Degradation of Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) Bioreactors Used for Algal Cultivation

Abstract

This paper depicts characteristics of degradation of walls of bioreactors made of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) which was used to culture algae. The degradation processes take place stimulated by lighting of external surface and interaction with cultured species on internal surface. Results presented are representative for degradation of a bioreactor tube after the 4-year cultivation of Chlorella sp. Microscopic observations, roughness and transmission tests showed that changes have occurred on the inner surface. The result of use is a decrease in transmission and an increase in roughness. Microscopic observations showed that particles remained after culture, especially in cracks.

Keywords

• algae
• bioreactors
• polymethylmethacrylate
• characterization
• mechanical properties
• transmission