Esp
mmorales@cua.uam.mx
Research Projects in Environmental Bioprocesses
The laboratory is part of the Academic Group Biosystems in Environment and Energy, which promotes the development of innovative solutions to address current environmental challenges through bioprocesses, particularly those based on microalgae. With an interdisciplinary and collaborative approach, its projects tackle key issues such as climate change, the circular economy, water management, and sustainable energy transition.
Divisional Project: Environmental Bioprocesses (75 S114-15)
This project focuses on developing clean technologies based on microalgae cultivation to capture carbon dioxide and produce value-added compounds. Using advanced methodologies, the goal is to transform biomass into pigments, lipids, carbohydrates, and other products with applications in bioenergy, sustainable agriculture, and biopolymer production. These research lines contribute to climate change mitigation and promote production models based on circular economy principles.
TECMIDESUS Project – Microalgae-Based Technologies for Sustainable Development
Inter-Institutional Collaboration Projects IPN-UAM INNOVA METRO-POLITEC
Technical Lead (UAM): Dr. Marcia Morales Ibarría
Sponsors: SECTEI-UAM
Duration: 2024–2026
This project aims to apply microalgae-based biotechnology in three priority areas: peri-urban horticulture, efficient water management, and climate change mitigation. By implementing sustainable production systems, it seeks to increase natural resource efficiency and reduce negative environmental impacts.
Conducted jointly with the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) under the INNOVA METRO-POLITEC program, this project strengthens synergies among public higher education institutions to generate viable solutions to contemporary environmental and urban challenges.
Project: Transition of Wastewater Treatment Plants Toward Circular Economy and Sustainability Through the Use of Microalgae
Current Challenges – Research Support Office (DAI - UAM)
Technical Lead: Dr. Marcia Morales Ibarría
Duration: 2024–2026
This project proposes transforming wastewater treatment plants through the use of microalgae, integrating circular economy principles to optimize processes, reduce emissions, and recover nutrients from water. In addition to treating wastewater, the project evaluates using the resulting biomass as biofertilizers or biostimulants, opening new avenues for agricultural use and reinforcing the foundations of more sustainable farming.
Project: Mexican Innovation Center in Bioenergy – Gaseous Biofuels Cluster
CONACyT-SENER Sectoral Fund – Energy Sustainability (Project 247006)
Strategic Line Lead: CO₂ Capture and Gas Stream Conditioning
Institutional Lead: UAM-Cuajimalpa
Duration: 2016–2021
As part of the Mexican Innovation Center in Bioenergy, this project focused on developing technologies for CO₂ capture and conditioning gas streams using microalgae-based systems. Its goal was to promote the generation of low-impact gaseous biofuels as part of a sustainable energy transition in Mexico.
The participation of the Cuajimalpa Campus of UAM in this cluster strengthened its leadership in applied bioenergy research, enhancing its scientific and technological capacity to contribute to a cleaner and more resilient energy model.
The Pilot Plant features infrastructure specifically designed for the study and development of bioprocesses based on microalgae and other biological systems. Among its specialized equipment are various types of photobioreactors, high-precision analytical instrumentation, and sample preparation and characterization equipment.
For the cultivation and analysis of microalgae, the laboratory has a mini photobioreactor with a 4 mL volume featuring an adjustable white light panel that enables photosynthetic activity assays under different temperatures and light intensities. Additionally, a system of four flat-panel photobioreactors outfitted with pH and dissolved oxygen sensors, temperature control, and LED panels to adjust light intensity. A set of four bubble column photobioreactors is also available, housed in a temperature-controlled chamber capable of preparing CO₂ mixtures, facilitating the study of microalgae growth and metabolism under specific conditions. Complementing these systems, the lab also features a Biostat A plus fermenter, essential for bioprocess production and optimization.
For the safe handling of samples and reagents, the lab includes a laminar flow hood (0171150) and a fume hood, ensuring a controlled environment for working with biological and chemical materials. In addition, the lab is equipped with a high-precision analytical balance and a system of three flat-panel photobioreactors (011764, 0117610, 33525), which are key for experimentation at larger cultivation scales.
The storage and preservation area includes refrigerators and a freezer for maintaining samples and reagents. The lab also has a photoregulation chamber, which allows specific lighting conditions to be maintained for photosynthesis experiments, along with shakers and incubators, essential for controlled microbial cultivation and growth.
