Optimization of micro-algae Chlorella vulgaris culture to increase the production of starch in Iran 2014

Increased population growth and the creation of major economic powers has led to increase in the world's energy consumption. In 2008, 88% of the energy consumption of the world was formed by fossil fuels. Since in Iran, fuel for transportation system produces the essential pollutants, substituting these fuels with biofuels, including bioethanol and biodiesel, can effectively reduce pollution in the environment. Some species of microalgae, have the ability to store high levels of carbohydrates, rather than lipids. These microalgae are good candidates for the production of bioethanol since the carbohydrates in their biomass, can be extracted and fermented to bioethanol. The purpose of this study was to optimize the microalgae culture, to increase the production of starch. This study was performed in laboratory scale. The microalga Chlorella vulgaris was procured from Persian Type Culture Collection (PTCC) of Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology. Culture media BBM and Z8 were selected for growth and production of starch. Optical density, cell counting and dry biomass were measured in these media. Regarding significant difference (P