GUWAHATI: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, has pioneered a sustainable approach to remove ammonium from wastewater by using a combination of microalgae and bacteria. This research was carried out by a team led by Prof. Kannan Pakshirajan.
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The research team developed a photo-sequencing batch reactor (PSBR) where microalgae produce oxygen through photosynthesis, which nitrifying bacteria then use to convert ammonium into nitrate. The process is followed by denitrification under anoxic conditions to convert nitrate into nitrogen, eliminating the need for external aeration and making the process highly energy-efficient.
“Our system offers a sustainable solution for treating wastewater while cutting down on energy costs,” said Prof. Pakshirajan from the Department of Bioscience and Bioengineering. “By harnessing the oxygen naturally produced by microalgae, we make the process more efficient and cost-effective.”
The research team, including Prof. G. Pugazhenthi and several postdoctoral researchers, relatively demonstrated that the PSBR system achieves energy savings of up to 91.33% over conventional methods, combining scientific modelling with real-world data to optimise ammonium removal.
This breakthrough presents a viable, eco-friendly alternative for industries looking to reduce the environmental impact of wastewater.