Regarding analytical instrumentation, the lab is equipped with a gas chromatograph (0117964), a spectrophotometer (0166097), and a stereoscope (028890), all crucial for biomass characterization and compound identification. A Nanodrop (0170529) is also available for the accurate quantification of DNA, RNA, and proteins, along with a thermal cycler (0146074) for genetic material amplification through PCR.
For sample processing and analysis, the lab includes a homogenizer (0153228), essential for cell disruption and extraction of intracellular compounds, and a moisture analyzer (0118174) for precise moisture content determination in samples.
This advanced infrastructure supports high-level research in bioprocesses, biotechnology, and sustainability, providing an ideal environment for studying biological systems with applications in CO₂ capture, bioenergy, and the production of value-added compounds.
This laboratory provides comprehensive support to researchers from various academic divisions, including the Division of Natural Sciences and Engineering (DCNI), the Department of Processes and Technology (DPT), and the Graduate Program in Natural Sciences and Engineering (PCNI), among others.
In particular, it focuses on supporting students from the Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Engineering and the PCNI, offering a conducive space for developing capstone projects, social service, graduate theses, and advanced research work. In some cases, support is extended to students from other institutions, fostering inter-institutional collaboration and academic exchange.
Moreover, this laboratory is closely linked to the Academic Group of Biosystems in Environment and Energy, promoting interdisciplinary research and the development of innovative solutions in environmental bioprocesses, renewable energy, and sustainability. This collaborative approach enhances comprehensive learning and contributes to the training of highly skilled talent in strategic areas for sustainable development.
Laboratory Access and Safety Regulations
Operating Hours:
• Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Access outside these hours is only permitted with prior authorization and must be justified by laboratory coordination.
Access and Authorization:
• Entry is strictly limited to authorized personnel, including researchers, students involved in capstone projects, social service, thesis work, and assigned technical staff.
• Visitors and external collaborators must have a temporary permit approved by the laboratory coordination.
Safety Requirements:
• Safety and Equipment Handling Course: A safety and equipment handling course should be completed before starting any activity in the laboratory. This knowledge should also be updated when new procedures, techniques, or equipment are introduced in the lab.
• Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Appropriate personal protective equipment, such as lab coats, gloves, safety goggles, and masks, must be worn according to the activity being performed.
Hygiene and Safety Rules:
• Bringing food, beverages, or electronic devices unrelated to lab activities is strictly prohibited.
• The use of personal devices such as mobile phones, tablets, or laptops that are not essential to research work is not allowed to prevent possible contamination and ensure the security of experimental data.
Compliance with Regulations:
• Failure to comply with these regulations will result in temporary or permanent revocation of laboratory access, depending on the severity of the violation.
Dr. Sergio Revah Bioprocess Pilot Plant
Facility Location
Cuajimalpa Campus
Division of Natural Sciences and Engineering
Ground Floor, L-109
Contact Information
Dr. Marcia Guadalupe Morales Ibarríammorales@cua.uam.mx
Introduction
The Bioprocess Pilot Plant of the Division of Natural Sciences and Engineering conducts advanced research on microalgae cultivation to capture carbon dioxide and obtain various beneficial compounds from the generated biomass. These compounds include pigments, lipids, and carbohydrates for producing biofuels, biopolymers, and plant biostimulants. Additionally, due to their high protein content, microalgae are being explored for their potential as a dietary supplement.
The cultivation of microalgae is carried out in instrumented photobioreactors with different configurations and controlled conditions, covering volumes ranging from a few milliliters to several liters. Biomass characterization is performed using advanced processing techniques, ensuring a detailed analysis of its properties.
Water quality is also evaluated, and the efficiency of the wastewater treatment plant at the Cuajimalpa Campus is monitored, contributing to the development of sustainable solutions for water resource management.
The laboratory is equipped with cutting-edge infrastructure, including laminar flow hoods, photo regulation chambers, infrared gas analyzers, gas chromatographs, filtration equipment, homogenizers, stirring and control systems for gas mixture preparation, and other essential tools for carrying out its activities.
This space brings together researchers, undergraduate students working on capstone projects and social service, and graduate students at the specialization, master’s, and doctoral levels. This interdisciplinary environment fosters learning and innovation, establishing a high-level academic and scientific development space.
