System and method for transporting algae

Abstract

The present invention provides for a method and transport system for conditioning micro algae grown in a commercial farm and transporting to a final destination while maintaining conditions that allow the microalgae to remain alive and healthy during transit.

That which is claim is: 
     
         1 . A system for transporting live algae from one algae growth facility to another algae growth facility, wherein the system comprises:
 an insulated storage tank for holding an aqueous liquid and live algae dispersed therein and wherein the insulated storage tank is adapted or adaptable for transport of the live algae at a temperature ranging from about 40 to 50° F.;   a food source connected to the insulated storage tank for introducing the food source to the aqueous liquid and live algae; and   an oxygen or sterilized air source communicatively connected to the insulated storage tank to provide oxygen and sterilized air and wherein the oxygen or sterilized air is maintained under positive pressure within the insulated storage tank to provide a stream of replenishing oxygen or sterilized air to the aqueous liquid and live algae.   
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the oxygen or sterilized air is maintained under positive pressure at approximately 7 to 15 Standard Cubic Feet per Minute (scfm) at about 30 to about 140 psi by using a small blower/compressor and sterilizing filter. 
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the insulated storage tank further comprises at least one manifold positioned at the bottom of the insulated storage tank, wherein the manifold comprises a multiplicity of vents or openings for passage of oxygen or air containing oxygen into the insulated storage tank. 
     
     
         4 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the insulated storage tank further comprises at least one positive check valve position on an opening of the insulated storage tank for release of increased pressure within the insulated storage tank. 
     
     
         5 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the insulated storage tank is devoid of access to visible light or electromagnetic radiation have frequencies of light thereby reducing or eliminating photosynthesis. 
     
     
         6 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the insulated storage tank optionally comprises a temperature control system to maintain temperature within the insulated storage tank from about 40 to about 50° F. 
     
     
         7 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the insulated storage tank further comprises baffles to control movement of the liquid within the insulated storage tank during transport. 
     
     
         8 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein a positive pressure is maintained within the insulated storage tank to inhibit unwanted debris or bodies from entering into the insulated storage tank through the venting system. 
     
     
         10 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the positive pressure within the insulated storage tank is maintained at a pressure above pressure on the outside of the tank, whether moving or in a stationary position. 
     
     
         11 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the insulated storage tank is sized to maintain a density of live algae in an amount ranging from about 0.5 to 10 g per liter of water to maintain a concentrated form of the live algae. 
     
     
         12 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the aqueous liquid in the insulated storage tank is water and including a buffering agent to maintain a neutral pH to address increased amounts of CO 2 .