outer cylinder 210.

[0053] In addition, the width of the reactor is defined as H 3 , set 0<H 2 / H 3≤1 / 3, H 2 / H 3 The setting is not limited to 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, etc., so that the outer cylinder 210 has a suitable volume. On the one hand, it ensures that the outer cylinder 210 has a sufficient surface area to provide sufficient light for the growth of microalgae. On the other hand, it avoids the light source assembly 200 occupying too much space in the accommodating cavity 110, thereby compressing the growth space of the microalgae and affecting the yield of the microalgae.

[0054] It is understandable that for both columnar reactors and plate reactors, the outer cylinder 210 can be arranged at the center of the housing 100 so that the microalgae can receive uniform and sufficient light at any position of the containing cavity 110, thereby improving the effectiveness of the light source assembly 200.

[0055] In this application, reference is made to Figure 1 and Figure 5 The photobioreactor also includes a baffle assembly 400, which includes a plurality of baffles 410 arranged at intervals along the height direction of the housing 100. The baffles 410 are arranged in the accommodating chamber 110 and are surrounded by the outside of the outer tube 210. There is a gap between the side of the baffle 410 facing away from the housing 100 and the outer wall of the outer tube 210. The space defined by two adjacent baffles 410 forms an algae liquid flow space. During the rising process of bubbles, the algae liquid can be driven to flow from the gap between the baffle 410 and the outer tube 210, and the algae liquid can flow in a circular manner between the two baffles 410, thereby realizing the light-dark cycle of the algae liquid and improving the light energy utilization rate and the mixed mass transfer performance in the reactor.

[0056] Furthermore, the width of all the partitions 410 is set to be the same. The width of the partition 410 refers to the distance between the side of the partition 410 facing the box body 100 and the side facing the outer cylinder 210. The same width of all the partitions 410 can improve the interchangeability between the partitions 410. In another embodiment, Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown, of the two adjacent baffles 410, the width of the baffle 410 located on the upper layer is smaller than the width of the baffle 410 located on the lower layer, so that the gaps between different baffles 410 and the outer tube 210 are consistent, and correspond to the shape of the outer tube 210 tilting outward from bottom to top, ensuring that after the bubbles rise, they can effectively drive the algae liquid to flow in a circular manner between the adjacent baffles 410, realizing the light and dark cycle of the algae liquid; specifically, the width of the upper baffle 410 is L 1 , the width of the lower partition 410 is L 2 , 0.95≤L 1 / L 2 <1,L 1 / L 2It is not limited to being set to 0.95, 0.96, 0.97, 0.98, 0.99, etc., so that the width of the partition 410 is adapted to the inclination angle of the outer tube 210, ensuring that there is a suitable gap between the partition 410 and the outer tube 210, which is convenient for the algae liquid to flow in the gap between the partition 410 and the outer tube 210 when the bubbles rise, and can ensure that the partition 410 has enough width to allow the algae liquid to flow in a circular manner between adjacent partitions 410, thereby realizing the light and dark cycle of the algae liquid.

[0057] In addition, the distance between every two adjacent partitions 410 can be set to be equal. Driven by the bubbles, the algae liquid can evenly enter between any two partitions 410, making the annular flow of the algae liquid between the partitions 410 more uniform, which is beneficial to improving the consistency of the growth level of the same batch of microalgae.

[0058] In one embodiment, each partition 410 is provided with a plurality of through holes 411 penetrating from top to bottom, and the through holes 411 communicate with the spaces between adjacent partitions 410, and the microalgae can enter the spaces between the partitions 410 through the through holes 411, thereby preventing the algae from settling and accumulating on the partitions 410, which would extend the culture time and reduce the yield of microalgae. The plurality of through holes 411 are evenly distributed on the partitions 410, so that the algae liquid between adjacent partitions 410 can enter another space through the through holes 411, and the circulation flow of the algae liquid in the containing chamber 110 is more uniform; it is understandable that the arrangement of the through holes 411 on the partitions 410 is not limited to a circular array, a rectangular array, etc.