Projects and Activities
Research Projects in Environmental Bioprocesses
The laboratory is part of the Academic Group Biosystems in Environment and Energy, which promotes the development of innovative solutions to address current environmental challenges through bioprocesses, particularly those based on microalgae. With an interdisciplinary and collaborative approach, its projects tackle key issues such as climate change, the circular economy, water management, and sustainable energy transition.
Divisional Project: Environmental Bioprocesses (75 S114-15)
This project focuses on developing clean technologies based on microalgae cultivation to capture carbon dioxide and produce value-added compounds. Using advanced methodologies, the goal is to transform biomass into pigments, lipids, carbohydrates, and other products with applications in bioenergy, sustainable agriculture, and biopolymer production. These research lines contribute to climate change mitigation and promote production models based on circular economy principles.
TECMIDESUS Project – Microalgae-Based Technologies for Sustainable Development
Inter-Institutional Collaboration Projects IPN-UAM INNOVA METRO-POLITEC
Technical Lead (UAM): Dr. Marcia Morales Ibarría
Sponsors: SECTEI-UAM
Duration: 2024–2026
This project aims to apply microalgae-based biotechnology in three priority areas: peri-urban horticulture, efficient water management, and climate change mitigation. By implementing sustainable production systems, it seeks to increase natural resource efficiency and reduce negative environmental impacts.
Conducted jointly with the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN) under the INNOVA METRO-POLITEC program, this project strengthens synergies among public higher education institutions to generate viable solutions to contemporary environmental and urban challenges.
Project: Transition of Wastewater Treatment Plants Toward Circular Economy and Sustainability Through the Use of Microalgae
Current Challenges – Research Support Office (DAI - UAM)
Technical Lead: Dr. Marcia Morales Ibarría
Duration: 2024–2026
This project proposes transforming wastewater treatment plants through the use of microalgae, integrating circular economy principles to optimize processes, reduce emissions, and recover nutrients from water. In addition to treating wastewater, the project evaluates using the resulting biomass as biofertilizers or biostimulants, opening new avenues for agricultural use and reinforcing the foundations of more sustainable farming.
Project: Mexican Innovation Center in Bioenergy – Gaseous Biofuels Cluster
CONACyT-SENER Sectoral Fund – Energy Sustainability (Project 247006)
Strategic Line Lead: CO₂ Capture and Gas Stream Conditioning
Institutional Lead: UAM-Cuajimalpa
Duration: 2016–2021
As part of the Mexican Innovation Center in Bioenergy, this project focused on developing technologies for CO₂ capture and conditioning gas streams using microalgae-based systems. Its goal was to promote the generation of low-impact gaseous biofuels as part of a sustainable energy transition in Mexico.
The participation of the Cuajimalpa Campus of UAM in this cluster strengthened its leadership in applied bioenergy research, enhancing its scientific and technological capacity to contribute to a cleaner and more resilient energy model.
Key Equipment
Flat-Plate Photobioreactor System equipped with pH and dissolved oxygen sensors, temperature control, and dimmable LED panels (117610, 117615, 33525, 33526). The laboratory features four flat-panel photobioreactors equipped with pH and dissolved oxygen sensors and temperature controls for precise monitoring.
Each unit includes adjustable LED panels to optimize photosynthesis and cell growth, supporting research in CO₂ capture, bioenergy, and sustainable bioprocesses.
Gas Chromatography System, Agilent Technologies 6890N (117964). The laboratory is equipped with high-precision Gas Chromatography for volatile compounds. Its thermal control and programmable settings optimize separation.
It includes a LAN interface, accurate detection, and support for automatic samplers. The HP-5 column is essential for bioprocess and sustainability studies.
Vertical Laminar Flow Hood (171150). To maintain a sterile environment, the laboratory includes a vertical laminar flow hood of 304 stainless steel with a HEPA filter (99.97%).
It features digital controls, an exhaust fan to regulate airflow, a tempered glass door, two fluorescent lamps, and two 40W UV lamps. Additionally, it includes gas and air valves, a dual 110V outlet, and a modular tubular steel base.
Water Treatment Plant. The wastewater treatment plant operates in multiple stages to ensure effective purification. Pretreatment removes solids and fats through static screens, a grit chamber, and grease traps. During secondary treatment, water flows through 15 RBBR biological reactors and two lamella clarifiers. Tertiary treatment uses deep-bed filters and activated carbon, followed by disinfection with sodium hypochlorite. Sludge is treated via digestion to optimize disposal.
