Sterilizing equipment for algae farming prevents contamination from unwanted microorganisms that can outcompete or harm the algae culture. Common methods include rinsing tanks, tubing, and harvesting tools with diluted bleach or hydrogen peroxide, followed by thorough rinsing with clean water to remove any chemical residues.
For smaller equipment, boiling or autoclaving can be used to ensure complete sterilization. Surfaces exposed to air, such as workbenches and containers, can be wiped down with alcohol solutions. In systems with continuous water flow, ultraviolet light or ozone treatment may be applied to sterilize water before it enters the cultivation area.
