Immobilization of Microalgae Scenedesmus ovalternus (Scenedesmaceae) and Chlorella vulgaris (Chlorellaceae) in Calcium Alginate Beads

This paper describes the immobilization technique of microalgae in calcium alginate beads. Scenedesmus ovalternus and Chlorella vulgaris species were used. The stability of beads, the kinetics of growth and the concentrations of microalgae inside the beads were determined. The higher density and the upper growth rate of Chlorella vulgaris occurred when it was immobilized in alginate at a concentration of 10 % v/v (1,31* 10(6) cel/ml). Scenedesmus ovalternus achieved a higher population density and an elevated growth rate when it was immobilized at a concentration of 20 % v/v (7,06* 10(5) cel/ml). These results are useful for subsequent applications of the encapsulated algae, such as biomonitoring and bioremediation.