Page 12
Copyright Wet Paper Publications 2010
P
ROJECT
1.4 M
AKING
A
LIGHT
CUPBOARD
Background
Micro algae are plants. They require light, water and carbon
dioxide (CO
2
) to carry out photosynthesis and growth.
The best conditions for growth vary slightly between species.
Tropical species for example like a slightly higher temperature
than those found in cooler waters.
A ‘light cupboard’ is the easiest way to monitor and control the
conditions while the algae grow.
It has the advantage that you can control the type of light, the
amount of light, the temperature, the air supply and any vermin
that may take a liking to your cultures.
The most simple and in expensive cabinets are made from
existing cupboards - laboratory cupboards are fine.
• Daylight fluorescent tubes areused to supply thewavelengths
that the algae need.
• They are much cheaper than ‘grow’ tubes and do the job
well. A timer is needed on the lights.
• These micro algae like a photoperiod of 12:12 ie 12 hours
light: 12 hours dark if grown in small containers up to about
three litres.
• For bigger containers the light period is extended to 16 hours
so the photoperiod is 16:8.
• Temperature should be kept in the range of 20 -24
o
C.
Materials
• Cupboard approximately 1700 mm X 450 mm X 750 mm
• Carpenters tools
• High gloss white paint
• 13mm poly garden irrigation tube plus fittings
• Two fluoro tubes
• One powerboard and 240 volt timer
Procedure
See Figures 12.1 - 12.3.
Step 1 Replace any particle board with ply as particle board
will fall to pieces if it gets wet.
Step 3 Fit one central shelf.
Step 3 Paint the interior with high gloss white paint.
Step 4 Fit two daylight fluoro tubes - one to supply light to the
top shelf and the other to supply the bottom shelf.
Step 5 Cut a series of 50 mm holes for ventilation and cover
with flyscreen.
Step 6 Replace the doors with a clear front screen if it is to be
a feature.
Step 7 Run the main air supply lines under the cupboard top
and shelf at the front (out of sight).
- Take it through one end with an elbow at the
bottom and a T at the top to go to the main air line.
Figure 12.1 Base of cupboard
Figure 12.2 Cupboard approximately 1700 mm X 450 mm X 750
mm
Figure 12.3 113mm poly garden irrigation tube plus fittings and
cupboard with lights
Mick O'Connor
Mick O'Connor
Mick O'Connor