PRESERVATION OF BIOPROCESS ALGAE FOR CERTIFIED SEEDSTOCK

The scope of this SBIR project is to develop the Kuehnle AgroSystem's technical innovation of live algae preservation to provide room temperature storage options for microalgae that are preferred for specific aquaculture and biofuels applications. A major bottleneck in developing algae biomass for the aquaculture and cleantech industry is absence of quality bulk live algae product. Live algae concentrates are highly perishable and simply unavailable in the trade. High-performance algae are stabilized in a matrix at ambient temperatures as a viable cell concentrate for inventory storage and global shipping purposes. This novel solution permits a reliable route to seeding of aquaria, hatcheries, and algae biomass farms. This Phase II research project seeks to expand the number of algae species for preservation, scale-up to commercial volumes, define metrics for quality assurance for seedstock, and apply the technologies in aquaculture to build a strong business foundation with cross-over to biofuels. This project will satisfy the USDA's Strategic Goals to enhance rural and farm economics, and to protect and enhance the nation's food supply, natural resource base and environment.