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| Hauptseite > Publikationsdatenbank > Pharmaceutical remediation using Algal Turf Scrubber (ATS) |
| Hauptseite > Publikationsdatenbank > Pharmaceutical remediation using Algal Turf Scrubber (ATS) |
| Master Thesis | FZJ-2023-05049 |
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2023
Abstract: Pharmaceuticals have become contaminants of emerging concern due to their continued detection and negative effects in aquatic environments. To prevent the release of pharmaceuticals from wastewater facilities, Algal Turf Scrubbers (ATS) have been proposed as a supplemental treatment step. ATS utilize the natural bioremediation capability of algal biofilm to clean re-circulating water. The low input requirements and valuable algal products that can be extracted from an ATS make it a cost-effective and versatile system in pollution remediation. In this lab-scale study, ATS removal efficiency of three common pharmaceuticals (ibuprofen, diclofenac, and sulfamethoxazole (SMX)) was quantified, and the effect of pharmaceutical exposure on the biofilm examined. In the course of a week, the ATS removed 97% of ibuprofen, 80% of SMX, and 79% of diclofenac concentrations. Additionally, total nitrogen and phosphorus were removed up to 29% and 72%, respectively. Changes in fluorescence, pigment production, and biomass productivity were insignificant, suggesting no stress response of the algae exposed to pharmaceuticals. Overall, ATS were effective in pharmaceutical removal without reduction in biofilm function. Further investigation should be done to determine bioremediation mechanisms, biofilm composition, and system efficiency on a larger scale with seasonal variability.
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