Mathematical Modeling of the Size-structured Growth of Microalgae Dividing by Multiple Fission

Abstract

A novel mathematical model to simulate the size-structured growth of microalgal strains dividing by multiple fission is proposed. The model is validated by comparison with literature experimental data. Then, the implications of such division mode on crucial aspects of microalgae cultivation and processing, such as time for steady state achievement, biomass productivity and flocculant dosage, were assessed through proper numerical simulations. The model well captured the experimental results and thus represents a suitable tool for the simulation of the growth of microalgae strains dividing by multiple fission.