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An overview of microalgae industrial phycology

Conference · · Journal of Phycology; (United States)
OSTI ID:6944206

Microalgae, Chlorella, production for health foods has been an established industry in the Far East for over twenty five years. Since the mid-1970's, commercial Spirulina production has been carried out, first in Mexico, and since then by several companies, including two located in the United States. Spirulina is sold not only in the health food trade, but is also used in the extraction of food coloring agents and aquaculture feeds. Since the early 1980's, Dunaliella has been produced in the US, Australia, and Israel for its beta-carotene content. Microalgae are also being produced at a small scale for aquaculture feeds and several companies are developing processes for the controlled cultivation of microalgae in bioreactors for speciality products, including essential fatty acids, pigments, diagnostic reagents, etc. The commercial applications of microalgae extend to wastewater treatment, including heavy metals removal. The steady progress of microalgae industrial phycology promises to continue in the coming years and decades.

OSTI ID:
6944206
Report Number(s):
CONF-9208211--
Journal Information:
Journal of Phycology; (United States), Journal Name: Journal of Phycology; (United States) Vol. 28:3; ISSN JPYLAJ; ISSN 0022-3646
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English