Modular Expandable Photo-Bioreactor

Abstract

The present invention relates to a modularly constructed photobioreactor for the cultivation of photosynthetic microorganisms, in particular an artificially illuminated photobioreactor, and a method for the cultivation of photosynthetic microorganisms, which is suitable for use in an industrial production environment with a high level of automation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a modularly constructed photo-bioreactor suitable for culturing photosynthetic microorganisms in an industrial production environment with a high level of automation, in particular, an artificially illuminated, modularly constructed and expandable photo-bioreactor. The photo-bioreactor according to the present invention enables the highest biomass productivity and product productivity over a long period of time under optimal biomass quality and low investment costs, maintenance costs, and operating costs.

Background Art

[0002] A major drawback of industrial flat panel systems is still that the width and height of the reactor chamber of the flat panel reactor cannot be physically configured arbitrarily. This is because otherwise, the manufacturing costs will increase significantly. Therefore, in order to expand the reactor volume to an industrial scale, it is necessary to arrange a large number of flat panels in one equipment assembly from an economic perspective. In that case, for example, in order to enable expansion from pre-culture to the desired production volume, or to optimally adjust multiple processes in sequence, a large number of reactors can be connected in series to form one module assembly. Each chamber of such a reactor is often connected to the total volume through external piping to each other. However, due to structural conditions, stirring for equalizing the concentration gradients formed during culturing is often not performed optimally. Therefore, in order to provide the most optimal growth conditions for the organisms, it is necessary to monitor each volume independently of each other. The reasons for the formation of concentration gradients and the non-uniform distribution of the cultured microorganisms inside the reactor are, along with insufficient stirring, also dynamic changes and natural variations of the biological system. In such a biological system, even fine fluctuations in light or nutrient supply can already lead to differences in growth and / or product formation.

[0003] In the expansion of a flat panel system, it is particularly dangerous that if a manufacturing volume that is too large is selected, in the event of contamination, it may lead to the loss of the entire batch. Rigorous monitoring means high costs for the facility operator and the need for a large investment in the online and offline measurement technologies to be introduced.

[0004] A further problem is that a very large area is required for a photo-bioreactor that uses natural sunlight to cultivate photosynthetic microorganisms. In order to reduce the required installation area, it may be necessary to use the light energy from artificial light sources. In such a system, the short setup time during the maintenance cycle is also one of the decisive factors for the good scalability of a large facility system. Also, when designing a reactor system compliant with GMP regulations, for example, to obtain system certification or to comply with the regulations of an industrial production environment, issues such as dead leg prevention, residue discharge, and sterilization possibility must be constructively solved.

[0005] In the cultivation of photosynthetic microorganisms, it is particularly important for the ability of the photobioreactor system that sufficient light of appropriate quality is supplied to the microorganisms. Light enters the cultivation volume through the reactor surface. Depending on the biomass concentration and the intensity at the surface, a characteristic absorption profile of the incident photons is formed over the layer depth of the volume. When the intensity is very high, the profile is divided into three zones. Near the surface, the cells are exposed to a photon flux density that is too high, resulting in photoinhibition. In the intermediate zone, the intensity matches the appropriate conditions, and the microorganisms exhibit the highest photosynthetic rate. On the other hand, in the deep part of the reactor, the cells increasingly cast shadows on each other, resulting in light limitation. Changing the light, biomass concentration, or the shape of the reactor volume causes these zones to change accordingly. When the cell concentration is very high, the light is completely absorbed already in the first few millimeters, and when the cell concentration is low, it can also penetrate through the cultivation volume. This relationship characterizes the achievable photosynthetic rate and, as a result, the overall capacity of the reactor. This is because the reactor is not a static system, as the cells move between the above-mentioned zones. Due to the introduced agitation strategy, the cells statistically move throughout the reactor volume in specific trajectories, are supplied with a light power integral near the surface at a specific frequency, and as a result then reach again the shadowed regions within the reactor. The faster this process progresses, the more cells are statistically supplied with light. There, one cell experiences a light history based on the frequency characteristic of the system, and kinetic light integration occurs over all cells. Hydrodynamic changes statistically lead to characteristic light / dark cycles within the volume, and these cycles serve as a criterion for the capacity of the reactor. From this, two limiting cases arise, which can lead to good growth in one structure of the reactor system as well as in another, depending on the organism introduced. On the one hand, a reactor with a larger layer thickness and a strong shape structure can be agitated by pumping or gas injection, guiding the cells through vortices throughout the reactor on specific light / dark trajectories. In this way, a high biomass concentration can be achieved.For other reactors with extreme surface / volume (O / V) ratios, the layer thickness can be very thin. Such systems aim to carry out processes under weak light conditions by minimizing the shadow of cells in light supply as much as possible. Here, it is necessary to correspondingly attenuate the light energy across the entire surface. Summary of the Invention Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] As a result, the requirements for a photobioreactor that can be used to efficiently culture photosynthetic microorganisms on an industrial scale are increasing. Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The present invention is based on the technical problem of overcoming the drawbacks of the photobioreactor described in the background art and meeting the high requirements for a photobioreactor for efficient cultivation of photosynthetic microorganisms on an industrial scale. The present invention solves the underlying technical problem by the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0008] In particular, the present invention relates to a modularly constructed photobioreactor comprising a first end piece, a second end piece, and at least one reactor compartment disposed between the first end piece and the second end piece, wherein the photobioreactor comprises at least two culture chambers, the at least two culture chambers being formed by joining due to the shape engagement of the two end pieces and the at least one reactor compartment, each of the culture chambers of the photobioreactor being in fluid communication with each other, and both end pieces and the at least one reactor compartment each comprising at least one light source.

