Building a low-cost DIY bioreactor system for sustainable microbial cultivation

Methods

Summary

Our project aims to develop a DIY low-cost bioreactor system for sustainable microbial cultivation. Through the use of easily accessible materials and innovative minimalistic design, we will create an airlift bioreactor bioreactor capable of supporting the growth of various microorganisms, such as fungi, bacteria, and algae. We will employ techniques such as CNC machining, 3D printing, open-source sensor implementation, in vitro microbial propagation, nutrient optimization, and fine-tuning of environmental conditions to ensure successful cultivation. By sharing detailed instructions, images, and videos, we will provide a comprehensive guide for others to replicate and benefit from our project.

Challenges

While we are confident in the potential of our project, there are a few challenges we anticipate. First, achieving optimal growth conditions for different microorganisms may require fine-tuning and experimentation. Second, ensuring sterility throughout the inoculation and cultivation process is crucial but poses a risk of contamination. To overcome these challenges, we will conduct rigorous testing and optimization, closely monitor the cultivation process, and implement strict sterilization protocols. Additionally, we will collaborate with experts in the field to seek guidance and advice to mitigate potential risks.

Pre Analysis Plan

Our pre-analysis plan includes several components to effectively analyze our project data and outcomes. First, we will establish a clear hypothesis for each microbial strain we cultivate, specifying the expected growth patterns and biomass yield based in existing literature. To assess the influence of variables, such as bioreactor design, nutrient composition, pH and temperature, we will employ statistical models, analyzing the impact on growth rates and biomass productivity. Additionally, we will account for potential variations in gathered data by conducting multiple replicates for each experiment. By carefully documenting our methodology and results, we aim to provide transparent and reproducible research findings.