Pulse Flow Algae Circulation System for Biofouling Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Algae cultivation systems face significant productivity losses due to biofouling, where algae cells adhere to surfaces, disrupting photosynthesis, nutrient ingestion, and leading to cell death and contamination, necessitating frequent system interruptions for cleaning.
Innovation Solution
A pulse flow circulation system using an elevated flush tank to dislodge adherent algae cells and promote turbulence, enhancing nutrient access and light exposure through a combination of a circulation pump, conduit, gas exchange tank, and timed or level-activated effluent release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If algae cells are continuously circulated through the system, then nutrient ingestion is improved, but algae cells adhere to surfaces causing biofouling
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic reverse flow cycles where fluid direction is alternated between forward and reverse directions. During reverse flow, algae cells that have adhered to surfaces are dislodged and redistributed into the bulk culture, preventing biofouling while maintaining continuous circulation benefits for nutrient ingestion
2Productivity
If algae cells adhere to the light transmitting cover, then photosynthesis is disrupted, but continuous circulation is needed for productivity
Solution Approach 1:
Periodic reverse flow is implemented to dislodge algae cells from the light transmitting cover and other surfaces. The alternating flow direction creates shear forces that prevent permanent adhesion, ensuring light transmission is maintained while continuous circulation provides nutrient delivery
3Illumination intensity
If algae cells settle on surfaces, then light reception is insufficient, but circulation causes biofouling
Solution Approach 1:
The periodic reverse flow system prevents algae cells from settling on surfaces by continuously redistributing them into the bulk culture where they remain suspended and accessible to light. This simple flow reversal mechanism avoids complex agitation systems while maintaining optimal light reception
4Productivity
If the system is drained and cleaned frequently to remove biofouling, then productivity is maintained, but system interruptions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The periodic reverse flow acts as a continuous self-cleaning mechanism that prevents biofouling accumulation rather than allowing it to build up and require drainage. By reversing flow at regular intervals, algae cells are dislodged before they can form persistent biofilms, eliminating frequent maintenance interruptions
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-cleaning through its own circulation mechanism. The periodic reverse flow uses the existing pump and piping infrastructure to dislodge and redistribute algae cells, eliminating the need for external cleaning operations or system drainage
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively minimizes biofouling by regularly circulating algae cells, improving photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, thereby increasing algae growth efficiency and reducing maintenance interruptions.
Implementation Method 1
the present invention pertains to the use of a system that can continuously grow algae in a more efficient manner by minimizing complications caused by biofouling. In particular, the present invention is particularly, but not exclusively, useful as a system for increasing the productivity of algae growth systems by using a pulse flow to periodically stir and rinse the algae cultivation apparatus.
Implementation Method 2
A pulse flow circulation system using an elevated flush tank to dislodge adherent algae cells and promote turbulence, enhancing nutrient access and light exposure
Implementation Method 3
algae is known to be one of the most efficient plants for converting solar energy into cell growth, so it is of particular interest as a biofuel source. In an algae cultivation system, the algae cells are typically grown in a cultivation apparatus as part of a liquid medium that is exposed to sunlight to promote photosynthetic growth.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for using a pulse flow to circulate algae in an algae cultivation apparatus are provided. In order to counteract the negative effects of biofouling on algae cultivation equipment, a pulse flow is created to periodically move through an algae cultivation apparatus. The pulse flow will dislodge algae cells adhering to various surfaces of the apparatus, and it will also create turbulence to stir up any algae cells which may have settled onto the bottom of the apparatus. To produce an increased fluid flow rate required to create an effective pulse flow, a sump, which is periodically filled with drawn algal culture from the apparatus, is located at an elevated position above the apparatus. When released, the algal culture travels through a transfer pipe and into the apparatus with gravity causing the algal culture to flow at a very high rate.