[0009] The present invention particularly relates to a modularly constructed photobioreactor comprising a first end piece, a second end piece, and at least one reactor compartment arranged between the first end piece and the second end piece, wherein the photobioreactor comprises at least two culture chambers, the at least two culture chambers being constituted by joining due to the shape engagement of the two end pieces and the at least one reactor compartment, each of the culture chambers of the photobioreactor being in fluid communication with each other, and both end pieces and the at least one reactor compartment each comprising at least one light source. In the modularly constructed photobioreactor, the at least one reactor compartment is characterized by having two bowl-shaped elements (shell elements) connected to each other in a back-to-back arrangement.

[0010] The modular expandable structure of the photobioreactor according to the present invention enables increasing or decreasing the number of reactor compartments arranged between the end pieces and the number of associated culture chambers of the photobioreactor according to requirements. The fact that at least one light source, particularly at least one artificial light source, is installed in contact with both end pieces and the at least one reactor compartment enables uniformly supplying light energy to the photosynthetic microorganisms present in the culture chambers without depending on sunlight, and enables modular expansion of the photobioreactor without losing the capacity of the reactor due to shading of the cultured cells and the accompanying decrease in photosynthetic ability when increasing the number of reactor compartments arranged in contact with each other and the compact and space-saving structure of the reactor. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011]

Fig. 1A

Fig. 1B

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Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0012] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the first culture chamber is formed by joining at least one reactor compartment and the first end piece through shape engagement, and the second culture chamber is formed by joining at least one reactor compartment and the second end piece through shape engagement.

[0013] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the modularly constructed photobioreactor comprises a first end piece, a second end piece, and at least two reactor compartments arranged between the first end piece and the second end piece. The photobioreactor includes at least three culture chambers, and the at least three culture chambers are formed by joining due to the shape engagement of the two end pieces and at least two reactor compartments. Each culture chamber of the photobioreactor is in fluid communication with each other, and both end pieces and at least two reactor compartments each include at least one light source.

[0014] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the first culture chamber is formed by joining due to the shape engagement of the first end piece and the first reactor compartment, the second culture chamber is formed by joining due to the shape engagement of the first reactor compartment and the second reactor compartment, and the third culture chamber is formed by joining due to the shape engagement of the second reactor compartment and the second end piece.

[0015] Advantageously, the photobioreactor according to the present invention has at least two, advantageously at least three, advantageously at least four, advantageously at least five, advantageously at least six, advantageously at least seven, advantageously at least eight, advantageously at least nine, advantageously at least ten, advantageously at least fifteen, advantageously at least twenty, advantageously at least twenty-five reactor compartments arranged between the first end piece and the second end piece.

[0016] In the present invention, the photo-bioreactor may also be assumed to have reactor compartments arranged between a first end piece and a second end piece, with a maximum of fifty, preferably a maximum of forty-five, preferably a maximum of forty, preferably a maximum of thirty-five, preferably a maximum of thirty, preferably a maximum of twenty-five, preferably a maximum of twenty, preferably a maximum of fifteen, preferably a maximum of ten, preferably a maximum of nine, preferably a maximum of eight, preferably a maximum of seven, preferably a maximum of six, preferably a maximum of five, preferably a maximum of four, preferably a maximum of three, preferably a maximum of two.

[0017] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the photo-bioreactor has at least three, preferably at least four, preferably at least five, preferably at least six, preferably at least seven, preferably at least eight, preferably at least nine, preferably at least ten, preferably at least fifteen, preferably at least twenty, preferably at least twenty-five culture chambers.

[0018] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the photo-bioreactor has a maximum of fifty, preferably a maximum of forty-five, preferably a maximum of forty, preferably a maximum of thirty-five, preferably a maximum of thirty, preferably a maximum of twenty-five, preferably a maximum of twenty, preferably a maximum of fifteen, preferably a maximum of ten, preferably a maximum of nine, preferably a maximum of eight, preferably a maximum of seven, preferably a maximum of six, preferably a maximum of five, preferably a maximum of four, preferably a maximum of three culture chambers.

[0019] Advantageously, the photo-bioreactor according to the present invention has a first end piece, a second end piece, n reactor compartments arranged between the first end piece and the second end piece, and n + 1 culture chambers, where n is such that n ≥ 1, preferably n ≥ 2, preferably n ≥ 3, preferably n ≥ 4, preferably n ≥ 5, preferably n ≥ 6, preferably n ≥ 7, preferably n ≥ 8, preferably n ≥ 9, preferably n ≥ 10, preferably n ≥ 15, preferably n ≥ 20, preferably n ≥ 25.

[0020] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the photo-bioreactor according to the present invention has a first end piece, a second end piece, n reactor compartments arranged between the first end piece and the second end piece, and n + 1 culture chambers, where n satisfies n ≦ 50, preferably n ≦ 45, preferably n ≦ 40, preferably n ≦ 35, preferably n ≦ 30, preferably n ≦ 25, preferably n ≦ 20, preferably n ≦ 15, preferably n ≦ 14, preferably n ≦ 13, preferably n ≦ 12, preferably n ≦ 11, preferably n ≦ 10, preferably n ≦ 9, preferably n ≦ 8, preferably n ≦ 7, preferably n ≦ 6, preferably n ≦ 5.

[0021] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the modularly constructed photo-bioreactor includes a first end piece, a second end piece, and n reactor compartments arranged between the first end piece and the second end piece. The photo-bioreactor includes n + 1 culture chambers, and the n + 1 culture chambers are formed by joining due to the shape engagement of the two end pieces and the n reactor compartments. Each culture chamber of the photo-bioreactor is in fluid communication with each other. Both end pieces and the n reactor compartments each include at least one light source, where n satisfies n ≧ 1, preferably n ≧ 2, preferably n ≧ 3, preferably n ≧ 4, preferably n ≧ 5, preferably n ≧ 6, preferably n ≧ 7, preferably n ≧ 8, preferably n ≧ 9, preferably n ≧ 10, preferably n ≧ 15, preferably n ≧ 20, preferably n ≧ 25.

