Rapid aggregation of biofuel-producing algae by the bacterium Bacillus sp. strain RP1137.

ABSTRACT: Algal biofuels represent one of the most promising means of sustainably replacing liquid fuels. However, significant challenges remain before alga-based fuels become competitive with fossil fuels. One of the largest challenges is the ability to harvest the algae in an economical and low-energy manner. In this article, we describe the isolation of a bacterial strain, Bacillus sp. strain RP1137, which can rapidly aggregate several algae that are candidates for biofuel production, including a Nannochloropsis sp. This bacterium aggregates algae in a pH-dependent and reversible manner and retains its aggregation ability after paraformaldehyde fixation, opening the possibility for reuse of the cells. The optimal ratio of bacteria to algae is described, as is the robustness of aggregation at diff

SUBMITTER: Powell RJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3811378 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature