Microalgae Biofilm Reactor

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a self-contained reactor system for wastewater treatment using stationary microalgae biofilms. Wastewater flows over multiple inclined cultivation surfaces stacked within an enclosed container, where biofilms of microalgae remove pollutants through biological processes (phytoremediation). The system is modular, can be housed in standard shipping containers, and is equipped with controlled lighting, airflow, and, optionally, CO₂ supply and renewable energy options for autonomous operation.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Treatment of municipal, agricultural, or industrial wastewater to remove nutrients and contaminants.
• Installation at remote or temporary locations for on-site wastewater remediation (e.g., disaster relief, mining, rural communities).
• Integration into aquaculture systems for water treatment and biomass production.
• Reduction of nitrogen, phosphorus, and other pollutants in wastewater to comply with environmental regulations.
• Production of microalgal biomass for use as biofertilizer, biogas substrate, or soil conditioner.
• Utilization in closed-loop or near-zero emission water processing plants.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Improved efficiency in wastewater treatment via phytoremediation with minimal chemical inputs.
• Modular and transportable design (e.g., ISO container-based), enabling flexible deployment and easy relocation.
• Scalable system with stacked cultivation surfaces, enabling high productivity on a small footprint.
• Closed, controlled environment reduces odor, evaporation, emissions, and risks of environmental contamination.
• Potential for energy self-sufficiency with optional solar panels and smart monitoring systems.
• Enables negative emissions through CO₂ fixation, contributing to carbon sequestration goals.
• Lower operational and harvesting costs compared to suspended algae systems due to simple biomass recovery.

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Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for wastewater treatment, in which the wastewater flows through cultivation areas, wherein the cultivation areas each have an inclination with respect to the horizontal between 0.5° and 7.5°, and the treatment takes place in a housing, as well as corresponding methods for wastewater treatment and uses.