SME Instrument Phase 1: SBTech

Microalgae are increasingly used in human food, animal feed, health products, cosmetics, wastewater treatment, production of biodiesel and other industries. However, this growth is not reflected in European microalgae production, which lags behind other regions. As a result, some European industries depend on imports.

Currently, extensive algae production is made by using open raceway (RW) ponds.

The goal of the EU-funded SBTech SME instrument is to maximize the productivity, performance and efficiency of the microalgae culture techniques by applying Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) technology. SBTech is a breakthrough concept that combines two main novelties; (1) a High Yield Propeller Driving System (REHYS) within new raceways’ curves design; and (2) an intensive exchange mixing system by Stirring Blade Technology. SBTech can be implemented both in open RW ponds and in PhotoBioreactors (PBRs), decreasing energy consumption and improving the growth rate of algae.

This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme under Grant Agreement No 886240.