Biosolar – Microalgae project solutions from a single source

Algae can be cultivated in fresh, brackish water or saltwater. They are characterized by a low land requirement and low water consumption. Areas usable for food production are not occupied.

Microalgae use CO₂ as a carbon source and produce oxygen and biomass.

Microalgae convert absorbed solar energy into biomass five- to ten-times better compared to terrestrial plants. Thus, microalgae get more out of the sun and grow more efficiently.

Microalgae have a high protein and lipid content and possess a wealth of valuable ingredients such as pigments, carotenoids, vitamins, essential fatty acids and much more. They thus prove to be multi-talents with enormous application potential.

A stable and resource-saving production of microalgae biomass requires a cultivation system with a high degree of effectiveness and controllability. Process control within the ideal growth range of the microalgae requires gentle temperature control with an effective supply of sunlight. The innovative GICON^® PBR, based on the Christmas tree principle, combines for the first time the main requirements of photobioreactor systems for stable growth yields.

For this achievement, the photobioreactor was awarded "Innovation of the Month" (May 2012) by the German Center for Research & Innovation in New York.

The GICON^® PBR is designed for use as a stand-alone small plant, as a pilot plant for research and development, and as a basic module for large-scale industrial plants. By combining individual modules, reactor systems of any scale are achieveable. The systems are tailor-made to meet the client's requirements. Thus, they guarantee a continuous production of high-quality, defined algae biomass.

At the core of the GICON^® Photobioreactor is the flexible, tubular silicone-based tube system. It is the result of the successful cooperation between GICON^® and Wacker Chemie AG. The novel, geometrically variable design of the double chamber system protects the algae from extreme temperature fluctuations. Thus, a precisely fitting temperature control of the cultures can be achieved. The silicone material employed significantly reduces the adhesion of microalgae to the reactor wall – also known as biofouling.

At the same time, tests have shown that the biomass produced is of a quality suitable for use in food and animal feed. Due to the outstanding advantages of the newly-developed system and the transport-friendly properties, the reactor can be used for the cultivation of photoactive microorganisms worldwide; regardless of temperatures and environmental conditions.