Fouling identification in reciprocal membrane photobioreactor (RMPBR) containing Chlorella vulgaris species: Hydraulic resistances assessment

Abstract

BACKGROUNDThe membrane photobioreactor is a combination of membrane technology and the photobioreactor system. It is an economic and efficient system for microalgae cultivation. Light cycles and its intensity are significant parameters in the biomass production and synthesis of metabolites, such as protein and carbohydrates, within the microalgae cells. These parameters can, therefore, have a significant impact on the rate and characteristics of fouling in membrane photobioreactor systems.RESULTSIn this work, Chlorella vulgaris (green microalgae) was cultivated within the designed reciprocal membrane photobioreactor (RMPBR) under 24–0, 16–8, and 12–12 light–dark (L/D) cycles. Also, the transmembrane pressure (TMP) and different hydraulic membrane resistances (cake layer, pore‐blocking, and fluid resistances) were investigated. The 16–8 L/D cycle had the fastest fouling time (96 h), highest pore‐blocking resistance (Rp), and the maximum concentrations of protein and carbohydrate in the supernatant and permeate flux. However, the 12–12 L/D recorded the maximum cake layer resistance (Rc), the highest content of protein within the cake layer, and the longest fouling time (226 h). Additionally, the highest carbohydrate concentration within the cake layer was for the 24–0 L/D regime, and it was fouled after 162 h.CONCLUSIONThe Rc for each cycle had the highest values compared to the other calculated resistances. When the membrane is fouled, the mechanical membrane cleaning method employed in the RMPBR, which is in the form of an automatic spongy blade, cleans the cake layer on the membrane and improves its operation up to 80% via decreasing the Rt of the system. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI)

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