What is seaweed farming and what is its importance?
Algae culture is a key technique in modern biotechnology, used for the production of biomass, bioenergy, bioactive compounds, and for environmental research. Climatic chambers provide the precise control of environmental factors that these species need to grow efficiently and reproducibly.
Critical parameters in algae cultivation
The success of algae cultivation depends on the optimal management of several environmental conditions:
Temperature:
- Ideal range: 15°C-30°C depending on the species.
- Minimal fluctuations are necessary to avoid heat stress that may affect productivity.
Lighting:
- Light is essential for algal photosynthesis.
- Adjustable spectra (400-700 nm) and customised photoperiodic cycles are essential to maximise growth.
- Intensities between 50-200 µmol/m²/s are most common in closed cultures.
CO₂:
- Carbon dioxide levels should be regulated between 1%-5% to stimulate growth and control the pH of the medium.
Agitation and flow:
- Controlled movement ensures uniform nutrient distribution and adequate exposure to light.
Nutrients:
- Culture media should contain macronutrients (nitrates, phosphates) and micronutrients essential for algae.
Applications of algae culture
Biomass and bioenergy production:
- Microalgae crops such as Chlorella or Spirulina are sustainable sources of bioenergy and biofuels.
Food and cosmetics industry:
- Production of food additives, plant proteins and natural antioxidants.
- Production of bioactive compounds used in high-value cosmetics.
Environmental research:
- Use of algae in bioremediation projects to remove pollutants from wastewater.
- Study of the impact of climate change on aquatic ecosystems.
Pharmaceutical development:
- Obtaining bioactive compounds for medicines, such as carotenoids and omega-3 fatty acids.
Benefits of using climatic chambers in seaweed cultivation
Advanced climate chambers provide an ideal controlled environment to optimise the performance of algae cultivation:
Precision environmental control:
- Precise regulation of temperature, lighting and CO₂ levels to simulate specific aquatic conditions.
- Maintenance of homogeneous parameters throughout the cultivation space.
Maximisation of growth:
- Adjustable LED lighting systems to adapt spectrums and photoperiodic cycles according to the needs of the crop.
Reduced operating costs:
- Efficient use of energy and optimisation of nutrient and CO₂ consumption.
Traceability and replicability:
- Real-time data recording for detailed analysis and repeatability of experimental conditions.
What solutions does TestingLab offer for algae cultivation?
TestingLab has climatic chambers specifically designed for algae cultivation. Our EGCS ALG and ERIS ALG INOX LED production series can meet 99.9% of the needs you may have. They are specifically designed for the cultivation and growth of algae at different scales and with different applications:
- Chambers with adjustable lighting: Optimised spectra for efficient photosynthesis and controlled cycles.
- Integrated CO₂ control: Automatic systems to ensure the right concentration of carbon dioxide.
- Customised configuration: Equipment tailored to specific research or industrial production needs.
Do you want to boost your algae research or production?
TestingLab offers innovative solutions to optimise algae cultivation in controlled environments. Contact us here to find out how we can help you achieve your biotechnology and sustainability goals – we are ready to collaborate with you!