It is possible to create a hybrid system that combines both open algae ponds and closed algae growing systems. In fact, this is one way to design a bioreactor system. With this type of system, the open pond is used to grow algae as rapidly as possible using available sunlight. Then, the algae can be transferred inside to the reactor proper, which is a closed system that is used to generate electricity.
In this way, you can create a bioreactor system that that produces much greater yields than bioreactors that use only closed systems. That’s because there is always a ready supply of mature algae available to culture the reactor. One problem to look for, however, is that the risk of contamination is much higher since environmental contaminants and even undesirable algae species can make their way into the system via the open algae ponds.
