Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) technology for algae and seaweeds

Pulsemaster’s Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) process allows selective cell extraction of components such as lipids, cell proliferation by PEF induced stress reactions and control of contaminants such as protozoa in microalgae cultures. Algae are a major source of neutraceuticals and valuable ingredients such as pigments, vitamins and proteins. PEF treatment of microalgae enables selective harvesting and extracting valuable ingredients. These algae products are used in feed, food and energy applications.

Harvesting and extracting valuable ingredients from seaweeds
Seaweeds are a diverse group of large marine macroalgae. Seaweeds can be used for human consumption, as a protein source in fish feed, as a source of pharmaceuticals, phycocolloids and other biochemicals, or as a carbon source for biofuel production. Aquaculture production of seaweeds is dominated by kelps. Valuable seaweed extracts include agar, carrageenan and alginate for use in food, nutritional supplements and fertilizers. PEF treatment can also help control contaminants such as protozoa in kelp cultures, to protect the microscopic stages of kelp and other seaweeds.

Stress Response
A very mild Pulsemaster PEF treatment can induce formation of phytochemicals (secondary metabolites) in biological tissues. A field strength of 0,1 – 0,5 kV/cm and energy delivery of 0,1 – 1,0 kJ/kg suffices to induce this effect. As a result the concentration of phytochemicals in plant materials such as algae and seaweeds is increased.