Ultrasound To Control Blue-Green Algae In Water

Researchers at the University of Adelaide are studying the application of ultrasound to control toxic algal blooms in fresh water supplies. Blue-green algae can contaminate water and create environmental problems when it forms blooms in fresh water. The new ultrasound solution, which has already been tested successfully in labs, will use ultrasound at low amplitudes to immobilize the blue-green algae without releasing its toxins into the water. To implement this, the researchers are planning to mount ultrasound generators inside huge underwater columns that contain mixers to draw the water in for treatment.

The blue-green algae affect quality of water supplies all over the world and is mostly controlled by the application of chemical treatments.

The University of Adelaide

[via Innovations Report]

Image by Mark Sadowski