Modular system for bioremediation of eutrophicated and / or polluted water

Abstract

The present invention provides a modular facility for bioremediation of eutrophicated aquatic ecosystems. The facility comprises a freight transport container with an inlet for eutrophicated water at one end and an outlet for bioremediated water at the opposite end. The facility comprises a pretreatment area downstream of the water inlet, with a pump for driving eutrophicated water and at least one filter. The facility also comprises at least one bioremediation tank intended for the culture of macroalgae and / or spermatophytes and / or bacteria and for the removal of nutrients of the eutrophicated water, followed by an area for post-treating the treated water, which comprises at least one reservoir for returning the treated water to the aquatic ecosystem. The facility further comprises an electrical outlet, a system for controlling the bioremediation facility, configured to monitor pollutants in the treated water continuously and in real time, and an HVAC system configured to maintain temperature and humidity inside the container at predetermined levels.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Modular bioremediation system for eutrophic and / or contaminated water

[0003] Technical field of the invention

[0004] The present invention belongs to the technical field of green technologies for environmental bioremediation, in particular to technologies for the treatment of eutrophic waters by means of a biotechnological process with the use of microorganisms, plants and / or algae to degrade or absorb pollutants, also known as bioremediation of eutrophic waters.

[0005] Background of the invention

[0006] Eutrophication is one of the main causes of pollution in aquatic ecosystems such as lakes, reservoirs, and other bodies of water like rivers and lagoons. It occurs when a body of water receives a very high input of inorganic nutrients, mainly nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), originating from human activity or natural causes. These nutrients accumulate in the water and lead to uncontrolled growth of algae and aquatic plants, causing a significant oxygen deficit and the consequent decline or death of fish and invertebrate organisms.

[0007] The main human-caused sources of nitrogen and phosphorus in water bodies come from the use of fertilizers in agriculture, manure management in livestock farming, transportation, large combustion, incineration, and co-incineration plants, as well as other types of facilities such as refineries and cement plants, due to the atmospheric deposition of nitrogen from combustion in the form of rain. Preventive measures against eutrophication include reducing the amount of phosphates and nitrates in wastewater discharges, lowering ammonia emissions, managing manure properly, using fewer detergents containing polyphosphates, and injecting oxygen into waterways.

[0008] Oxygenation of water is one of the processes that can most contribute to improving the quality of eutrophic water by promoting the oxidation of nitrogen and phosphorus compounds, which are the main nutrients that cause this phenomenon. However, this technique is not viable for regenerating entire ecosystems.

[0009] From a socioeconomic perspective, eutrophication impacts economic activities linked to aquatic ecosystems and also human health. Economic losses attributed to eutrophication include the costs of purifying water for human use, as well as losses in fish production and wildlife.

[0010] Summary description of the invention

[0011] A first aspect of the invention provides a modular bioremediation installation for eutrophic aquatic ecosystems comprising a freight transport container comprising: -

[0012] -an inlet for eutrophic waters;

[0013] - an outlet for the waters subjected to bioremediation;

[0014] - a pretreatment zone downstream of the eutrophic water inlet, said pretreatment zone including at least one pump to pump the eutrophic water drawn from the aquatic ecosystem and at least one filter;

[0015] - followed by at least one bioremediation tank intended for the cultivation of macroalgae and / or phanerogams and / or bacteria and the removal of nutrients from eutrophic waters; - followed by a post-treatment zone for the treated water that has passed through the at least one bioremediation tank, which also includes at least one sump for returning the treated water to the aquatic ecosystem

[0016] - an electrical outlet;

[0017] - a bioremediation facility control system configured to continuously monitor, in real time, the levels of contaminants in the treated water flow in use; and

[0018] - a climate control system configured to maintain the temperature and humidity inside the container at predetermined levels.

