Developing a novel biological water treatment system for sulphate and TDS reduction using bacterial consortia.
Objectives Isolate and genetically engineer bacteria that are capable of selective sulphate and TDS reduction by scavenging bacteria from an elevated sulphate-contaminated environment Design and develop a biological treatment system using engineered bacterial consortia. Optimisation of treatment system to reduce sulphate levels to below internationally permissible maximum contamination limits of less than 250 mg/L and achieve greater than the known 50% TDS reduction tag for bacterial consortia. Evaluate system performance, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability and engineered risk assessment. 2.0 Methodology 2.1 Process Design The proposed system includes: Bacteria isolation: Laboratory selective culturing and isolation of bacteria (by scavenging) from sulphate contaminated environmental sites. Identification and genetic engineering: Characterisation and genetic engineering of isolated bacteria to improve their selectivity for sulphate and TDS. Anaerobic Bioreactor: This will host sulphate-reducing bacteria that convert sulphate to sulphide using electron donors (e.g., ethanol, lactate). Where feasible, ethanol and lactate will be sourced from on-site by-products such as fermentation residues or waste streams, facilitating resource circularity. Oxidation Reactor: This unit will convert sulphide to elemental sulphur through controlled aeration. Clarifier: This component will enhance the process by facilitating the settling of biomass and precipitates. Sludge Management: A comprehensive operational protocol would be provided for periodic removal and recycling of biomass. Risk Assessment: An environmental and human health impact assessment would be conducted. 2.2 Mass Balance Processes Mass balances will be established for influent and effluent streams, electron donor consumption, and sulphur recovery. Key reactions: Sulphate reduction: 〖SO〗_4^(2-)+ 〖8e〗^-+ 〖10H〗^+ → H_2 S+4H_2 O Sulphide oxidation: 2H_2 S+ O_2 →2S+ 2 H_2 O
About University of Cape Coast
The University of Cape Coast is a comprehensive public research university on Ghana’s central coast, recognized for applied scholarship and nationwide outreach. Industry partners leverage coastal field sites, core laboratories, and a distance‑education network to run pilots and upskill teams close to operations. An affiliated teaching hospital supports clinical training and health‑focused research, while a central research, innovation, and consultancy unit streamlines contracts and co‑development with companies and public agencies. Research is supported by Government of Ghana funding and competitive awards from international development and science agencies. A dedicated technology transfer office advises on IP and licensing and facilitates sponsored research and executive education.
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