Sustainable Optimization of Microalgae Cultures with High Biotechnological Potential

• Grant number: 25/28316-9
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: June 01, 2026
• End date: May 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Chemical Engineering - Chemical Process Industries
• Principal Investigator: Antonio Carlos Luperni Horta
• Grantee: Antonio Carlos Luperni Horta
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Exatas e de Tecnologia (CCET). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• City of the host institution: São Carlos
• Associated researchers: Ana Teresa Lombardi ; Fernando Vines Faria de Lima ; Kelma Maria dos Santos Pires Cavalcante ; Maria da Conceição Ferreira de Oliveira

Abstract

This project proposes to integrate multi-objective optimization techniques with advanced control strategies in microalgae cultivation, using sustainability indicators based on the GREENSCOPE framework. Precise control of photosynthetically active radiation is critical for photobioreactor performance, as different light intensities and wavelengths regulate metabolic pathways, influencing process efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. The activities will be conducted in four main stages: (i) experimental data collection in an airlift photobioreactor with artificial illumination, varying light intensity and wavelength; (ii) development of a hybrid kinetic model, combining phenomenological equations with machine learning to correlate lighting conditions with cell growth and metabolite formation; (iii) in silico optimization of the process to maximize sustainability indicators; and (iv) experimental validation of the operating conditions defined by the optimizer. The main goal is to demonstrate the potential of sustainability-driven optimizers to support the modernization of biotechnological processes, considering energy, mass, economic, and environmental indicators simultaneously. The case study focuses on the microalgae Scenedesmus obliquus and Haematococcus pluvialis, known for their high biomass productivity and for producing valuable biocompounds such as lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and carotenoids like astaxanthin. (AU)