Standardizing ID-Labels for seaweed samples used for chemical composition analyses and refinery processes in Nordic and European research projects

Introduction

Seaweed samples can be divided into two groups:

Small samples (½-3 kg wet weight (ww)) often used for chemical content analyses including seasonal variation and testing different cultivation conditions or preliminary lab scale experiments on storage, extraction, separation, fermentation, etc.

Larger samples (>3 kg ww) for lab- or pilot scale experiments on storage, extraction, separation, fermentation, etc.

Seaweed samples will always have the following information-tracks:

Sample Code: A ID containing the most important information and the sample code will follow the sampled biomass from harvest to final research results.

Seaweed Processing Code: The sample code will be extended with 8 digits and 1 letter if processing of biomass occurs.

Batch Number: A code describing details about the harvest and origin of the seaweed.

Sample Overview:  An Excel file describing all details about the sample: first sample code, then species, grinding, freezing/drying specifications, seeding and harvesting information, planed aim of the sample (e.g. polysaccharides), place stored, seaweed processing details, analyse results, etc. Maintained by the sample provider.