13 12 There is life within the PhotoBionicCell bioreactor from Festo. Microorganisms produce the desired biomass with maximum efficiency. To ensure that this contributes to a sustainable circular economy, the bioreactor is equipped with a host of future-oriented technologies and technical refinements. The method used by the specialists to automate the system with living cells is innovative and suitable for industrial application. In many of today’s reactors, the growth of microorganisms still entails laborious, error-prone manual sampling. In the new photo-bioreactor, the intelligent combination of sensors, software, components and technology ensures automated 24-hour monitoring and control for maximum yield in production. The developments involving the high-tech bioreactor are being brought about by an interdisciplinary team, drawing on knowledge from the fields of bionics, biology, automation technology and process engineering. For many decades, Festo as an open learning company has been following nature’s example in launching a large number of bionic projects, products and Future Concepts. The PhotoBionicCell with its biological cultures likewise stands for innovative learning paths: the experts are gaining more and more insights into how microorganisms can be cultivated in an energy-efficient and resource-saving way within a compact space. Their goal is to establish decentralised bioproduction locations that cultivate biomass on a large scale. The cell itself is set to become the factory of the future, so to speak. The algae cultures inside the PhotoBionicCell glow in various shades of green. Its body of acrylic glass with a capacity of 15 litres is supported by a sturdy lightweight structure. A further lightweight element hovers over it like a breathing sail: this comprises surface collectors, which exchange light, heat and material with the surroundings via transparent tubes. Many of the structures used for the bioreactor are 3D-printed; recyclable biomaterials are suitable for this process. The system is also equipped with individual components that work together in a coordinated manner – miniature pumps, valves, filters, sensors, controllers and much more. The automation system with its electrics and electronics is housed both within the structure of the exhibit and in its base. Movement takes place in a closed cycle inside the PhotoBionicCell. The green algae liquid is pumped upwards into the surface collectors, where it is distributed in a uniform flow and finally descends again. In this circulation, the naturally available resources of sunlight and carbon dioxide are absorbed from the surroundings, while oxygen is released into the air. The large surface of the collectors also serves to regulate the heat balance. Sensors detect the relevant parameters, such as filling level, amount of light, pH value, temperature and carbon dioxide content. In this way, the photo-bioreactor “knows” whether the carbon dioxide from the air is enough for its algae culture or needs to be added from a gas cartridge. If the daylight is no longer sufficient, special UV lamps are used. PhotoBionicCell – The photo-bioreactor What know-how does the PhotoBionicCell conceal? Microorganisms as factories Green and transparent Dynamic life – inside and out
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