Biofilm production system for microalgae using domestic wastewater
Innovative biofilm system utilizing cyanobacteria to transform domestic wastewater into a nutrient source for microalgae, producing biomass for bio-inspired chemicals. The system offers low-cost harvesting and scalability, aiming for enhanced wastewater treatment and resource recovery.
Overview
The biofilm production system leverages cyanobacteria to convert domestic wastewater into a nutrient-rich environment for microalgae growth. This approach not only enhances the treatment of wastewater by removing nutrients, microplastics, and metals but also produces a cost-effective biomass for bio-inspired chemicals. Utilizing the fast-growing Tolypothrix cyanobacteria, the system forms stable biofilms that simplify the harvesting process by eliminating the need for significant dewatering.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes cosmopolitan cyanobacteria Tolypothrix for rapid biofilm growth
- Biofilm system designed to integrate with existing wastewater treatment plants
- Low capital and operational expenses due to simplified harvesting and scalable design
- Prototype capable of expanding in both X and Y dimensions for increased productivity
- Light exposure managed through a research greenhouse environment with automated sensor monitoring
- Manual and developing automated systems for biomass quantification
Technology readiness level
This biofilm production system is at Technology Readiness Level 4, having been validated at the bench scale. Plans are in place to scale the system at a local wastewater treatment facility over the next 1.5 years, seeking further data on scalability and integration.
About Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences
Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is an independent, nonprofit ocean research institute on a coastal campus in East Boothbay, Maine. Corporate partners engage through sponsored research and streamlined access to specialized cores offering sequencing, single-cell analyses, imaging, and bioinformatics, as well as a curated marine culture collection. Ocean-access laboratories, seawater systems, and field logistics in the Gulf of Maine provide realistic testbeds for prototype sensors, cultivation workflows, and environmental assays. Work is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as the NSF, NOAA, and NASA. A dedicated partnership and technology transfer function facilitates IP management, licensing, and data- or sample-based service agreements.
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