[0059] Further, the opening rate of the partition 410 is defined as φ, where φ≤50%, and φ is not limited to being set to 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 20%, 10%, etc. In this way, the partition 410 can not only play the role of blocking the algae liquid, but also make the algae liquid flow in a circular manner between adjacent partitions 410 under the buoyancy of the rising bubbles to achieve the light-dark cycle of the algae liquid, and also make the microalgae directly pass through the partition 410 when settling, so as to avoid the microalgae from settling on the partition 410. In addition, the shape of the through hole 411 can be set to polygonal, circular, elliptical, etc. For example, the through hole 411 is set to be rectangular, and the four sides of the through hole 411 are all 5 mm. Alternatively, the through hole 411 can also be set to be circular, and the diameter of the through hole 411 is set to be 5 mm, so as to prevent the algae liquid from settling on the partition 410 and ensure that the algae liquid is blocked by the partition 410 and flows in a circular manner between the partitions 410.

[0060] Exemplarily, for a column reactor, Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the partition 410 is annular and surrounds the outer circumference of the outer cylinder 210, and there is a gap between the radial inner surface of the partition 410 and the outer surface of the outer cylinder 210. The gap formed between the partition 410 and the outer cylinder 210 is used for the algae and liquid to be turbulently mixed between the partition 410 and the outer cylinder 210 and between adjacent partitions 410 during the rising process of the bubbles. This mixing is beneficial to the gas-liquid mass transfer of the microalgae and the mixing on the light path, ensuring the effective use of light energy by the microalgae. For a flat-plate reactor, such as Figure 5 As shown, the partition 410 is in the shape of a rectangular plate, and the partition assembly 400 includes two groups of partitions 410 respectively arranged on opposite sides of the outer cylinder 210 in the width direction, and the partition 410 is parallel to the long side of the outer cylinder 210. Similarly, there is a gap between the side wall of the partition 410 facing the outer cylinder 210 and the outer cylinder 210. The gap formed between the partition 410 and the outer cylinder 210 is used for the algae and liquid to be turbulently mixed between the partition 410 and the outer cylinder 210 and between adjacent partitions 410 during the rising process of bubbles.

[0061] In the present application, the baffle assembly 400 is detachably installed in the housing chamber 110 to facilitate the disassembly and cleaning of the baffle assembly 400. It should be noted that the large-scale cultivation of microalgae is usually carried out in batches and stages according to the growth cycle of microalgae of 7-15 days. After each batch of cultivation is completed, the algae liquid needs to be harvested in time, and the reactor needs to be cleaned and disinfected. Since the arrangement of the components in the housing chamber 110 is relatively compact, the difficulty of cleaning the inside of the reactor is increased. If the reactor is not thoroughly cleaned and bacteria grow, it will affect the growth of microalgae and the synthesis of by-products, which is not conducive to the continuous cultivation of microalgae. In the present application, the baffle assembly 400 is detachably arranged in the housing chamber 110. When the reactor needs to be cleaned, the baffle assembly 400 can be removed from the housing chamber 110, and then the baffle assembly 400 and the internal space of the housing chamber 110 are cleaned. The cleaning of the reactor is more convenient and thorough, which is convenient for the long-term recycling of the reactor and the continuous cultivation of microalgae.

[0062] As a way to realize the detachable installation of the partition assembly 400 in the accommodating chamber 110, the partition assembly 400 further includes a connecting rod 420, a plurality of connecting rods 420 are arranged at intervals around the circumference of the outer cylinder 210, each connecting rod 420 is connected to a plurality of partitions 410 from top to bottom, and the upper end of the connecting rod 420 is hung on the upper end of the box body 100, so that the partition assembly 400 can be detachably installed in the accommodating chamber 110. Exemplarily, a hook is provided at the upper end of the connecting rod 420, and the hook is hung on the upper end of the box body 100, so that the partition assembly 400 can be loaded into the accommodating chamber 110; when the partition assembly 400 needs to be removed, the connecting rod 420 is pulled upward to remove the partition assembly 400 from the accommodating chamber 110, so that the disassembly and assembly of the partition assembly 400 is relatively convenient.