[0022] Furthermore, the present invention relates in particular to a photo-bioreactor constructed in a modular manner, the photo-bioreactor comprising a first end piece, a second end piece, and n reactor compartments arranged between the first end piece and the second end piece, the photo-bioreactor comprising at least n + 1 culture chambers, the n + 1 culture chambers being formed by joining due to the shape engagement of the two end pieces and the n reactor compartments, each culture chamber of the photo-bioreactor being in fluid communication with each other, both end pieces and the n reactor compartments each comprising at least one light source, where n is such that n ≧ 1, preferably n ≧ 2, preferably n ≧ 3, preferably n ≧ 4, preferably n ≧ 5, preferably n ≧ 6, preferably n ≧ 7, preferably n ≧ 8, preferably n ≧ 9, preferably n ≧ 10, preferably n ≧ 15, preferably n ≧ 20, preferably n ≧ 25.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, each culture chamber of the photo-bioreactor has at least one upflow region, preferably at least two upflow regions, preferably at least three upflow regions, preferably at least four upflow regions.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, each culture chamber has at least one downflow region, preferably at least two downflow regions, preferably at least three downflow regions, preferably at least four downflow regions.

[0025] Preferably, each culture chamber has at least two upflow regions and at least two downflow regions.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, at least one upflow region of the culture chamber is gas-injected.

[0027] In an advantageous embodiment, the gas injection into at least one upflow region of the culture chamber is carried out through a slotted or perforated membrane, in particular a slotted or perforated silicon membrane. Also in the context of the present invention, the gas injection into at least one upflow region of the culture chamber may be carried out through a porous plastic or ceramic element. In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the gas injection into the upflow region of the culture chamber is carried out through a common gas injection line running through the foot space of each reactor compartment.

[0028] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, at least one upflow region of the culture chamber is gas-injected with a mixed gas, in particular a mixture of carbon dioxide and air.

[0029] Advantageously, the proportion of carbon dioxide in the mixed gas, in particular the mixture of carbon dioxide and air, is at least 0.5%, advantageously at least 1%, advantageously at least 2%, advantageously at least 3%, advantageously at least 4%, advantageously at least 5%, advantageously at least 6%, advantageously at least 7%, advantageously at least 8%, advantageously at least 9%.

[0030] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the proportion of carbon dioxide in the mixed gas, in particular the mixture of carbon dioxide and air, is at most 10%, advantageously at most 9%, advantageously at most 8%, advantageously at most 7%, advantageously at most 6%, advantageously at most 5%, advantageously at most 4%, advantageously at most 5%, advantageously at most 4%, advantageously at most 3%, advantageously at most 2%, advantageously at most 1%.

[0031] Particularly advantageously, the proportion of carbon dioxide in the mixed gas, in particular the mixture of carbon dioxide and air, is 0.5 - 10%, advantageously 1 - 9%, advantageously 2 - 8%, advantageously 3 - 7%, advantageously 4 - 6%.

[0032] In an advantageous embodiment, the gas injection rate is at least 0.01 vvm (gas volume / culture medium volume / minute), preferably at least 0.025 vvm, preferably at least 0.05 vvm, preferably at least 0.1 vvm, preferably at least 0.2 vvm, preferably at least 0.3 vvm, preferably at least 0.4 vvm, preferably at least 0.5 vvm, preferably at least 0.6 vvm, preferably at least 0.7 vvm, preferably at least 0.8 vvm, preferably at least 0.9 vvm, preferably at least 1 vvm.

[0033] Preferably, the gas injection rate is at most 1 vvm (gas volume / culture medium volume / minute), preferably at most 0.9 vvm, preferably at most 0.8 vvm, preferably at most 0.7 vvm, preferably at most 0.6 vvm, preferably at most 0.5 vvm, preferably at most 0.4 vvm, preferably at most 0.3 vvm, preferably at most 0.2 vvm, preferably at most 0.1 vvm, preferably at most 0.05 vvm.

[0034] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the gas injection rate is 0.01 to 1 vvm (gas volume / culture medium volume / minute), preferably 0.025 to 0.8 vvm, preferably 0.05 to 0.6 vvm, preferably 0.1 to 0.5 vvm, preferably 0.15 to 0.3 vvm.

[0035] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the mixed gas, in particular a mixture of carbon dioxide and air, is returned from the head region of the photo-bioreactor for fresh gas injection into at least one upflow region of the culture chamber. Particularly preferably, the returned mixed gas, in particular a mixture of carbon dioxide and air, is refilled with carbon dioxide again before fresh gas injection.

[0036] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, at least one downflow region of the culture chamber flows into at least one upflow region of at least one adjacent culture chamber. Particularly preferably, the downflow region of the culture chamber flows into at least one upflow region of at least one adjacent culture chamber through at least one flow path.

[0037] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, at least one flow path connecting the downflow region of the culture chamber to at least one upflow region of at least one adjacent culture chamber extends below at least one light source of the reactor compartment.

[0038] Through the connection between at least one downflow region of the culture chamber and at least one upflow region of at least one adjacent culture chamber, an exchange of the culture volume between each culture chamber of the photobioreactor is carried out.

[0039] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the modularly constructed photobioreactor does not have a pump, particularly a pump for stirring the culture volume. Advantageously, the stirring of the culture volume is carried out without active pumping.

[0040] Particularly advantageously, the stirring of the culture volume is carried out pneumatically, particularly through the movement of the culture volume through the upflow region and the downflow region of the photobioreactor, particularly by an airlift pump transport method (airlift method). The elimination of the need for active pumping enables the photobioreactor according to the present invention to preferably also culture shear-sensitive organisms, particularly shear-sensitive photosynthetic microorganisms. Furthermore, the pneumatic stirring suppresses the maintenance cost, the maintenance cost, and the repair cost of the photobioreactor, thereby improving the economy of the photobioreactor.

