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Harvesting Microalgae Biomass Using Magnetic Nanoparticles from Iron-Rich Particulate Material
Ana Carolina de Lima Barizão1,2, Larissa Lamburghini Brandão3,2, Giovanna Pinto Pires4,2
1Department of Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Fernando Ferrari avenue, 514, Vitória, Espírito Santo Cep: 29075-910, Brazil.
ACS Omega
|March 2, 2026
Summary
Magnetic nanoparticles from particulate matter efficiently harvest microalgae (Chlorella sp.). Naked nanoparticles achieved 86% harvesting efficiency, while tannin-functionalized ones improved reusability over multiple cycles.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Materials Science
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) offer efficient microalgae harvesting.
- High synthesis costs limit widespread MNP application.
- Novel MNP sources are needed to reduce costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate MNPs from particulate matter for microalgae harvesting.
- Compare naked MNPs with tannin-functionalized MNPs.
- Optimize harvesting efficiency and assess reusability.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized MNPs from particulate matter, characterized by XRD, TEM, SEM, EDS, FTIR, and zeta potential.
- Performed full factorial experiments to optimize pH and MNP concentration for harvesting efficiency.
- Assessed harvesting efficiency (HE %) and nanoparticle reusability.
Main Results:
- Magnetite MNPs (30.5 ± 9.56 nm) were derived from particulate matter.
- Naked MNPs achieved 86% HE at pH 3 and 1250 mg/L.
- Functionalized MNPs reached 77% HE at pH 3.5 and 1100 mg/L, but increased reusability from 3 to 7 cycles.
Conclusions:
- MNPs from particulate matter are effective for microalgae harvesting.
- Naked MNPs offer higher initial efficiency, while functionalized MNPs provide enhanced stability and reusability.
- Cost-effective MNP production is feasible using particulate matter for microalgae cultivation.
