Project tests use of microalgae to remove pollutants from wastewater and convert biomass into green products
The researchers are now testing the feasibility of converting the biomass into innovative products such as 'green' ophthalmic lenses and a photobioreactor.
The "NABIA - New Approach to Bioremediation using Algae" project, led by Telma Encarnação and Abílio Sobral, researchers at the Chemistry Centre of the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Coimbra (FCTUC), is testing the use of microalgae for the removal of pollutants from waste water and the use of this biomass for the production of bio-based products.
“This project addresses the need to find a potential solution to the problem of water pollution caused by emerging pollutants and proposes the decontamination of wastewater using microalgae, with an approach based on the generation of biomass and its subsequent economic valorisation,” explains Telma Encarnação, adding that the research “focused on the bioremediation of wastewater generated by the production of ophthalmic lenses in the optical industry, using partner companies as case studies. We analysed their composition since patents and industrial secrecy mostly protect these materials.”
The research team first identified the persistent environmental chemicals in wastewater sources and evaluated the efficacy and efficiency of using microalgae to bioremediate synthetic chemicals. They are now testing the feasibility of converting the biomass into innovative products such as 'green' ophtalmic lenses and a photobioreactor, optimising the process to maximise the biomaterial content of the microalgae.
"NABIA aims not only to solve emerging problems related to pollutants in wastewater, but also to promote sustainable economic development by fostering a circular economy through the valorisation of biological resources," concludes the FCTUC researcher.
The NABIA project is supported by partner companies Farmi, Mlab, Moldetipo, Opticentro and PTScience and can be followed on this website.