[0041] Fluid communication between the respective culture chambers preferably enables stirring of the culture volume throughout all the culture chambers of the photobioreactor. Particularly advantageously, the stirring of the culture volume in the culture chambers of the photobioreactor that are in fluid communication with each other is driven by a pneumatic, particularly an airlift pump conveyance method (airlift method). That is, by introducing gas into the lower region of at least one upflow region of the culture chamber, the gas then rises in the form of gas bubbles, leading to a hydrostatic pressure difference, which in turn causes a flow towards the upper part of the culture volume. Here, since at least one downflow region of the culture chamber is in fluid communication with at least one upflow region of at least one adjacent culture chamber, it leads to a flow of the culture volume from at least one downflow region of the culture chamber to the upflow region of at least one adjacent culture chamber, thereby leading to the stirring of the culture volume between the respective culture chambers of the photobioreactor. In this way, preferably, it is ensured that light and nutrients are evenly supplied to the cultured photosynthetic microorganisms, and the formation of a partial concentration gradient in a specific part of the photobioreactor is prevented.

[0042] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, at least one light source is LED lighting, preferably high-performance LED lights.

[0043] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, at least one light source comprises warm white LEDs and / or cool white LEDs, particularly warm white LEDs and cool white LEDs in the same proportion. Preferably, the warm white LEDs have a color temperature of 1500 to 4500 K, preferably 1750 to 3500 K, preferably 2000 to 3000 K. Preferably, the cool white LEDs have a color temperature of 4750 to 8000 K, preferably 5000 to 7000 K, preferably 5250 to 6000 K.

[0044] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, at least one light source includes a warm white LED and / or a cool white LED, and additionally a blue LED and / or a red LED. Thereby, in the present invention, for example, it can be assumed that at least one light source includes a warm white LED, a cool white LED, and a red LED. Alternatively, in the present invention, it can be assumed that at least one light source includes a warm white LED, a cool white LED, and a blue LED. Particularly advantageously, at least one light source includes a warm white LED, a cool white LED, a red LED, and a blue LED.

[0045] Particularly advantageously, the warm white LED, the cool white LED, the red LED, and / or the blue LED are installed on a common carrier, particularly on a common substrate.

[0046] In an advantageous embodiment, at least one light source is a warm white LED, a cool white LED, a blue LED, and a red LED arranged on a common carrier, particularly on a common substrate, and the LEDs are advantageously operated separately and in common.

[0047] In an advantageous embodiment, at least one light source includes at least 50%, advantageously at least 55%, advantageously at least 60%, advantageously at least 65%, advantageously at least 70%, advantageously at least 75% white LEDs, particularly warm white LEDs and cool white LEDs. In the present invention, the ratio of the warm white LED to the cool white LED of at least one light source can be assumed to be 50:50, advantageously 55:45, advantageously 60:40, advantageously 65:35, advantageously 70:30, advantageously 75:25. Particularly advantageously, at least one light source includes white LEDs, of which 50 to 80%, advantageously 55 to 75%, advantageously 60 to 70% are warm white LEDs, and 20 to 50%, advantageously 25 to 45%, advantageously 30 to 40% are cool white LEDs.

[0048] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one light source comprises 0 to 25% blue LEDs and 75 to 100% red LEDs. In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the ratio of red LEDs to blue LEDs in at least one light source is at least 1:3, preferably at least 1:4, preferably at least 1:5, preferably at least 1:6.

[0049] Particularly preferably, the luminous efficacy of at least one light source is at least 150 lm / W (lumens per watt), preferably at least 175 lm / W, preferably at least 200 lm / W, preferably at least 110 lm / W, preferably at least 220 lm / W, preferably at least 230 lm / W, preferably at least 240 lm / W, preferably at least 250 lm / W.

[0050] In an advantageous embodiment, the irradiance of at least one light source is at least 50 W / m 2 (watts per square meter), preferably at least 75 W / m 2 , preferably at least 100 W / m 2 , preferably at least 125 W / m 2 , preferably at least 150 W / m 2 , preferably at least 175 W / m 2 , preferably at least 200 W / m 2 , preferably at least 225 W / m 2 , preferably at least 250 W / m 2 , preferably at least 275 W / m 2 , preferably at least 300 W / m 2 , preferably at least 325 W / m 2 , preferably at least 350 W / m 2 is.

[0051] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the irradiance of at least one light source is at most 400 W / m 2 (watts per square meter), preferably at most 375 W / m 2 , preferably at most 350 W / m 2 , preferably at most 325 W / m2 , advantageously up to 300 W / m 2 , advantageously up to 275 W / m 2 , advantageously up to 250 W / m 2 , advantageously up to 225 W / m 2 , advantageously up to 200 W / m 2 .

[0052] Particularly advantageously, the irradiance of at least one light source is 50 - 400 W / m 2 , advantageously 100 - 350 W / m 2 , advantageously 150 - 300 W / m 2 , advantageously 175 - 275 W / m 2 , advantageously 200 - 250 W / m 2 .

[0053] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, at least one light source is a component of an illumination plane arranged between two bowl-shaped elements of a reactor compartment.

[0054] Advantageously, the illumination plane arranged between two bowl-shaped elements of a reactor compartment, which includes at least one light source, emits radiation in two opposite directions. Particularly advantageously, the illumination plane arranged between two bowl-shaped elements of a reactor compartment includes at least two light sources, which are arranged back-to-back and emit radiation in opposite directions. In the present invention, it can be assumed that a cooling device is arranged between at least two light sources of the illumination plane.

[0055] In an advantageous embodiment, the illumination plane has an area of at least 0.5 m 2 , advantageously at least 0.6 m 2 , advantageously at least 0.7 m 2 , advantageously at least 0.8 m 2 , advantageously at least 0.9 m 2 , advantageously at least 1 m 2 .

