Production of Microcapsules used in Bioremediation and Plant Growth Support

Abstract

This publication contains a short description of the immobilization process. The advantages and disadvantages of immobilizing biological factors have been mentioned. The carriers used (mainly sodium alginate) have been described. Techniques used to carry out immobilization (using a carrier or not) are presented. Also discussed is a prototype microcapsule production plant that can be used in many industries, including food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical. Produced microcapsules, depending on the factors subjected to immobilization (chemical substances or microorganisms), can be used in bioremediation or in supporting plant growth. Due to the use of microcapsules, the immobilized medium is separated from the reaction medium. In the case of microorganisms, this results in an increase in their lifetime because fluctuations of some process parameters (eg temperature, pH, nutrient composition) do not affect them directly. Immobilized microorganisms, such as PGPR bacteria, can stimulate plant growth through the production of phytohormones, fight against pathogens and induce their systemic immunity. While, the use of microcapsules, with immobilized microorganisms, in bioaugmentation processes will allow them to provide optimal development conditions and extend their lifespan, thus extending their duration. The costs incurred will decrease because the number of repetitions will be reduced. The interest in using microcapsules in biotechnological processes, and not only, is increasing. They become an alternative to traditional techniques.