Sustainable β-carotene production using dunaliella salina in open pond systems

Overview

This innovative solution involves the cultivation of Dunaliella salina, a microalga, in large-scale open pond systems to sustainably produce β-carotene. Utilizing natural sunlight and nutrient limitation, this method aims to hyperaccumulate β-carotene, providing a cost-effective and scalable approach to producing high-quality algae-derived nutrition. The process capitalizes on the alga's genetic advantages and effective carbon utilization pathways, demonstrating its potential for large-scale commercial production.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Utilizes Dunaliella salina, known for its high biomass productivity and ability to accumulate β-carotene under high light conditions.
• Cultivation in raceway ponds using seawater, optimizing conditions to maximize β-carotene yield.
• Plans to scale production from pilot-scale (4000 L) to full-scale (100000 L) raceway ponds.
• Enhancements in downstream processing, including improved extraction and purification techniques in a 5,000 sqm facility.
• Conducting sustainability assessments to ensure environmental and cost-effectiveness.

Technology readiness level

This technology is at TRL 6, indicating a prototype demonstration in a relevant environment, with ongoing efforts to optimize conditions for full-scale implementation.