Application of algae in wastewater treatment

Abstract

Nowadays, water contamination has become one of the most significant environmental issues.  The creation and use of algal biotechnology with less investment, good effect and low operating cost has garnered a lot of attention. With the ongoing development of numerous new water treatment technologies, low-cost and effective ecological governance systems have been created quickly. Its purpose is to improve the sewage purification process by improving the inorganic process of organic matter, accelerating the expansion and multiplication of microorganisms, enhancing the metabolic function of microorganisms, and promoting the proliferation of microorganisms. In this article, the removal of nitrogen, phosphorus, heavy metals, antibiotics, pathogens and pesticides by algae was introduced. Additionally, typical algae systems including immobilized algae systems, algal-bacterial symbiotic systems and combination high-rate algae pond systems used in sewage treatment and the limitations and prospects of algae technology were discussed. Algal wastewater treatment is more effective in removing nitrogen and phosphorus than conventional activated sludge processes. Aquaculture wastewater, industrial drainage, municipal sewage, and other distinct forms of water treatment processes can all benefit from the simultaneous transformation and removal of nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, refractory organic matter, and heavy metals in sewage that is made possible by algae technology. Engineering techniques and technological advancement will be used to create high-efficiency microalgae wastewater treatment reactors, optimize conditions, increase the utilization efficiency of microalgae biological resources, and apply microalgae to wastewater treatment, which will have a significant impact on water quality and economy.