| abstract |
Concentration of microalgae cultures by an osmotic elimination process of the medium using glycerol solutions. # The present invention consists in concentrating microalgae cultures by means of an economical and low energy consumption process being able to reuse the residual glycerol from biodiesel synthesis. Glycerol solution constitutes the osmotic solution, which is brought into contact with the microalgae culture through a semipermeable membrane. The difference in osmotic pressure between the culture and the glycerol solution causes the water to transfer to the glycerol, thus achieving, without the addition of chemicals or additional energy expenditure, the concentration of the crop. # This procedure allows the post-cultivation processes of microalgae smaller volumes are handled, with the subsequent cut in the cost of equipment, supplies and energy. # Alternatives: centrifugation, flocculation, osmosis with seawater. |