Assessment of microalga biofilms for simultaneous remediation and biofuel generation in mine tailings water

Palma, H., Killoran, E., Sheehan, M., Berner, F., and Heimann, K. (2017) Assessment of microalga biofilms for simultaneous remediation and biofuel generation in mine tailings water. Bioresource Technology, 234. pp. 327-335.

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Abstract

Microalgae crops can generate a biochemical profile of high energy density and may be used for remediation of contaminated waste waters. This manuscript presents a laboratory-scale investigation into the potential for growing endemic microalgae biofilms in phosphorus-enriched nickel refinery tailings water, with an emphasis on product potential and the remediation of heavy metals. The dominant species of the consortia was a Chlorella-like microalga. The growth was monitored over time, with a productivity (0.77 ± 0.07 g AFDW.m−2.day−1) showing promising potential. The biochemical profile of biomass had a high total carbohydrate yield (40.0%), and a potential for increased lipid yields (6.7–19.5%). Biofilms showed a significant potential for the removal of heavy metals (Ni, Co, Mn, Sr) from the waste water with 24.8%, 10.5%, 24.8% and 26.4% reduction in Ni, Co, Mn and Sr, respectively. Results highlight significant potential for large-scale biofilm biomass production using metal-laden nickel refinery waste waters.

Item ID: 48151
Item Type: Article (Research - C1)
ISSN: 1873-2976
Keywords: microalgae; water treatment; metal absorption; biofilm; biofuel
Funders: James Cook University (JCU)
Projects and Grants: JCU Small Project Partnership Grant
Date Deposited: 03 Apr 2017 01:39
FoR Codes: 41 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES > 4103 Environmental biotechnology > 410303 Bioremediation @ 50%
31 BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES > 3106 Industrial biotechnology > 310602 Bioprocessing, bioproduction and bioproducts @ 40%
31 BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES > 3106 Industrial biotechnology > 310605 Industrial microbiology (incl. biofeedstocks) @ 10%
SEO Codes: 84 MINERAL RESOURCES (excl. Energy Resources) > 8498 Environmentally Sustainable Mineral Resource Activities > 849805 Management of Water Consumption by Mineral Resource Activities @ 50%
85 ENERGY > 8505 Renewable Energy > 850501 Biofuel (Biomass) Energy @ 50%
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