This project helped develop a novel continuous bioprocessing line for the controlled cultivation of a variety of microalgae strains, leading to algal-based products.
Key facts
- The project looked at the first stages of developing manufacturing routines and scale-up strategies for specific bioprocessing steps.
- Thanks to the IMAGE programme, Centillion Technology has developed a control platform, strain screening and process development.
- Funded by IMAGE (Innovation in Manufacturing, Aerospace and the Green Economy), part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund
Impact of our research
Centillion Technology said: "The IMAGE project has been extremely useful to us in accessing key scientific resources not otherwise easily available to the company. It has also led to deliverables we can now take further. Specifically, the control and monitoring systems exceeded expectations as complete hardware and software solutions were built, delivered and tested. Furthermore, the project significantly contributed to the development of a version 1 process for algae cultivation within the Centillion reactor, leveraging fully its advantages."
Thanks to the IMAGE programme, Centillion are now looking to scale-up the media formulations prepared in the project and test on large-scale facilities, integrate the monitoring and control systems and conduct large-scale algal growth tests based on the formulation of the media and one of the five strains considered in the project.
Why the research was commissioned
Centillion Technology were looking to develop a novel continuous bioprocessing line for the controlled cultivation of a variety of microalgae strains, leading to algal-based products, including high value oils and proteins. This was the first stage to develop manufacturing routines and scale-up strategies for specific bioprocessing steps.
Why Cranfield?
The IMAGE project allowed Centillion Technology to access key scientific resources that would not otherwise be easily available.