[0019] With a bioremediation system like the one described above, it's easy to transport the system by trailer to the aquatic ecosystem to be regenerated. Once the ecosystem is regenerated, the bioremediation system can be removed without any civil engineering work, leaving the aquatic ecosystem and its surroundings completely undisturbed. In other words, it's a "plug-and-play" system, ready for use simply by supplying electricity.

[0020] Furthermore, being modular, a scalable system can be achieved, expanding the treatment capacity simply by adding multiple equipped containers as described.

[0021] Primarily, the facility is intended to regenerate or bioremediate marine or brackish ecosystems affected by human activity, although its application is also being considered in freshwater ecosystems far from the coast, as well as in watercourses effluent from polluting industries.

[0022] The facility allows for the cultivation of algae and / or flowering plants and / or bacteria inside, which capture nutrients from the water flow being treated, reducing levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and heavy metals, among other pollutants. Thanks to its control system, this system maintains optimal conditions at all times, enabling the algae to efficiently carry out the bioremediation process. By reducing the amount of pollutants present in the water, it contributes to improving the quality of the aquatic ecosystem and mitigating the negative impacts of human activity on the environment.

[0023] At least one filter in the pretreatment zone may include a ring filter. The ring filter should be 130 microns and performs the first stage of filtration, capturing large solid particles present in the contaminated water. This helps prevent clogging of the pumping systems and protects subsequent components of the bioremediation system.

[0024] At least one filter in the pretreatment area may also include a 5-micron filter. This filter is connected via a bypass, which is used if the water to be treated contains very small contaminants, ensuring that the water reaching the algae tanks does not contain solid particles larger than 5 microns. This filter is used to remove turbidity caused by very small particles. Turbidity prevents light from propagating properly in the water, which would reduce the effectiveness of photosynthesis in algae and / or flowering plants.

[0025] The pre-treatment zone may include an ultraviolet (UV) radiation disinfection system, which is used to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms and microalgae present in the water that may compete with macroalgae for nutrient absorption.

[0026] At least one tank configured for the cultivation of macroalgae and / or phanerogams and / or bacteria may be made of fiberglass and serves as a storage tank for the treated water. It allows the treated water to accumulate before being returned to the environment.

[0027] Preferably, the at least one tank configured for the cultivation of macroalgae and / or phanerogams and / or bacteria is cylindrical in shape, as this results in fewer dead zones and more homogeneous and uniform water circulation and growth of the algae, phanerogams, and / or bacteria throughout the volume of the at least one tank. The at least one tank may include a lighting system. The lighting system may comprise LED panels configured to artificially illuminate the interior of the at least one tank and promote the optimal growth of the macroalgae, phanerogams, and / or bacteria. Light is a critical factor for the process of photosynthesis, which is fundamental for the growth and metabolism of the macroalgae, phanerogams, and / or bacteria. Lighting systems other than LED panels may be used without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0028] The post-treatment zone may include an ozone disinfection system. Ozone is used to disinfect and break down organic contaminants present in the water. It helps eliminate persistent chemical compounds and organic pollutants, thus contributing to water purification.

[0029] The post-treatment zone may include a mechanical sock filter to help remove suspended solids before pouring the treated water into the medium.

[0030] The bioremediation plant's control system, designed to continuously monitor contaminant levels in the treated water flow in real time, comprises one or more sensors for measuring water quality parameters. These sensors continuously monitor water quality throughout the bioremediation process. This allows for real-time adjustments to optimize system efficiency and ensure that water quality standards are met before final discharge.

[0031] Finally, the settling tank provides a space where the treated water is calmed and channeled before being returned to the environment. It helps prevent turbulence and allows for a controlled release of the treated water.

[0032] The climate control system may include an air conditioner and / or a heat pump and / or a heating unit. Brief description of the drawings

[0033] The following describes an embodiment of the present invention, with reference to the following figures, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 represents a schematic view of a bioremediation facility for eutrophic waters according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] The following describes in detail a bioremediation facility for eutrophic waters according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 1 shows a modular bioremediation facility 10 for eutrophic aquatic ecosystems comprising a freight transport container 12. The container is made of corten steel and has dimensions of 6.1 m long by 2.44 m wide and 2.6 m high.

