Effects of static magnetic field on Chlorella vulgaris : growth and extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) production

In this study, Chlorella vulgaris treated with static magnetic field (SMF) was investigated in terms of the algal density, biomass, extracellular polysaccharide content and distribution, percentage of algal aggregation, total protein content, enzyme activity, malondialdehyde content, and nutrient removal. The algal density and biomass under 800 G SMF were highest on the 16th day and were 29.02% and 35.67% greater than the control group (0 G group), respectively. Soluble EPS decreased with an increase in magnetic field strength, while bound EPS exhibited an opposite trend. Algal aggregation occurred in all treatment groups, with the aggregation percentage in the high magnetic field-treated groups being lower than that in the control group. Total protein content of the 800 G group was the lowest at 1.13 μg (106 cells)-1 and the enzyme activity of treated algae was higher than that of the control group. SMF affected the growth and reproduction of C. vulgaris by affecting the antioxidant response.