Ever Wonder How To Grow Algae In A Photobioreactor?

Shawn shows us how the PBR (Photobioreactor) 1250L works. This is one of the three sizes of PBR available. Choose from our 100L, 1250L, or 2500L PBR’s.

These algae bioreactors can culture either freshwater or saltwater (marine) microalgae. Culture one algae species at a time. If you would like to culture a different species simply harvest your current culture, run the spray cleaning cycle, and reinoculate with your new fresh culture.

This system is great for culturing algae to use in aquaculture, research, biotech, or wastewater treatment.

PBR Biosecurity and Controls

Once your algae photobioreactor has been inoculated it will automatically scale up the culture inside the tank. Above all, this is done while keeping biosecurity as a top priority, with all of the incoming air and water being filtered. The PBR will keep your algae cells growing exponentially, as it adds more nutrients, water. It also controls the temperature and pH constantly. This allows whatever algae your growing, including continuous diatom culture, can thrive.

Algae Harvest

When the algae reactor is full, the system can be set to harvest either continuously, or in batch. While in continuous harvest mode it will be replacing the harvested algae with additional water and nutrients to maintain the exponential growth inside the tank.
All of your vital parameters for culturing algae can be controlled through the touch screen control – or your mobile device. To begin, set your desired temperature, pH, amount of nutrients you would like added per liter for water, harvest rate, and light level.

Photobioreactor Cleaning

Between batches, you can run the self-cleaning cycle. Add fresh water and your cleaning agent, run the cycle by pressing a button. Afterward, add your sterilizing agent to the tank to remove any biofilm. Run the spray cleaning cycle again, drain, and you’re ready to reinoculate!

More videos on our products and how to grow algae can be found on our YouTube Channel.

Interested in learning more about the wonderful world of algae? Check out our Glossary for an introduction to algae, bioreactors, and much more!