Optimization of radiator position in an internally radiating photobioreactor: A model simulation study

Abstract

This study focused on the optimization of the illumination method for efficient use of light energies in a photobioreactor. In order to investigate the effect of radiator position, a model simulation study was carried out using Synechococcus sp. PCC 6301 and an internally radiating photobioreactor as a model system. The efficiency of light transfer in a photobioreactor was analyzed by estimating the average light intensity in a photobioreactor. The simulation results indicate that there exists an optimal position of internal radiators, and that the optimal position varies with radiator number and cell concentration. When light radiators are placed at the optimal position, the average light intensity is about 30% higher than that obtained by placing radiators at the circumstance or center of a photobioreactor. The method presented in this work may be useful for improving light transfer efficiency in a photobioreactor.