[0056] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, at least one light source, in particular at least one light source of an illumination layer arranged between two bowl-shaped elements of a reactor compartment, has a distance of at most 5 cm, advantageously at most 4.5 cm, advantageously at most 4 cm, advantageously at most 3.5 cm, advantageously at most 3 cm, advantageously at most 2.5 cm, advantageously at most 2 cm, advantageously at most 1.5 cm, advantageously at most 1 cm, advantageously at most 0.5 cm from the surface of the culture chamber of the photo-bioreactor.

[0057] Advantageously, at least one light source, in particular at least one light source of an illumination layer arranged between two bowl-shaped elements of a reactor compartment, has a distance of at least 0.5 cm, advantageously at least 0.75 cm, advantageously at least 1 cm, advantageously at least 1.25 cm, advantageously at least 1.5 cm, advantageously at least 1.75 cm, advantageously at least 2 cm, advantageously at least 2.25 cm, advantageously at least 2.5 cm, advantageously at least 2.75 cm, advantageously at least 3 cm from the surface of the culture chamber of the photo-bioreactor.

[0058] Particularly advantageously, at least one light source, in particular at least one light source of an illumination layer arranged between two bowl-shaped elements of a reactor compartment, has a distance of 0.5 - 5 cm, 0.75 - 4 cm, advantageously 1 - 3.5 cm, advantageously 1.25 - 3 cm, advantageously 1.5 - 2.5 cm from the surface of the culture chamber of the photo-bioreactor.

[0059] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, at least one reactor compartment has two bowl-shaped elements. In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, at least one reactor compartment is composed of two bowl-shaped elements. Advantageously, the two bowl-shaped elements of at least one reactor compartment are connected to each other in a back-to-back arrangement. Particularly advantageously, an illumination layer containing at least one light source of the reactor compartment is arranged between the two bowl-shaped elements.

[0060] In an advantageous embodiment, the reactor compartment of the photobioreactor according to the invention has two bowl-shaped elements, which are connected to each other in a back-to-back arrangement, and there is an illumination layer containing at least one light source of the reactor compartment between the two bowl-shaped elements.

[0061] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the two bowl-shaped elements of at least one reactor compartment are hemispheres.

[0062] Particularly advantageously, both bowl-shaped elements of the reactor compartment, in particular both hemispheres, are configured to be line-symmetric to each other. In this advantageous embodiment of the invention, it can be assumed that the plane of symmetry of the reactor compartment is present in the illumination layer arranged between the two bowl-shaped elements.

[0063] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, both bowl-shaped elements of the reactor compartment, in particular both hemispheres, are configured not to be line-symmetric to each other.

[0064] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first end piece includes one bowl-shaped element, in particular one hemisphere. Particularly advantageously, the first end piece includes one bowl-shaped element, in particular one hemisphere, and at least one light source.

[0065] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the second end piece includes one bowl-shaped element, in particular one hemisphere. Particularly advantageously, the second end piece includes one bowl-shaped element, in particular one hemisphere, and at least one light source.

[0066] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first and second end pieces each include one bowl-shaped element, in particular one hemisphere. Particularly advantageously, the first and second end pieces each include one bowl-shaped element, in particular one hemisphere, and at least one light source.

[0067] Advantageously in the present invention, in the assembled state of the modularly constructed photo-bioreactor, each of the two bowl-shaped elements of the reactor compartment, advantageously each of the two, forms, together with one bowl-shaped element of a further reactor compartment, advantageously one hemisphere, or one bowl-shaped element of one end piece, advantageously one hemisphere, and one culture chamber.

[0068] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the culture chamber constituted by a bowl-shaped element, advantageously a hemisphere, is sealed by a circumferential seal.

[0069] In a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention, both end pieces, and at least one reactor compartment arranged between the two end pieces, advantageously both end pieces, and n reactor compartments arranged between the two end pieces, are arranged adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction. Particularly advantageously, at least two culture chambers, in particular n + 1 culture chambers, are arranged adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction.

[0070] Advantageously, the photo-bioreactor according to the present invention includes, in addition to both end pieces and at least one reactor compartment, in particular, in addition to both end pieces and at least n reactor compartments, two cover plates arranged at the ends. Particularly advantageously, both end pieces and at least one reactor compartment, in particular both end pieces and at least n reactor compartments, are arranged adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction and are pressed together through the end cover plates.

[0071] In an advantageous embodiment, the pressing together of the end piece and the reactor compartment arranged adjacent between the first and second end pieces is effected by means of hydraulic pressure or bolt tightening, advantageously through the cover plate arranged at the end.

[0072] By pressing together an end piece and at least one reactor compartment arranged between the first and second end pieces, a configuration of a closed reactor space separated from the surroundings is achieved. In this case, the force applied to the end piece, preferably the force applied to the end piece by the cover plate, corresponds to the spring restoring forces of at least all the reactor compartments and both end pieces.

[0073] Advantageously, at least one reactor compartment of the photo-bioreactor according to the invention has a height of at least 0.25 m, preferably at least 0.5 m, preferably at least 0.75 m, preferably at least 1 m, preferably at least 1.25 m, preferably at least 1.5 m, preferably at least 1.75 m, preferably at least 2 m.

[0074] In an advantageous embodiment, at least one reactor compartment of the photo-bioreactor according to the invention has a height of at most 5 m, preferably at most 4.5 m, preferably at most 4 m, preferably at most 3.5 m, preferably at most 3 m, preferably at most 2.5 m, preferably at most 2 m, preferably at most 1.5 m.

[0075] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one reactor compartment has a height of 0.25 to 5 m, preferably 0.5 to 4.5 m, preferably 0.75 to 4 m, preferably 1 to 3.5 m, preferably 1.25 to 3 m, preferably 1.5 to 2.5 m.

