Numerical analysis of hydrodynamic conditions in pilot flat-panel photobioreactor: operating and design parameters influence on the microalgae cultivation

The aim of this work was to investigate the influence of hydrodynamic conditions on the process of microalgae cultivation in a pilot flat-panel photobioreactor (150 L of culture medium). Based on the pulse-input indicator measurement, the numerical model of the hydrodynamic conditions in the photobioreactor was validated. Using this model, it is possible to simulate the hydrodynamic conditions for different operating parameters. For the selected operating conditions, the wall shear stress distribution on the transparent plates of the photobioreactor was created. Simulated data were compared with biofilm formation during microalgae cultivation. According to this, it is possible to specify the required wall shear stress corresponding to the elimination of biofilm formation. Using the developed numerical model, it is possible to simulate the hydrodynamic conditions of the various operating and design parameters. The results of this work can be used for further scale-up of the equipment, for the design optimization, and for the development of novel cultivation system.
Postprint (published version)