Ecological wastewater treatment is the future of water supply

Looking to the future, effective wastewater treatment solutions are becoming increasingly important to our collective efforts to protect and restore our natural water resources. Increasing water pollution worldwide poses a major challenge to the environment and to people. Contamination by heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, nitrogen compounds, phosphorus and various organic pollutants such as pesticides and herbicides are major contributors to water pollution. These substances have harmful effects on humans, animals and ecosystems and lead to problems such as reduced biodiversity and the destruction of habitats. The importance of clean water for the preservation of the livelihoods of our planet and its inhabitants is immeasurable.

Wastewater to product: Microalgae transform pollutants into valuable substances

Wastewater treatment with microalgae is an environmentally friendly and efficient solution that uses the natural filtering properties of microalgae to absorb and neutralise pollutants.This process not only improves water quality, but also contributes to a sustainable circular economy. It produces reusable biomass that can be used for various applications, including the production of high-quality materials. The remaining biomass can be converted into energy or used as fertiliser or animal feed.

Wastewater treatment with microalgae is an environmentally friendly and efficient solution that uses the natural filtering properties of microalgae to absorb and neutralise pollutants.This process not only improves water quality, but also contributes to a sustainable circular economy. It produces reusable biomass that can be used for various applications, including the production of high-quality materials. The remaining biomass can be converted into energy or used as fertiliser or animal feed.

Wastewater treatment with advanced microalgae production systems

The industrial production system (IPS) from Subitec enables the cultivation of microalgae in large volumes. The quantities produced allow the large clarifiers to be filled with sufficient microalgae to ensure efficient and successful wastewater treatment. At the heart of the IPS are two CM180 modules, each with a cultivation volume of 5,400 litres, which can be expanded as required. On a footprint of just 16 square metres, each module has a photosynthetic surface area of 270 square metres. The IPS also includes a complex cultivation infrastructure for efficient operation. It includes the media preparation, harvesting unit, cleaning unit and control unit.

Flat-Panel-Airlift-Photobioreactors

At the heart of the Subitec microalgae production systems are the Flat Panel Airlift (FPA) photobioreactors developed by the Fraunhofer Institute. These reactors are tailored to the optimised growth of microalgae and ensure a high biomass yield combined with high quality, which is crucial for effective wastewater treatment. The FPA technology ensures maximum light exposure and improved gas exchange, which are key factors for fast and healthy microalgae growth. This results in a more efficient wastewater treatment process, utilising the natural capabilities of microalgae in an advanced technological environment.

Use of microalgae for environmentally friendly water purification

Microalgae act as natural biofilters in wastewater treatment. They absorb and neutralise pollutants through processes such as bioaccumulation and biotransformation. Microalgae assimilate nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which are frequently found in wastewater, and thus reduce the risk of eutrophication. They are also able to bind heavy metals and break down organic pollutants, thus helping to detoxify the water. After treatment, the microalgae biomass, which now contains these absorbed substances, can be harvested for safe disposal or resource recovery.

Anabaena is a cyanobacterium that can fix atmospheric nitrogen. It is also a source of essential amino acids and vitamins, especially B vitamins. It is used in dietary supplements designed to support overall health and well-being. Anabaena thrives in freshwater environments.

AFA is a wild-harvested cyanobacterium with high levels of protein, vitamin B12 and phytonutrients, making it a popular ingredient in supplements designed to boost energy and promote brain health. AFA requires a freshwater environment for its growth.

Chlorella is a green freshwater algae that is rich in chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for its detoxifying properties. It also contains proteins, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, C and B. Chlorella is often used in food supplements to detoxify and strengthen the immune system. It requires fresh water, sunlight and carbon dioxide for optimal growth.

This cyanobacterium is less researched than the others, but it is known for its ability to produce a variety of bioactive compounds. For optimal growth, Cyanobacterium aponinum requires a freshwater environment.

Dunaliella salina is a salt-tolerant algae known for its high content of beta-carotene, which is a precursor to vitamin A. It is used in food supplements to support eye health and immune function. Dunaliella salina thrives in highly saline environments.

This type of algae is known for producing astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that benefits eye and skin health. It is often used in dietary supplements to improve skin condition and support eye health. Haematococcus pluvialis prefers a freshwater environment and requires a two-stage cultivation process with a green phase for growth and a red phase for astaxanthin production.

This marine microalgae is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, making it a valuable ingredient in dietary supplements designed to support heart health, reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin. Nannochloropsis requires a salty environment and plenty of sunlight to grow.

This marine diatom is a source of the omega-3 fatty acid EPA and various antioxidants. It is used in dietary supplements to promote heart health, reduce inflammation and support mental health. Phaeodactylum tricornutum prefers a marine environment for its growth.

This green algae is rich in proteins and antioxidants. It is used in food supplements to promote general health and well-being. Scenedesmus prefers a freshwater environment and tolerates a wide range of light and temperature conditions.

Spirulina is a cyanobacterium that is rich in proteins and essential amino acids. It contains antioxidants such as phycocyanin, a blue pigment that fights oxidative stress. Spirulina also contains vitamins, including B vitamins, and minerals such as iron and manganese. It is often used in dietary supplements to support immune function, improve digestion and reduce fatigue. Spirulina thrives in highly alkaline environments with high salt content, making it suitable for controlled cultivation.
Scale up potential - Microalgae Production
Improved mixing - Microalgae Production
Reduced shear stress - Microalgae Production
Closed system - Microalgae Production
Precise control - Microalgae Production
Higher CO2 utilization - Microalgae Production
Small space requirement - Microalgae Production
Water saving - Microalgae Production
Large photosynthetic surface - Microalgae Production

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Industrial Production

The industrial system from Subitec is an advanced platform for efficient production processes. With the central CM180 modules and the matching Cultivation Infrastructure, it revolutionises industrial production.

Pre-Scale & Lab-Scale

We offer a range of lab-scale and pre-scale microalgal production systems designed to meet a variety of requirements. Each system has unique specifications that make it ideal for a particular set of applications.

Substances & Applications

Discover microalgae that hold immense potential for commercial use. This introduction provides an in-depth look at 30 widely distributed and commercially valuable microalgal species, including cyanobacteria.