About This Project

Microalgae are overlooked constantly as a protein source because of it's high costs and complex maintenance conditions. We want to make a photobioreactor (PBR) system for the cultivation of spirulina that is compact. We hypothesize our sustainable, compact PBR can cost under $200, while producing 2g/L of Spirulina every 7-8 days.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

Microalgae are perhaps some of the most exciting and important organisms on the planet. Certain species of microalgae such as Chlorella or Arthrospira have the ability to triple their dry biomass per day under optimal PBR conditions, making them an ideal food source for humans and livestock alike. A single serving of Arthrospira Platensis, the algae we are growing in our PBR, contains up to 70% protein by dry weight and a host of other nutrients. The problem is, there is not a single automated and high-quality spirulina photobioreactor on the market, meaning people do not have access to this amazing superfood. We plan to change that with our photobioreactor design that is cost accessible. It's time that algal photobioreactors are not just for faceless corporations, but also for health-conscious consumers. We want to create a photobioreactor that grows spirulina at 2g/l after 7 days, because of our new nutrient and environment monitoring system.

What is the significance of this project?

Climate change is not on the horizon; it's happening now. The NOAA recently announced that 2025 was the third hottest year in recorded history, highlighting the urgency of the situation. In 2026 alone, scientists predict over 349 million people will be born, meaning the world will need roughly 125 billion more liters of water, and 300 million more tons of food. What if microalgae, the pond scum, can alleviate freshwater shortages, climate change, and healthy food shortages? By giving people access to our photobioreactor, meeting daily protein needs becomes significantly easier. Spirulina contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein sourceSpirulina is truly a protein powerhouse. As for sustainability, Spirulina sequesters carbon dioxide as it grows, but also uses 93% less water than land crops on a per acre basis. To summarize, the creation of this novel photobioreactor is a useful tool for allowing people to grow this sustainable superfood.

What are the goals of the project?

Right after receiving funding, my associate, Joshua will begin the coding for the photobioreactor parts. The PH sensor, Optical Density sensor, Peristaltic Pump, and bubbler will be connected to an Arduino uno programmed in C++. These are the essentials for our photobioreactor, allowing the spirulina to grow correctly. For consumers to view the values of density and PH in order to know when to harvest, these will be wired to a OLED or LCD display. Furthermore, the vessel that contains the microalgae will be made of borosilicate glass incased in a 3d printed white case in order to hide the electronic components. There will be a LED tape around the vessel so the Spirulina can photosynthesize. Our goals are to produce at least 2g/L of spirulina biomass every 7 days on a 18-on 6-off grow cycle while the PBR should cost less than $200.