Practical Algal Control in Lower Yangtze Reservoirs Using Composite Microfiltration Physical Enclosure

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Water Treatment Technologies
• Materials Science

Background:

• Reservoir algal contamination, particularly from microalgae (<100 μm), threatens water quality in the lower Yangtze River.
• Conventional physical barriers are ineffective against microscopic algal clusters, necessitating advanced solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a composite microfiltration physical enclosure system for enhanced microalgae removal.
• To improve the protection of downstream drinking water sources and ensure stable reservoir operation.

Main Methods:

• Integration of a microfiltration membrane with a mechanical support layer onto physical enclosures.
• Laboratory-scale and field-scale testing of the composite enclosure system for algal removal efficiency.

Main Results:

• The composite membrane demonstrated excellent interception efficiency against algal aggregates.
• Algae density in filtered water was reduced by over 80% across multiple species.
• Effective filtration of microscopic algae, reducing downstream contamination risks.

Conclusions:

• The developed composite microfiltration enclosure system offers a viable solution for microalgae control in reservoirs.
• This technology alleviates the burden on traditional water treatment processes and reduces operational costs.
• Enhances the safety and stability of drinking water supplies threatened by algal blooms.