[0063] As another implementation method for achieving the detachable installation of the partition assembly 400 in the accommodating chamber 110, the upper end of the connecting rod 420 is magnetically connected to the box body 100. For example, a magnet is provided at the upper end of the box body 100, and the magnet can be set as a magnet sheet. The upper end of the connecting rod 420 is provided with a magnet with opposite magnetic properties or the upper end of the connecting rod 420 is set to a magnetic material, such as iron, so that the upper end of the connecting rod 420 is adsorbed to the upper end of the box body 100 due to the magnetic force, so that the partition assembly 400 is installed in the accommodating chamber 110, and the lower end of the connecting rod 420 abuts against the bottom wall of the accommodating chamber 110, so that the partition assembly 400 is supported, so that the partition assembly 400 maintains structural stability during the aeration process; when the partition assembly 400 needs to be removed, the connecting rod 420 can be dragged upward to release the magnetic attraction between the connecting rod 420 and the box body 100, so that the partition assembly 400 is taken out of the accommodating chamber 110, and the disassembly and assembly of the partition assembly 400 is relatively convenient.

[0064] Furthermore, the connection method of the connecting rod 420 and the partition 410 is not limited to bonding, clamping, integral molding, etc. For example, the partition 410 is provided with an opening, and the connecting rod 420 passes through the plurality of partitions 410 from top to bottom, and is fixed to the partition 410 by adhesive; or, the connecting rod 420 and the partition 410 are integrally formed by injection molding; or, the side of the connecting rod 420 and the edge of the partition 410 facing the box 100 are provided with mutually matching buckles, so that the connecting rod 420 and the partition 410 can be clamped. The connecting rod 420 can be set to a metal material to facilitate magnetic connection with the box 100; in addition, after the nutrient solution is injected into the accommodating chamber 110, part of the connecting rod 420 is exposed above the nutrient solution, and part of the connecting rod 420 is immersed in the nutrient solution. The part not immersed in the nutrient solution can be set to an iron material, and the outer layer of the part immersed in the nutrient solution is plated with an anti-corrosion layer, and the material of the anti-corrosion layer is not limited to zinc, steel, etc.

[0065] It should be noted that a magnet sheet may be provided on the inner wall of the box 100 so that the upper end of the connecting rod 420 is magnetically connected to the inner wall of the box 100. After the partition assembly 400 is loaded into the accommodating chamber 110, the side of the connecting rod 420 facing the inner wall of the box 100 is magnetically attracted to the magnet sheet, so that there is a gap between the side of the partition 410 facing the box 100 and the inner wall of the box 100, and the gap can be used for the algae liquid between adjacent partitions 410 to pass through, thereby preventing the algae liquid from settling at the connection between the partition 410 and the box 100. Specifically, the width of the magnet sheet is consistent with the width of the connecting rod 420, and the thickness of the magnet sheet can be set to 2-5 mm. On the one hand, the algae liquid can pass through the gap between the partition 410 and the box 100, and on the other hand, it is prevented that the magnet sheet is too thick, resulting in the width of the partition 410 being too small, affecting the annular flow of the algae liquid between adjacent partitions 410.

[0066] In addition, refer to Figure 1and Figure 5 The connecting rod 420 includes a vertical portion 421 and a horizontal portion 422. The vertical portion 421 extends in the vertical direction, and the horizontal portion 422 extends in the horizontal direction. The horizontal portion 422 is connected to the lower end of the vertical portion 421, so that the connecting rod 420 is "L"-shaped as a whole. The upper end of the vertical portion 421 is magnetically connected to the upper end of the box body 100. After the partition assembly 400 is loaded into the accommodating cavity 110, the horizontal portion 422 abuts against the bottom wall of the accommodating cavity 110. The horizontal portion 422 and the bottom wall of the accommodating cavity 110 have a large contact area, so that the partition assembly 400 can be stably supported by the bottom of the accommodating cavity 110.

[0067] It should be noted that the number of connecting rods 420 is not limited. Figure 1 As shown, for a columnar reactor, the baffle assembly 400 includes three connecting rods 420, which are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the baffle 410, and each connecting rod 420 is connected to all the baffles 410. Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, for the flat-plate reactor, two groups of partition assemblies 400 are provided and are respectively arranged on opposite sides of the outer cylinder 210. Each group of partition assemblies 400 includes three connecting rods 420. The three connecting rods 420 are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the partition 410, and each connecting rod 420 is connected to all the partitions 410 in the group.

