Technological mapping of led lighting for microalgae: a survey of patent deposits

• Published in: OBSERVATÓRIO DE LA ECONOMÍA LATINOAMERICANA Vol. 21; no. 12; pp. 26724 - 26743
• Main Authors: Leal, Gabrielle Coelho, Teixeira, Cláudia Maria Luz Lapa, Do Carmo, Flávia Lima, Chaloub, Ricardo Moreira
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 22.12.2023
• ISSN: 1696-8352; 1696-8352
• DOI: 10.55905/oelv21n12-175

Microalgae are a significant focus in bioprocess research due to their capacity to capture atmospheric CO2 and produce valuable secondary metabolites. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) have gained prominence as a light source for microalgae, offering advantages over traditional lighting due to their narrowband spectrum, along with many advantages in comparison to traditional light sources. This study examines 578 patent families related to microalgae processes with LED illumination, assessing light spectrum, microalgae species, and bioproduct yield, as well as their connection to current scientific literature. The patent analysis was conducted using Orbit Intelligence® software, and scientific research was validated using the Elsevier Scopus® database, meeting specified search criteria. Both technological and scientific advancements have occurred over the past decade. Over the last two decades, the majority of patent activity has been centered in Asia, with China leading with 333 patent filings, followed by South Korea (96) and the USA (45). However, the scientific publication landscape tells a different story, with the USA leading in publications (1693), followed by China (771), and Germany (713). Most patents relate to microalgae cultivation systems. The primary microalgae species featured in the patents include Chlorella, Arthrospira (Spirulina), and Haematococcus, with biodiesel being the most prominent bioproduct. Regarding LED light quality, the patents predominantly utilize a combination of red and blue lights in various ratios. In summary, the adoption of LED lighting in microalgae production has grown significantly in both the industrial and scientific sectors. Tailoring light emissions in microalgae cultivation proves to be a smart and cost-effective method for enhancing efficiency, and this trend is expected to continue expanding in the future.