EcoTech ET-PSI Large-Scale Algal Cultivation and Online Monitoring System
| Brand | EcoTech |
|---|---|
| Origin | Beijing, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | ET-PSI |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The EcoTech ET-PSI Large-Scale Algal Cultivation and Online Monitoring System is a modular, research-grade platform engineered for controlled photobioreactor-based cultivation and real-time physiological phenotyping of microalgae and cyanobacteria under environmentally regulated conditions. Built upon the Couette-type laminar flow principle and integrated PAM (Pulse-Amplitude-Modulated) fluorometry, the system enables non-invasive, continuous assessment of photosynthetic efficiency—including effective quantum yield (ΦPSII), non-photochemical quenching (NPQ), and electron transport rate (ETR)—alongside precise regulation of light intensity (0–2,000 µmol photons·m⁻²·s⁻¹ PAR), temperature (15–35 °C), pH (4.0–10.0), dissolved oxygen (0–20 mg·L⁻¹), and CO₂ concentration (0–5% v/v). Its scalable architecture supports volumes from 5 L to 200 L, making it suitable for both laboratory-scale process optimization and pre-pilot bioprocess development aligned with OECD TG 201 and ISO 14852 standards for algal growth testing.
Key Features
- Modular photobioreactor design with borosilicate glass or FDA-compliant silicone tubing vessels, enabling sterile operation and optical clarity for in-line spectroscopic monitoring
- Integrated dual-wavelength (450 nm & 620 nm) LED array with programmable spectral profiles, supporting white, red-blue, or custom light recipes per experimental protocol
- Real-time multiparameter sensing: optical density (OD750), chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics, pH, DO, temperature, and turbidity—all sampled at ≤10 s intervals with ±0.02 pH / ±0.1 °C / ±0.1 mg·L⁻¹ DO accuracy
- Automated nutrient dosing module with peristaltic pumps (0.01–5 mL·min⁻¹ range) and conductivity-based feedback control for N/P/K replenishment
- Robust mechanical architecture featuring magnetic coupling drive, stainless-steel frame (AISI 316), and IP54-rated electronics enclosure for long-term operational stability
- Compliance-ready data logging with timestamped, encrypted binary files (.etlog) and optional audit trail functionality meeting GLP/GMP documentation requirements
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ET-PSI system accommodates a broad spectrum of photoautotrophic organisms—including Chlorella vulgaris, Dunaliella salina, Spirulina platensis, and genetically modified strains—across batch, fed-batch, and chemostat cultivation modes. Vessel geometry and mixing dynamics are optimized to minimize shear stress (<5 Pa) and photoinhibition while maintaining uniform light distribution (CV <8% across culture volume). The system conforms to ISO 14040/14044 for life cycle assessment studies and supports test protocols referenced in ASTM D8291 (algal biofuel productivity), USP (cell culture monitoring), and OECD Guideline 201 (freshwater algal growth inhibition tests). All wetted materials comply with USP Class VI and EU 10/2011 food-contact regulations.
Software & Data Management
EcoTech’s proprietary AlgaTrack™ v4.2 software provides unified control, visualization, and analysis via a Windows-based GUI. It supports multi-system synchronization, event-triggered sampling (e.g., light shift, nutrient pulse), and automated report generation in PDF/CSV/XLSX formats compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (electronic signatures, user access levels, and change history). Raw fluorescence decay curves, kinetic traces, and growth rate derivatives (µ, λ, lag phase duration) are exportable for MATLAB®, R, or Python-based modeling. Optional integration with LabArchives ELN or Thermo Fisher SampleManager enables traceable metadata linking across institutional digital lab infrastructure.
Applications
- Photosynthetic performance screening under abiotic stress (salinity, UV-B, heavy metals, nutrient limitation)
- Strain selection and bioprospecting for high-value metabolites (astaxanthin, β-carotene, EPA/DHA)
- Bioremediation efficacy assessment using wastewater-derived nutrients or flue gas CO₂ supplementation
- Dynamic modeling of carbon fixation kinetics and light-use efficiency (LUE) parameters
- Training and method validation in academic teaching labs adhering to AP Biology and IB Environmental Systems curricula
- Regulatory ecotoxicity testing for chemical registration under REACH and EPA OPPTS 850.4500 guidelines
FAQ
What distinguishes the ET-PSI from benchtop systems like the FMT150 or MC1000?
The ET-PSI is engineered for scalability and process-relevant physiology, offering larger working volumes, industrial-grade sensors, and advanced automation—making it suitable for translational research bridging lab discovery to pilot-scale implementation.
Can the system be validated for GxP environments?
Yes. With IQ/OQ documentation packages, 21 CFR Part 11-compliant software modules, and full calibration traceability to NIST standards, the ET-PSI supports qualification in GLP, GMP, and ISO 17025-accredited laboratories.
Is third-party sensor integration supported?
The system features open RS-485 and Modbus TCP interfaces, enabling seamless connection of external HPLC autosamplers, FTIR probes, or dissolved nitrate analyzers without firmware modification.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
Optical windows require cleaning every 72 h during continuous operation; LED arrays are rated for 20,000 h (L70); and all fluidic paths undergo quarterly sterilization validation per ISO 13408-1.