[0076] Advantageously, the first and second end pieces of the photo-bioreactor according to the invention have a height of at least 0.25 m, preferably at least 0.5 m, preferably at least 0.75 m, preferably at least 1 m, preferably at least 1.25 m, preferably at least 1.5 m, preferably at least 1.75 m, preferably at least 2 m.

[0077] In an advantageous embodiment, the first and second end pieces of the photo-bioreactor according to the invention have a height of at most 5 m, preferably at most 4.5 m, preferably at most 4 m, preferably at most 3.5 m, preferably at most 3 m, preferably at most 2.5 m, preferably at most 2 m, preferably at most 1.5 m.

[0078] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first and second end pieces of the photo-bioreactor according to the invention have a height of 0.25 to 5 m, preferably 0.5 to 4.5 m, preferably 0.75 to 4 m, preferably 1 to 3.5 m, preferably 1.25 to 3 m, preferably 1.5 to 2.5 m.

[0079] At least one reactor compartment of the photo-bioreactor according to the invention has a width of at least 0.25 m, preferably at least 0.5 m, preferably at least 0.75 m, preferably at least 1 m, preferably at least 1.25 m, preferably at least 1.5 m, preferably at least 1.75 m, preferably at least 2 m.

[0080] In an advantageous embodiment, at least one reactor compartment of the photo-bioreactor according to the invention has a width of at most 5 m, preferably at most 4.5 m, preferably at most 4 m, preferably at most 3.5 m, preferably at most 3 m, preferably at most 2.5 m, preferably at most 2 m, preferably at most 1.5 m.

[0081] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one reactor compartment has a width of 0.25 to 5 m, preferably 0.5 to 4.5 m, preferably 0.75 to 4 m, preferably 1 to 3.5 m, preferably 1.25 to 3 m, preferably 1.5 to 2.5 m.

[0082] The first and second end pieces of the photo-bioreactor according to the invention preferably have a width of at least 0.25 m, preferably at least 0.5 m, preferably at least 0.75 m, preferably at least 1 m, preferably at least 1.25 m, preferably at least 1.5 m, preferably at least 1.75 m, preferably at least 2 m.

[0083] In an advantageous embodiment, the first and second end pieces of the photobioreactor according to the invention have a width of at most 5 m, advantageously at most 4.5 m, advantageously at most 4 m, advantageously at most 3.5 m, advantageously at most 3 m, advantageously at most 2.5 m, advantageously at most 2 m, advantageously at most 1.5 m.

[0084] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first and second end pieces of the photobioreactor according to the invention have a width of from 0.25 to 5 m, advantageously from 0.5 to 4.5 m, advantageously from 0.75 to 4 m, advantageously from 1 to 3.5 m, advantageously from 1.25 to 3 m, advantageously from 1.5 to 2.5 m.

[0085] Particularly advantageously, the culture chamber, in particular the culture chamber constituted by both end pieces and the reactor compartment arranged between the first and second end pieces, has a maximum chamber depth, in particular a maximum layer thickness, of at least 0.5 cm, advantageously at least 1 cm, advantageously at least 1.5 cm, advantageously at least 2 cm, advantageously at least 2.5 cm, advantageously at least 3 cm, advantageously at least 3.5 cm, advantageously at least 4 cm, advantageously at least 4.5 cm, advantageously at least 5 cm.

[0086] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the culture chamber, in particular the culture chamber constituted by both end pieces and the reactor compartment arranged between the first and second end pieces, has a maximum chamber depth, in particular a maximum layer thickness, of at most 10 cm, advantageously at most 9 cm, advantageously at most 8 cm, advantageously at most 7 cm, advantageously at most 6 cm, advantageously at most 5 cm, advantageously at most 4.5 cm, advantageously at most 4 cm, advantageously at most 3.5 cm, advantageously at most 3 cm, advantageously at most 2.5 cm, advantageously at most 2 cm, advantageously at most 1.5 cm.

[0087] Particularly advantageously, the culture chamber, in particular both end pieces, and the culture chamber constituted by a reactor compartment arranged between the first and second end pieces has a non-uniform chamber depth, in particular a non-uniform layer thickness. Particularly advantageously, the culture chamber, in particular both end pieces, and the culture chamber constituted by a reactor compartment arranged between the first and second end pieces has a non-uniform chamber depth, in particular a non-uniform layer thickness in the range of 0.5 to 10 cm, advantageously 0.5 to 7.5 cm, advantageously 0.5 to 5 cm, advantageously 1 to 4.5 cm, advantageously 1 to 4 cm, advantageously 1.5 to 3.5 cm, advantageously 1.5 to 3 cm.

[0088] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, each of the culture chamber, in particular both end pieces, and the culture chamber constituted by a reactor compartment arranged between the first and second end pieces has a capacity of at least 5 liters, advantageously at least 10 liters, advantageously at least 20 liters, advantageously at least 30 liters, advantageously at least 40 liters, advantageously at least 50 liters, advantageously at least 75 liters, advantageously at least 100 liters, advantageously at least 150 liters, advantageously at least 200 liters, advantageously at least 250 liters, advantageously at least 500 liters, advantageously at least 750 liters, advantageously at least 1000 liters, advantageously at least 1500 liters, advantageously at least 2000 liters, advantageously at least 2500 liters, advantageously at least 3000 liters, advantageously at least 3500 liters, advantageously at least 4000 liters, advantageously at least 5000 liters.

[0089] In advantageous embodiments, the culture chambers, in particular both end pieces, and the culture chambers each constituted by at least one reactor compartment arranged between the first and second end pieces each have a capacity of at most 20,000 liters, advantageously at most 15,000 liters, advantageously at most 10,000 liters, advantageously at most 7,500 liters, advantageously at most 5,000 liters, advantageously at most 4,000 liters, advantageously at most 3,000 liters, advantageously at most 2,500 liters, advantageously at most 2,000 liters, advantageously at most 1,500 liters, advantageously at most 1,000 liters, advantageously at most 750 liters, advantageously at most 500 liters, advantageously at most 400 liters, advantageously at most 300 liters, advantageously at most 200 liters, advantageously at most 150 liters, advantageously at most 100 liters, advantageously at most 75 liters, advantageously at most 50 liters.

