Magnetic fields exhibit a positive impact on lipid and biomass yield during phototrophic cultivation of Spirulina sp.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of magnetic field (MF) application (1, 12 and 24 h day) to Spirulina sp. LEB 18 in different photosynthesis cycles (dark and/or light) during short (15 days) and long periods (50 days) of cultivation. MF application was performed via two sources: ferrite magnets and solenoids.

Magnetic treatment of microalgae for enhanced product formation.

Static or modulated magnetic fields (MF) may interact with the biological system and affect the metabolism of microorganisms, such as their photosynthetic capacity or synthesis of carbohydrates. Their effects on microorganisms, which can be classified into inhibiting, stimulating and null, may be interpreted as the result of stress that cells undergo, thus, leading to responses through the same mechanisms. Biological effects of exposure to magnetic forces depend on magnetic intensity, frequency and exposure time.