Technology

The innovative technological solution is focusing on solving the problem of cyanobacterial blooms (mass occurrence) in standing freshwater bodies. The system comprises a floating working platform (a vessel) and a service harbour. The vessel is equipped with an advanced sensory system and a water sampler.  Sensors enable detection of cyanobacteria in their early stages of occurrence as well as green algae and other environmental parameters. Stored water samples can be used for further laboratory analysis.

The reduction of cyanobacteria concentration is provided by a system based on electrochemical activity, which triggers lysis (break down) of cyanobacteria cells. Photovoltaic panels are used for additional power supply of the system. The electronic navigation system, based on self-learning algorithm, enables autonomous movement of the device on the trajectories with detected elevated levels of phycocyanines, specific cyanobacteria pigments.  The central control system with established wireless connection allows remote monitoring of system functioning and simultaneous transfer and display of the measured data.

Components of technological solution

Application of technological solution

The technological solution is intended for operators of water bodies threatened by eutrophication (excessive content of plant nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus and organic compounds) and thus under the risk of excessive cyanobacterial proliferation, as well as for users who need instant information on the status of the water body.

Potential users of the technological solutions are managers of:

• natural baths
• surface reservoirs of drinking water
• fish ponds and aquacultures
• reservoirs of hydro power plants
• and all who need early and continuous information about the status of the water body and the action before the onset of irreversible consequences.

The application of technological solutions enables to obtain a large number of environmental data on the state of the water body in real time scale compared to conventional water sampling and laboratory analyzes. The use of electrochemical methods for treatment of cyanobacterial populations have no negative effects on the aquatic ecosystem as is the case with the use of chemicals to bind phosphorus and suppress the growth of cyanobacteria.