Available Technologies
The Pilot Plant features infrastructure specifically designed for the study and development of bioprocesses based on microalgae and other biological systems. Among its specialized equipment are various types of photobioreactors, high-precision analytical instrumentation, and sample preparation and characterization equipment.
For the cultivation and analysis of microalgae, the laboratory has a mini photobioreactor with a 4 mL volume featuring an adjustable white light panel that enables photosynthetic activity assays under different temperatures and light intensities. Additionally, a system of four flat-panel photobioreactors outfitted with pH and dissolved oxygen sensors, temperature control, and LED panels to adjust light intensity. A set of four bubble column photobioreactors is also available, housed in a temperature-controlled chamber capable of preparing CO₂ mixtures, facilitating the study of microalgae growth and metabolism under specific conditions. Complementing these systems, the lab also features a Biostat A plus fermenter, essential for bioprocess production and optimization.
For the safe handling of samples and reagents, the lab includes a laminar flow hood (0171150) and a fume hood, ensuring a controlled environment for working with biological and chemical materials. In addition, the lab is equipped with a high-precision analytical balance and a system of three flat-panel photobioreactors (011764, 0117610, 33525), which are key for experimentation at larger cultivation scales.
The storage and preservation area includes refrigerators and a freezer for maintaining samples and reagents. The lab also has a photoregulation chamber, which allows specific lighting conditions to be maintained for photosynthesis experiments, along with shakers and incubators, essential for controlled microbial cultivation and growth.
Regarding analytical instrumentation, the lab is equipped with a gas chromatograph (0117964), a spectrophotometer (0166097), and a stereoscope (028890), all crucial for biomass characterization and compound identification. A Nanodrop (0170529) is also available for the accurate quantification of DNA, RNA, and proteins, along with a thermal cycler (0146074) for genetic material amplification through PCR.
For sample processing and analysis, the lab includes a homogenizer (0153228), essential for cell disruption and extraction of intracellular compounds, and a moisture analyzer (0118174) for precise moisture content determination in samples.
This advanced infrastructure supports high-level research in bioprocesses, biotechnology, and sustainability, providing an ideal environment for studying biological systems with applications in CO₂ capture, bioenergy, and the production of value-added compounds.
Primary User Groups
This laboratory provides comprehensive support to researchers from various academic divisions, including the Division of Natural Sciences and Engineering (DCNI), the Department of Processes and Technology (DPT), and the Graduate Program in Natural Sciences and Engineering (PCNI), among others.
In particular, it focuses on supporting students from the Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Engineering and the PCNI, offering a conducive space for developing capstone projects, social service, graduate theses, and advanced research work. In some cases, support is extended to students from other institutions, fostering inter-institutional collaboration and academic exchange.
Moreover, this laboratory is closely linked to the Academic Group of Biosystems in Environment and Energy, promoting interdisciplinary research and the development of innovative solutions in environmental bioprocesses, renewable energy, and sustainability. This collaborative approach enhances comprehensive learning and contributes to the training of highly skilled talent in strategic areas for sustainable development.
Access Policies and Guidelines
Laboratory Access and Safety Regulations
Operating Hours:
• Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Access outside these hours is only permitted with prior authorization and must be justified by laboratory coordination.
Access and Authorization:
• Entry is strictly limited to authorized personnel, including researchers, students involved in capstone projects, social service, thesis work, and assigned technical staff.
• Visitors and external collaborators must have a temporary permit approved by the laboratory coordination.
Safety Requirements:
• Safety and Equipment Handling Course: A safety and equipment handling course should be completed before starting any activity in the laboratory. This knowledge should also be updated when new procedures, techniques, or equipment are introduced in the lab.
• Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Appropriate personal protective equipment, such as lab coats, gloves, safety goggles, and masks, must be worn according to the activity being performed.
Hygiene and Safety Rules:
• Bringing food, beverages, or electronic devices unrelated to lab activities is strictly prohibited.
• The use of personal devices such as mobile phones, tablets, or laptops that are not essential to research work is not allowed to prevent possible contamination and ensure the security of experimental data.
Compliance with Regulations:
• Failure to comply with these regulations will result in temporary or permanent revocation of laboratory access, depending on the severity of the violation.
Information Provided by the Division of Natural Sciences and Engineering