A Platform for Scalable and Sustainable Microalgae Production
The SBC–MC Algae Cultivation Facility (ACF) is an advanced outdoor photobioreactor platform designed to support efficient, scalable, and cost-effective microalgae cultivation for research and industry collaboration. Located within SBC’s algae innovation ecosystem, the facility spans 1,000 m² and has the capacity to produce up to 6 tonnes of dried algae biomass annually.
Designed to maximise productivity while maintaining operational efficiency, the ACF utilises indigenous microalgae strains that are naturally adapted to Sarawak’s tropical climate and light conditions. The cultivation system employs 24-metre-long thin-film flat panel bags made of low-density polyethylene, forming an optimised outdoor photobioreactor configuration that balances productivity with cost efficiency.
Supporting the production system are two 81 m² algae seed cultivation units, which serve as an intermediate stage for scaling up cultures before transferring them into the larger cultivation arrays. This step ensures healthy culture development and stable production performance.
The flat-panel photobioreactor design provides several advantages for commercial algae cultivation. Its high surface-area-to-volume ratio maximises light exposure, enabling stronger photosynthetic activity and improved biomass productivity. The system also allows efficient gas–liquid transfer, simplified operational management, and a lower risk of contamination, making it a reliable platform for consistent algae production.
To enhance operational efficiency, the facility integrates an Internet of Things (IoT)-based monitoring system, allowing real-time monitoring of key cultivation parameters such as pH, temperature, and light intensity. Automated control functions help maintain optimal growth conditions, including temperature regulation and environmental adjustments, ensuring stable cultivation performance and reliable data for process optimisation.
The ACF also incorporates solar panel systems to power parts of its operations, reflecting SBC’s commitment to sustainable and low-carbon bio-manufacturing.
