A mathematical model of microalgal growth in light‐limited chemostat culture

Abstract

Abstract A mathematical model for light‐limited growth of a continuous microalgal culture is proposed. Average light intensity inside the photobioreactor was calculated, taking light attenuation by algae into account. The biomass absorption coefficient was determined by means of two new parameters, the pigment‐free biomass, Y B , and the total pigment absorption, Y p (absorption coefficient normalized to total pigment content). The model reproduced the steady states reached and the dynamic behaviour of the system when the dilution rate was changed.