[0068] In one embodiment, the light source assembly 200 can be detachably installed in the box 100 to facilitate the replacement, cleaning and maintenance of the light source assembly 200. Specifically, the light source assembly 200 also includes a support rod 240, which extends radially along the outer tube 210, one end of the support rod 240 is connected to the outside of the outer tube 210, and the other end of the support rod 240 is provided with a clamping portion 241, the clamping portion 241 has an opening 242 arranged downward, so that the support rod 240 is "F" shaped as a whole, and the top of the outer tube 210 is provided with a recessed notch 211, the clamping portion 241 is inserted into the notch 211 through the opening 242, so that the light source assembly 200 is hung in the accommodating cavity 110 through the support rod 240, so that the light source assembly 200 and the box 100 can be detachably connected; when the light source assembly 200 needs to be removed, the light source assembly 200 can be taken out of the accommodating cavity 110 by pulling the light source assembly 200 upward, and the operation is relatively convenient.

[0069] In addition, the light source assembly 200 further includes a first cover plate 250 and an output rod 260. The first cover plate 250 is detachably connected to the top of the outer cylinder 210 and closes the inner cavity of the outer cylinder 210, so that the light source 220 is protected inside the outer cylinder 210 to prevent the light source 220 from being affected by the algae liquid and other external environments. The output rod 260 is connected to the first cover plate 250. A lead channel is provided inside the output rod 260, and the lead channel is communicated with the inner cavity of the outer cylinder 210. The lead channel is used to accommodate wires connected to the light source assembly 200, such as power lines and data lines connected to the light source 220 and the sensor probe 230. One end of the wire is connected to the light source 220 or the sensor probe 230, and the other end can be led out through the upper end of the output rod 260 to connect to an external power source or a data acquisition and control device. In addition, when the light source assembly 200 needs to be disassembled, the output rod 260 can also be used as a handle for the operator to hold, making the disassembly and assembly of the light source assembly 200 more convenient.

[0070] The detachable connection between the first cover plate 250 and the outer tube 210 is not limited to snap-on connection, plug-in connection, etc., so as to facilitate the replacement and maintenance of the internal light source 220 .

[0071] The reactor further includes a second cover plate 500, which is detachably connected to the top of the box body 100 and closes the accommodating chamber 110, providing a pure growth environment for the microalgae. In one embodiment, a movable buckle 510 is further provided on the surface of the second cover plate 500, and the buckle 510 can be configured as a buckle, and the outer wall of the box body 100 is provided with a groove or a protrusion that cooperates with the buckle 510, so that the second cover plate 500 is fixed to the top of the box body 100.

[0072] It should be noted that the notches 211 on the box body 100 and the magnet sheets are alternately arranged along the circumference of the box body 100, so that the position where the light source assembly 200 is connected to the box body 100 and the position where the partition assembly 400 is connected to the box body 100 are staggered, which is convenient for the position layout of the light source assembly 200 and the partition assembly 400. The circumferential side of the second cover plate 500 is also provided with a plurality of notches 520, and the spacing between adjacent notches 520 is the spacing between adjacent connecting rods 420 and supporting rods 240. The second cover plate 500 is buckled on the top of the box body 100, and the connecting rods 420 and the supporting rods 240 can be inserted into the notches 520, so that the side wall of the second cover plate 500 is embedded in the box body 100 to ensure a stable connection with the box body 100. It should be noted that since the notch 211 on the box body 100 is recessed downward, after a portion of the clamping portion 241 is inserted into the notch 211, the top of the first cover plate 250 and the top of the support rod 240 can be flush with the top surface of the box body 100, thereby ensuring that the second cover plate 500 can be horizontally buckled on the top of the box body 100 after being installed on the top of the box body 100.

[0073] In addition, a sealing ring 530 is also provided on the side wall of the second cover plate 500. After the second cover plate 500 is installed on the top of the box body 100, the sealing ring 530 is clamped between the second cover plate 500 and the inner wall of the box body 100, so that the connection between the second cover plate 500 and the box body 100 remains sealed, providing a stable and pure growth environment for the microalgae. A transmission hole 540 is also provided at the center of the second cover plate 500, and the transmission hole 540 is used for the output rod 260 to pass through, so as to lead out the power line and the data cable.