[0037] The container has an inlet 14 to receive eutrophic water at one end and an outlet 16 at the opposite end to return the water subjected to bioremediation to the aquatic ecosystem to be regenerated or bioremediated.

[0038] Immediately downstream of the water inlet is a pretreatment zone 18 comprising a 130-micron ring filter 20 (Hidraten brand). This filter performs the first stage of filtration, capturing large solid particles present in the eutrophic water. This helps prevent clogging of a pump located downstream of the filter and protects subsequent components of the bioremediation system.

[0039] Upstream of the ring filter 20, there is a pump 22 to circulate the eutrophic water drawn from the aquatic ecosystem. The pump is a Ninfa NK 25 type and has a power of 0.25 hp (184 W). This provides a flow rate of 6 m³ / h under ideal conditions. A 5-micron filter is located in a bypass section of the pipeline. This filter is used if the water to be treated contains very small contaminant particles, ensuring that the water reaching the algae tanks does not contain solid particles larger than 5 microns. This filter is used to remove turbidity caused by very small particles. Turbidity prevents light from propagating properly in the water, which would reduce the effectiveness of photosynthesis in the algae and / or flowering plants.

[0040] The pre-treatment area also includes a 24-hour ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system, used to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms and microalgae present in the water that may compete with macroalgae for nutrient absorption. The 24-hour UV disinfection system consists of six 55W lamps that emit radiation with a wavelength of 257.3 nm.

[0041] The pretreatment zone comprises, downstream of the ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system, a bacterial water treatment system using expanded clay bioballs.

[0042] The bacterial treatment system works by filling PVC pipes with expanded clay bio-balls, where the bacteria can become trapped. These bio-balls are supplied by FILTRALITE and range in size from 2 to 5 mm. Once the PVC pipes are filled with the bio-balls, they are installed on the walls of the container and connected to the water supply using PVC valves. At the top of the pipes, there is an opening connected to a syringe, through which the carbon source is added. After the water has been circulating for a day, the bacteria (either Nitrosomonas europaea or Nitrobacter winogradskyi) are added, which operate in complete darkness. Five milliliters of carbon are added to the system each week. The temperature is the ambient temperature of the water intake, between 19°C and 29°C.

[0043] Downstream of the bacterial treatment system, there are three bioremediation tanks, each made of fiberglass and with a capacity of 2,600 liters. These tanks are connected so that all three fill simultaneously with the same flow rate from the general water supply, with individual flow control via flow meters. The tanks are intended for the cultivation of Ulva macroalgae and the removal of nutrients from eutrophic waters. They are cylindrical, measuring 1.5 meters in diameter and 1.5 meters in height.

[0044] Tanks 26 have an overflow system made of PVC-75 and two meshes located in the PVC openings, the first one has a porosity greater than 1 mm, this is covered by another with a porosity less than 1 mm.

[0045] Above the algae cultivation tanks is a lighting system (28) inside the tanks, which provides the necessary light for the algae to photosynthesize. This lighting system (28) comprises an LED panel, located above each tank, consisting of 100W, 6500 Kelvin spotlights that generate 37,000 lumens.

[0046] The tanks are located inside a spill containment basin (B30) to increase the safety of the installation and prevent accidents caused by unintentional spills. The B30 is a fiberglass tank measuring 180 cm long, 97 cm wide, and 39 cm high. Its main function is to collect and contain any leaks from the tanks within the container, thus ensuring that the water is stored safely. Subsequently, the water contained in the B30 can be emptied in a controlled and safe manner.

