Abstract
Inefficient cell separation is considered to be a critical bottleneck when exploiting microalgal biomass as a renewable resource. Since cell density after cultivation is usually <5% (bio dried mass), new methods for concentrating biomass are being developed, and magnetic separation is a recent approach. In this study, we characterize magnetic microparticles (MMPs) derived from natural iron ores and utilize them to harvest saline microalgae Microchloropsis salina (previously Nannochloropsis salina). A harvesting efficiency for M. salina of up to 98% was reached at alkaline conditions, via magnetic separation. The precipitation of medium components (mainly calcium phosphate and magnesium hydroxide) induced flocculation of the algal cells around the MMPs at an alkaline pH. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of an MMP-mediated harvesting process for saline microalgae as a promising first step towards the separation and fractionation of valuable microalgal products for applications in various life science fields.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
