An Integration of Phycoremediation Processes in Wastewater Treatment

Microalgae have the potential to treat wastewater containing recalcitrant compounds, and the treated microalgae can be used for obtaining added-value products. The technoeconomical aspects and design and development of photobioreactors are also discussed.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 584 pages
Publication date: 09 September 2021
Publisher: Elsevier Science Publishing Co Inc

Here is the rephrased text:

An Integration of Phycoremediation Processes in Wastewater Treatment delves into the remarkable potential of microalgae to effectively treat wastewater containing highly recalcitrant compounds that conventional treatments struggle to degrade. Moreover, the book explores the innovative utilization of the harvested microalgae after wastewater treatment, presenting opportunities for the extraction of valuable added-value products. By closing this loop and contributing to a circular economy, microalgae emerge as a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for wastewater management. Furthermore, the text addresses the technoeconomic considerations of this green technology, encompassing the design and development of photobioreactors, genetic aspects, metagenomics, and metabolomics. This comprehensive exploration sheds light on the promising future of phycoremediation in wastewater treatment, offering a sustainable and cost-effective approach to address the challenges of industrial waste disposal.

Introduction:
Wastewater treatment is a critical process in modern society, as it plays a vital role in preserving water resources and ensuring the safety of human health and the environment. However, conventional treatment methods often struggle to effectively remove recalcitrant compounds, such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and industrial pollutants, from wastewater. These compounds are known to pose significant challenges to wastewater treatment systems, as they are resistant to conventional biological and chemical treatments.

Potential of Phycoremediation Processes in Wastewater Treatment:
In recent years, phycoremediation processes have gained increasing attention as a promising solution to address the challenges of recalcitrant compound removal from wastewater. Phycoremediation involves the use of microalgae, which are photosynthetic organisms capable of degrading a wide range of organic compounds. Microalgae have several advantages over conventional treatment methods, including their high biomass production, rapid growth rates, and ability to adapt to a wide range of environmental conditions.

Use of Microalgae in Wastewater Treatment:
Microalgae can be used in various stages of wastewater treatment, including pretreatment, primary treatment, and secondary treatment. In pretreatment, microalgae can be used to remove organic pollutants from wastewater, such as oils, fats, and carbohydrates, which can enhance the efficiency of subsequent treatment processes. In primary treatment, microalgae can be used to remove nutrients from wastewater, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which can reduce the load on downstream treatment systems. In secondary treatment, microalgae can be used to remove recalcitrant compounds, such as pharmaceuticals and personal care products, from wastewater.

Value-Added Products from Microalgae:
One of the key advantages of phycoremediation is the ability to extract valuable added-value products from the harvested microalgae. These products can include biofuels, biochemicals, and pigments, which have a wide range of applications in various industries, such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. The extraction of these products can help to close the loop of waste management, as it reduces the need for additional waste disposal and promotes the development of a circular economy.

Technoeconomic Aspects of Phycoremediation:
The technoeconomic aspects of phycoremediation are also important to consider. The cost of implementing phycoremediation processes can vary depending on the specific treatment requirements, the type of microalgae used, and the scale of the treatment system. However, studies have shown that phycoremediation can be cost-effective compared to conventional treatment methods, particularly when considering the long-term benefits of reduced waste disposal and the potential for revenue generation through the extraction of added-value products.

Design and Development of Photobioreactors:
Photobioreactors are critical components of phycoremediation systems, as they provide a controlled environment for the growth of microalgae. Photobioreactors can be designed to optimize the growth of microalgae, maximizing their biomass production and degradation of recalcitrant compounds. The development of new photobioreactor designs and materials is ongoing, as researchers seek to improve the efficiency and scalability of phycoremediation systems.

Genetic Aspects of Phycoremediation:
Genetic engineering is an important tool in the development of phycoremediation processes. By modifying the genetic makeup of microalgae, researchers can enhance their ability to degrade recalcitrant compounds and improve their biomass production. Genetic engineering can also be used to develop new strains of microalgae that are more resistant to environmental stressors, such as temperature and pH.

Metagenomics and Metabolomics:
Metagenomics and metabolomics are important tools in the study of microalgae and their interactions with recalcitrant compounds. These tools allow researchers to identify the genetic and metabolic pathways involved in the degradation of recalcitrant compounds and to identify potential biomarkers for monitoring and optimizing phycoremediation processes.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, phycoremediation processes have the potential to revolutionize the treatment of wastewater containing recalcitrant compounds. By using microalgae to degrade these compounds, we can achieve a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to wastewater management. The extraction of valuable added-value products from harvested microalgae can help to close the loop of waste management and promote the development of a circular economy. The technoeconomic aspects of phycoremediation are also important to consider, as it can be cost-effective compared to conventional treatment methods. The design and development of photobioreactors, genetic engineering, metagenomics, and metabolomics are ongoing areas of research, which will further enhance the efficiency and scalability of phycoremediation systems. As we continue to face the challenges of industrial waste disposal, phycoremediation offers a promising solution for a more sustainable and resilient future.

Weight: 450g
Dimension: 235 x 191 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780128234990