[H-CG24] Advanced life support systems with closed bio-ecosystems and thier applications

[HCG24-02] Novel biofilm photobioreactor for closed ecological life support system

★Invited Papers

*Junpei Nomura^1,2, Takashi Inada¹, Shinichi Aoki^1,2 (1. Chitose Laboratory Corp, 2.Institute of Microalgal Technology, Japan)

Keywords:microalgae, Porous substrate bioreactor

To avoid serious issues such as food and protein shortage, establishing a new food and protein production system to replace conventional agriculture is an urgent task for humanity. Recently, microalgae have been a focus of interest as a new source of food and protein, with Arthrospira (Spirulina) platensis being one of the representatives due to its long history of safe consumption, high protein content, and a standardized commercial production.
Efforts have been made to cultivate Arthrospira under microgravity conditions, mostly through liquid culture methods. However, a major challenge with this cultivation method is the significant water requirement. This not only relates to the management of valuable water resources but also necessitates concentration and filtration processes for biomass recovery.
To address these issues, we have been focusing on solid-state cultivation as a novel cultivation method. This method involves cultivating microalgae on solid surfaces, significantly reducing water usage and eliminating the need for biomass concentration and filtration since the biomass grows directly on a solid surface.
In this study, we will report the status of substrate selection, which is crucial for this cultivation method, and compare the biomass productivity per unit area with conventional cultivation methods.