MICROALGAE FOR THE TERTIARY TREATMENT OF URBAN EFFLUENTS INA PILOT-SCALE SYSTEM
Master Thesis Brief Description
The thesis focused on a pioneering pilot trial of GreenDune Photobioreactors (GDPBRs) in urban wastewater tertiary treatment, using naturally occurring microalgae. The study explored different seasonal conditions, specifically autumn and winter, to assess nutrient removal efficiencies and operational conditions of the GDPBR system. Microalgae strains, including Desmodesmus abundans GTM11, Scenedesmus sp. GTM2, Chlorella sp. GTM4, and Chlorella sp. GTM 5, were identified as part of the microalgal consortium. The pilot proved efficient in removing N-NH4, with nitrates staying within legal limits. Despite challenges related to high total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) concentrations, the system met Portuguese legislation requirements. The microalgal biomass demonstrated high protein and carbohydrate content, making it suitable for biogas, biomethane, or bioethanol production. The study highlights the potential of the GreenDune-PBR system, which operates efficiently in a small space, reducing its environmental footprint while maintaining economic viability.
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