Heterotrophic growth of Aphanothece microscopica Nägeli in calcium alginate beads from BG11 medium and vinasse

Abstract

The application of microalgae immobilized in the treatment of wastewater has increased in recent years with emphasis mainly on the simultaneous removal of carbon and nitrogen, besides other nutrients such as phosphorus. As for the cellular immobilization methods, the encapsulation system in matrices of macromolecules such as alginate has aroused interest due to its characteristics of biodegradability, biocompatibility and non-toxicity. In this context, the objective of the research was the development of alginate beads for the immobilization of the cyanobacterium Aphanothece microscopica Nägeli , as well as the evaluation of growth and ability to remove glucose, as example of organic compound, from the liquid “bulk” phase. Results indicate the higher specific growth feasibility of heterotrophic growth of immobilized cyanobacteria Aphanothece microscopica Nägeli on calcium alginate beads from BG11 medium and sugarcane vinasse, with perspective of continuous removal of organic matter from wastewaters by this microalgae growth system.

Keywords

• cianobactérias, imobilização, alginato, vinhaça