[0074] The box body 100 is also provided with a liquid inlet pipe 120 and a liquid outlet pipe 130. The liquid inlet pipe 120 is connected to the side wall of the box body 100 and is located at the upper part of the box body 100, and is used to inject algae liquid into the containing cavity 110 of the box body 100. The liquid outlet pipe 130 is connected to the bottom of the box body 100 and is used to discharge the liquid in the containing cavity 110.

[0075] It is understandable that the materials of the box 100, the partition 410, the outer cylinder 210, and the cover can be set to transparent materials such as organic glass and glass. On the one hand, the box 100, the partition 410, the outer cylinder 210 and the cover have stable chemical properties, providing a pure and suitable environment for the growth of microalgae. On the other hand, it is convenient for light to enter the containing cavity 110 for photosynthesis of microalgae and convenient for observing the growth of microalgae in the reactor. Alternatively, the partition 410 is set to corrosion-resistant metal, plastic and other materials to improve the corrosion resistance of the partition 410 and maintain chemical stability.

[0076] Taking the column reactor as an example, refer to Figures 1 to 4When cultivating microalgae, the first step is to clean the reactor and disinfect it for use. The second step is to place the partition assembly 400 of the assembled connecting rod 420 and the partition 410 into the reactor, and magnetically install the connecting rod 420 and the magnet sheet adhered to the wall of the reactor. The third step is to assemble the light source assembly 200, insert the light source 220 into the outer cylinder 210, and install the sensor probe 230 at the bottom of the outer cylinder 210 to ensure sealing. Then, the power cord and data cable connecting the sensor and the light source 220 are extended out of the reactor through the output rod 260, and the support rod 240 is fixed to the notch 211 of the reactor to complete the installation of the trapezoidal light box. Cover the light box cover with the power cord and data cable output rod 260. The fourth step is to cover the reactor with the second cover plate 500, wherein the power line and data line output tubes pass through the transmission hole 540, and the side wall of the second cover plate 500 is embedded in the box body 100, and then the movable buckle is clamped on the buckle protrusion on the side wall of the reactor to fix the second cover plate 500. The fifth step is to inject algae liquid into the reactor through the liquid inlet pipe 120 to ensure that the algae liquid level is higher than the uppermost partition 410, but lower than the non-galvanized part of the connecting rod 420. The sixth step is to plug in the power cord, and then connect the data cable of the sensor probe 230 to the computer, connect the aeration assembly, turn on the power, perform aeration and internal lighting of the reactor, and cultivate microalgae. For understanding, refer to Figures 5 to 9 , the flat plate reactor can be assembled in the same way.

[0077] For example, the length×width×height of the column reactor is 100×20×50 cm, the diameters of the upper and lower circular sections of the outer cylinder 210 are 6 cm and 4 cm, and the ratio is 1.25. The widths of the partitions 410 are equal and are both 5 cm, the spacing between the partitions 410 is 5 cm, and the distance between the bottom of the outer cylinder 210 and the bottom of the reactor is 6 cm. Given a ventilation flow rate of 0.5 m / s, the turbulent mixing inside the column reactor after aeration is simulated, and the implementation effect is as follows Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, Fig.10 It can be seen that there is strong mixing at the wall of the outer cylinder 210, which can effectively prevent the algae from adhering to the illuminated wall and the sensor probe 230. In addition, there is also obvious turbulent mixing between the two adjacent partitions 410, which will be beneficial to the gas-liquid mass transfer of the algae and the mixing on the illumination path, thereby increasing its effective use of light energy. Fig.11 The flow rate also shows that there is a strong flow rate on the wall and bottom of the outer tube 210, and there is also a certain annular flow between the two partitions 410, which can promote the circulation conversion of the algae liquid in the light and dark areas, thereby promoting the utilization of light energy by the algae.

