New methods for removing algae from drinking water
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How to remove algae from drinking water? Since traditional methods, such as coagulation and sedimentation, are usually ineffective, Prof. Dr. Matevž Dular from the Laboratory for Water and Turbine Machines (LVTS) at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, together with colleagues from Yangzhou University, sought a solution in the use of ultrasound and advanced carbon-based materials.
Traditional methods for removing algae from drinking water treatment are usually ineffective due to the negative charge on the surface of the cells which prevents formation of flocks. Previous research shows that the effectiveness of the coagulation method can be improved by using ultrasonic cavitation, which penetrates extracellular polymer structures and opens the way to cell destruction through chemical effects (oxidation). However, the short life span and limited distance of action of free radicals, which are formed during cavitation, together with high energy consumption remain problematic.
In the study, in addition to ultrasonic cavitation, the researchers used advanced carbon-based materials (nanodiamonds) doped with nitrogen. Using low-power ultrasound combined with a 5-minute treatment with positively charged nitrogen-doped nanodiamonds, higher than 90% removal of Microcystis aeruginosa cells in water was achieved.
The new method effectively improves water quality without the use of additional chemicals and opens up possibilities for its use in controlling cyanobacterial blooms.