[0090] Particularly advantageously, the culture chambers, in particular both end pieces, and the culture chambers each constituted by at least one reactor compartment arranged between the first and second end pieces each have a capacity of 5 to 20,000 liters, advantageously 5 to 10,000 liters, advantageously 10 to 7,500 liters, advantageously 10 to 5,000 liters, advantageously 20 to 2,500 liters, advantageously 20 to 1,000 liters, advantageously 30 to 500 liters, advantageously 30 to 250 liters.

[0091] In a further advantageous embodiment, the photobioreactor according to the invention has a total capacity of at least 100 liters, advantageously at least 150 liters, advantageously at least 200 liters, advantageously at least 250 liters, advantageously at least 300 liters, advantageously at least 350 liters, advantageously at least 400 liters, advantageously at least 450 liters, advantageously at least 500 liters, advantageously at least 750 liters, advantageously at least 1,000 liters, advantageously at least 2,500 liters, advantageously at least 5,000 liters, advantageously at least 7,500 liters, advantageously at least 10,000 liters.

[0092] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the bowl-shaped element of the reactor compartment, in particular the culture chamber composed of a hemisphere, is divided. Particularly advantageously, at least one upflow region of the bowl-shaped element of the reactor compartment, in particular the culture chamber composed of a hemisphere, is divided.

[0093] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the reactor compartment, in particular the bowl-shaped element of the reactor compartment containing at least one upflow region, advantageously a hemisphere, includes a horizontal division. In particular, it is divided horizontally in the form of reactor hemispheres arranged overlapping each other horizontally.

[0094] Particularly advantageously, due to the horizontal division of the bowl-shaped element of the reactor compartment, advantageously a hemisphere, in particular the horizontal division in the form of arranging reactor hemispheres overlapping each other horizontally, a static stirring device is configured in at least one upflow region of the culture chamber in the assembled state of the photobioreactor.

[0095] Advantageously, the culture chamber of the photobioreactor, in particular at least one upflow region of the culture chamber, has at least two, advantageously at least three, advantageously at least four, advantageously at least five, advantageously at least six, advantageously at least seven, advantageously at least eight, advantageously at least nine, advantageously at least ten, advantageously at least fifteen, advantageously at least twenty, advantageously at least twenty-five, advantageously at least thirty, advantageously at least thirty-five, advantageously at least forty, advantageously at least forty-five, advantageously at least fifty, advantageously at least fifty-five, advantageously at least sixty static stirring devices, in particular static stirring devices arranged overlapping each other.

[0096] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the culture chamber of the photobioreactor, in particular at least one upflow region of the culture chamber, has a maximum of one hundred, advantageously a maximum of ninety, advantageously a maximum of eighty, advantageously a maximum of seventy, advantageously a maximum of sixty, advantageously a maximum of fifty, advantageously a maximum of forty, advantageously a maximum of thirty-five, advantageously a maximum of thirty, advantageously a maximum of twenty-five, advantageously a maximum of twenty, advantageously a maximum of fifteen, advantageously a maximum of ten, advantageously a maximum of nine, advantageously a maximum of eight, advantageously a maximum of seven, advantageously a maximum of six, advantageously a maximum of five static stirrers, in particular static stirrers arranged one on top of the other.

[0097] The invention also relates to a method for culturing photosynthetic microorganisms, comprising: a) preparing a culture medium containing at least one photosynthetic microorganism; b) preparing a modularly constructed photobioreactor according to the invention; c) culturing at least one photosynthetic microorganism in the modularly constructed photobioreactor according to the invention. The invention also relates to such a method.

[0098] A further aspect of the invention relates to the use of a modularly constructed photobioreactor according to the invention for culturing photosynthetic microorganisms.

[0099] The embodiments described in connection with the modularly constructed photobioreactor according to the invention are also applicable, mutatis mutandis, to the method for culturing photosynthetic microorganisms according to the invention and to the use of the modularly constructed photobioreactor according to the invention for culturing photosynthetic microorganisms.

[0100] In the present invention, the concept of "a modularly constructed photo-bioreactor" is understood as a bioreactor suitable for culturing photosynthetic microorganisms, and the bioreactor is constructed from a plurality of components, in particular two end pieces, and at least one reactor compartment arranged between the two end pieces, and is characterized by being expandable by removing or adding each component, in particular each reactor compartment, corresponding to the requirements for the bioreactor. The "modular structure" of the photo-bioreactor according to the present invention enables expansion of the reactor volume, and in addition, enables easy assembly and disassembly of the photo-bioreactor for maintenance and servicing purposes. In particular, the "modularly constructed photo-bioreactor" according to the present invention includes the first and second end pieces, and a single reactor compartment can be arranged therebetween, where a culture chamber is formed by joining by shape engagement between both end pieces and the single reactor compartment arranged therebetween, and the culture chambers are in fluid communication with each other, whereby the total volume of the photo-bioreactor is characterized by being expandable according to the number of reactor compartments arranged between both end pieces.

[0101] In the context of the present invention, the expression "culture chamber" is used for a space defined and isolated by the installation of walls inside the modularly constructed photo-bioreactor according to the present invention, and the space has a volume suitable for receiving a culture medium and culturing photosynthetic microorganisms present in the culture medium. Advantageously, each "culture chamber" of the photo-bioreactor according to the present invention is characterized by being formed by joining by shape engagement between both end pieces and at least one reactor compartment. Particularly advantageously, the "culture chamber" has at least one upflow region and at least one downflow region.