[0078] For example, the length×width×height of the flat reactor is 100×15×48 cm; the widths of the upper and lower rectangular sections of the outer cylinder 210 are 4 cm and 3 cm, and the ratio is 1.33. The widths of the partitions 410 are equal and are both 4 cm, the spacing between the partitions 410 is 4 cm, and the distance between the bottom of the outer cylinder 210 and the bottom of the reactor is 4 cm. Given a ventilation flow rate of 0.5 m / s, the implementation effect is as follows Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown, it can be seen that Fig.12 The flow velocity is high at the wall of the outer tube 210 and also high at the bottom of the outer tube 210, which can effectively prevent algae from attaching and growing on the illuminated wall of the reactor and the sensor probe 230. In addition, there is also a certain vortex flow between the partitions 410, which can promote the light-dark conversion and light energy utilization of algae on the illuminated path. Fig.13 The turbulent kinetic energy diagram also shows that the mixing at the illuminated wall of the reactor is strong, which can effectively prevent the algae from adhering to the illuminated wall. In addition, there is also obvious turbulent mixing between two adjacent partitions 410, which will be beneficial to the gas-liquid mass transfer of the algae and the mixing on the illumination path, thereby increasing its effective use of light energy.

[0079] The embodiments of the present invention are described in detail above in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Various changes can be made within the knowledge of ordinary technicians in the relevant technical field without departing from the purpose of the present invention. In addition, the embodiments of the present invention and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other without conflict.

Claims

1. A photobioreactor, characterized in that include: A box body, with a containing cavity inside; A light source assembly is detachably disposed in the accommodating cavity, the light source assembly comprises an outer tube and a light source, the light source is disposed inside the outer tube, the outer tube is transparent, and the outer wall of the outer tube gradually inclines toward the box body from bottom to top; The aeration module includes an aeration pipe, which is used for upward aeration. The aeration pipe is arranged in the accommodating cavity and is located below the light source assembly. The projection formed by the aeration pipe on the cross section does not exceed the projection formed by the light source assembly on the cross section, and the cross section is perpendicular to the height direction of the box.

2. The photobioreactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cross-sections of the outer cylinder and the box body are both circular, the cross-section is perpendicular to the height direction of the box body, the aeration tube is set to be annular, the aeration tube is located directly below the light source assembly, the radius of the aeration tube is R1, the radius of the outer cylinder is R2, wherein 1.05≤R2 / R1≤1.1; Alternatively, the cross-sections of the outer cylinder and the box body are trapezoidal, the cross-sections are parallel to the height direction of the box body, and the aeration pipe is parallel to the side of the bottom surface of the outer cylinder and is located directly below the side of the bottom surface of the outer cylinder.

3. The photobioreactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The light source assembly further includes a sensor probe, which is used to monitor environmental parameters in the accommodating cavity, and the sensor probe is arranged at the bottom of the outer tube.

4. The photobioreactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The photobioreactor also includes a partition assembly, which includes a plurality of partitions spaced apart along the height direction of the box body, the partition is located in the accommodating cavity, the partition is arranged outside the outer tube, and a gap is formed between the side of the partition facing away from the box body and the outer wall of the outer tube.

5. The photobioreactor according to claim 4, characterized in that: The partition assembly is detachably arranged in the accommodating cavity.

6. The photobioreactor according to claim 5, characterized in that: The partition assembly also includes a plurality of connecting rods, which are arranged at intervals around the circumference of the outer cylinder, and each of the connecting rods is connected to a plurality of the partitions in sequence. The lower end of the connecting rod abuts against the bottom wall of the accommodating cavity, and the upper end of the connecting rod is magnetically connected to the box.

7. The photobioreactor according to claim 4, characterized in that: Each of the partitions is provided with a plurality of through holes penetrating from top to bottom, and the opening rate of the partition is φ, wherein φ≤50%.

8. The photobioreactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The light source assembly also includes a support rod, one end of which is connected to the outer wall of the outer tube, and the other end of the support rod is provided with a clamping portion, the clamping portion has an opening arranged downward, and the top end of the outer tube is provided with a recessed notch, and the clamping portion is clamped into the notch through the opening.

9. The photobioreactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The light source assembly also includes a first cover plate and an output rod. The first cover plate is detachably connected to the top of the outer tube and closes the inner cavity of the outer tube. The output rod is connected to the first cover plate. A lead wire channel is provided inside the output rod. The lead wire channel is connected to the inner cavity of the outer tube and is used to accommodate the wires connected to the light source assembly.

10. The photobioreactor according to claim 1, characterized in that: The photobioreactor further comprises a second cover plate, which is detachably connected to the top of the box body and closes the accommodating cavity.

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