Initial pH Effect on Algae Production under Batch Conditions

Abstract

Mixed Algae culture was used to study the initial pH effect on growth in synthetic wastewater. Samples with 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11 of initial pH were incubated during 11 day of time. pH levels of all samples except that 3 of initial pH were maintained constantly about 8.0 during incubation time after about 2. day. at 3 of initial pH level, CO₂ assimilation of algae culture inhibited possibly from H⁺ ion toxicity. The present study has shown that initial pH effect on algae production and N, and P removal from wastewater must be considered particularly at about 3 of initial pH which is possibly toxic to algae metabolisms. When the incubation time progresses, other initial pH values can be compensated gradually to about 8 under these batch conditions.