[0102] "Reactor compartment" refers to a component of the modularly constructed photobioreactor according to the present invention, and at least one culture chamber is formed by joining said component by shape engagement with another "reactor compartment" and / or the end piece of the photobioreactor. Particularly advantageously, the reactor compartment has two bowl-shaped elements, in particular two hemispheres, which are arranged back to back and connected to each other.

[0103] In the present invention, the concept of "riser" refers to an isolated area in the culture chamber, within which the introduced gas and the culture medium present in the culture chamber are transported by rising vertically.

[0104] In the present invention, the concept of "downcomer" or "downer" refers to an isolated area in the culture chamber, within which the culture medium present in the culture chamber is transported by descending vertically.

[0105] In the present invention, the term "warm white LED" is understood to mean a light-emitting diode, which emits visible light in the range of a color temperature of 1500 to 4500 K, preferably 1750 to 3500 K, preferably 2000 to 3000 K when a forward current flows.

[0106] In the present invention, the concept of "cool white LED" is used for a light-emitting diode, which emits visible light in the range of a color temperature of 4750 to 8000 K, preferably 5000 to 7000 K, preferably 5250 to 6000 K when a forward current flows.

[0107] In the context of the present invention, the term "blue LED" is understood to mean a light-emitting diode, which, when a forward current flows therethrough, emits visible light in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm, preferably 410 to 490 nm, preferably 420 to 480 nm, preferably 430 to 470 nm.

[0108] In the present invention, the term "red LED" is understood to mean a light-emitting diode, which, when a forward current flows therethrough, emits visible light in the wavelength range of 600 to 700 nm, preferably 610 to 690 nm, preferably 620 to 680 nm, preferably 630 to 670 nm.

[0109] In the context of the present invention, the concepts of "comprising" and "having" are understood to include, in addition to the elements explicitly encompassed by these concepts, further elements that are not explicitly named. In the context of the present invention, these concepts are also understood to include only the explicitly named elements and no other elements. In this particular embodiment, the concepts of "comprising" and "having" are synonymous with "consisting of".

[0110] Furthermore, the concepts of "comprising" and "having" also include, in addition to the explicitly named elements, other unnamed elements, but also include components that are of a subordinate nature in terms of function and quality. In this embodiment, the concepts of "comprising" and "having" are synonymous with "substantially consisting of".

[0111] In the context of the present invention, the concept of "and / or" is understood to mean that all members of the group connected by the concept of "and / or" are explicitly disclosed not only selectively with respect to each other but also in any combination that accumulates vertically and horizontally. That is, in the expression "A, B and / or C", it is meant to be understood as the disclosure content of a) A or B or C, or b) (A and B), or c) (A and C), or d) (B and C), or e) (A and B and C).

[0112] In the context of the present invention, the first and second decimal places, or the second decimal place, are not displayed and are set to 0.

[0113] Further advantageous embodiments result from the dependent claims.

[0114] The present invention is illustrated by the following drawings without limiting the general inventive concept.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0115] 1 Photobioreactor 2 First end piece 2a Hemisphere of the first end piece 3 First reactor compartment 3a First hemisphere of the first reactor compartment 3b Second hemisphere of the first reactor compartment 4 Second reactor compartment 4a First hemisphere of the second reactor compartment 4b Second hemisphere of the second reactor compartment 5 Second end piece 5a Hemisphere of the second end piece 6 Downflow region 6a - 6h Downflow region 7 Upflow region 7a - 7g Upflow region 8 Lighting layer 10 First culture chamber 11 Sealing 12 Static stirring device 20 Second culture chamber 30 Third culture chamber A - A Cross-section of the upflow region of the reactor compartment B - B Cross-section of the downflow region of the reactor compartment

Claims

1. A modularly constructed photobioreactor (1) comprising a first end piece (2), a second end piece (5), and at least one reactor compartment positioned between the first end piece (2) and the second end piece (5), wherein the photobioreactor comprises at least two culture chambers, the at least two culture chambers being formed by a joint by shape engagement between the two end pieces (2, 5) and the at least one reactor compartment, each of the culture chambers of the photobioreactor (1) being in fluid communication with each other, and both end pieces (2, 5) and the at least one reactor compartment each containing at least one light source, wherein the at least one reactor compartment has two bowl-shaped elements connected to each other in a back-to-back arrangement.

2. A modularly constructed photobioreactor (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that a first culture chamber is formed by joining the at least one reactor compartment and the first end piece (2) by shape engagement, and a second culture chamber is formed by joining the at least one reactor compartment and the second end piece (5) by shape engagement.

3. A modularly constructed photobioreactor (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that each of the culture chambers has at least one descending flow region (6) and at least one ascending flow region (7).

4. A modularly constructed photobioreactor (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that at least one descending flow region (6) of a culture chamber flows into at least one ascending flow region (7) of at least one adjacent culture chamber.

5. A modularly constructed photobioreactor (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the light sources is an LED light.

6. A modularly constructed photobioreactor (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that an illumination layer (8) containing at least one light source of the reactor compartment is present between the two bowl-shaped elements.

7. A modularly constructed photobioreactor (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that both end pieces (2, 5) and the at least one reactor compartment are arranged adjacent to each other in the horizontal direction and pressed together through a terminal cover plate.

8. The modularly constructed photobioreactor (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one reactor compartment has a height of 0.5 to 4 m, preferably 1 to 3 m.

9. A modularly constructed photobioreactor (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one reactor compartment has a width of 0.5 to 4 m, preferably 1 to 3 m.

10. A method for culturing photosynthetic microorganisms, a) A step of preparing a culture medium containing at least one photosynthetic microorganism, b) The step of preparing a modularly constructed photobioreactor (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, c) The modularly constructed photobioreactor (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising the step of culturing the at least one photosynthetic microorganism, A method that includes this.

11. Use of a modularly constructed photobioreactor (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 for culturing photosynthetic microorganisms.

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