[0047] In post-treatment zone 32, downstream of the algae cultivation tanks, there is an ozone disinfection system 34. Ozone is used to disinfect and break down organic contaminants present in the water. Ozone helps remove persistent chemical compounds and organic pollutants, thus contributing to water purification. Downstream of the ozone treatment system, there is a 40 cm x 40 cm discharge chamber 36 where a mechanical sock filter has been installed to help remove suspended solids before the treated water is discharged into the environment.

[0048] Also inside the chamber are 36 sensors for continuous, real-time monitoring of nitrate and COD levels in the treated water flow. These sensors are connected to a data logger that wirelessly transmits the measured data to a computer. In total, there are 9 sensors and one data logger: BQS-DCO3-M - Modbus COD, BOD, and TSS sensor (chemical oxygen demand, biological oxygen demand, and total suspended solids); high-range nitrate sensor for wastewater treatment plant inlet (0-1500 ppm); BQS-NH4-M - Modbus eco ammonia sensor using ion-selective sensors; BQS-OXIGENO-M - Modbus optical oxygen sensor; BQS-pH-M - Modbus pH and temperature sensor; and a Modbus data logger with a 230V power supply and 4-5 µG output.

[0049] The temperature inside the container is maintained between 12 and 28 °C throughout the year by means of a climate control system comprising an air conditioner and a heat pump regulated by a thermostat.

[0050] The climate control system is used to ensure an algae culture density of between 1 and 6 g / l.

[0051] Operation of the installation

[0052] The operation of the bioremediation facility described above is described in detail below.

[0053] Water is drawn from the body of water to be treated via a PVC pipe submerged at a depth of more than 50 cm. In this process, the water is pre-filtered using a screen at the intake and another screen in the pump strainer, preventing solids or animals from entering the system. After intake, the water passes through a ring filter with a filtration capacity for solids larger than 130 microns. This retains sand particles and similar-sized solids to prevent sedimentation in the Atlas culture tanks and ensure optimal water clarity.

[0054] If the water to be treated is highly turbid due to particles, it is also passed through an optional 5-micron filter, which retains these particles. If this is not necessary, this stage can be bypassed using ball valves.

[0055] After being mechanically filtered, a physical filtration stage is carried out with a UV sterilizer that eliminates microalgae that may compete with macroalgae and that eliminates pathogens in the water.

[0056] After that, water is injected into the tanks from the bottom to create the appropriate fluid dynamics and recirculate the water containing the suspended algae, ensuring that all organisms receive the same amount of light. The tanks are illuminated by a series of 450W LED lights with adjustable height, controlled by a system of pulleys and hoists.

[0057] The water overflows from a top outlet of the tanks, designed to allow maximum water flow while preventing algae from entering. The water is then channeled from the three tanks to the sump.

[0058] In the water channel that runs from the tanks to the sump, ozone is injected through wooden diffusers attached to the inside of a removable pipe, propelled by a small air compressor, to disinfect the system and the sump, destroying and oxidizing any life forms that may come out of the tank, and making the system as harmless as possible to the environment.

[0059] The water falls into the chamber and passes through filters that mechanically filter the flow. As it falls, the ozone mixes with all the water. Inside the chamber, a system of probes allows us to measure NO3 and COD, comparing them to the initial levels of the aquatic environment being treated, and thus obtaining the reduction rate in real time.

[0060] The water flows out through a channel from the drain back to the middle.

[0061] Phases of the bioremediation process

[0062] The bioremediation process consists of the following phases:

[0063] Nutrient absorption phase in algae: The algae lliva, also known as sea lettuce, is a green alga that performs photosynthesis and absorbs nutrients from the surrounding water. The following explains how the nutrient absorption phase and photosynthesis occur in lliva.

[0064] Photosynthesis in rain

[0065] Photosynthesis is the process by which algae and other plants convert solar energy into chemical energy, stored as glucose. This process occurs in chloroplasts, which contain chlorophyll, the green pigment that captures sunlight.

[0066] 1. Light capture: Chlorophyll and other photosynthetic pigments in rain absorb sunlight, mainly in the blue and red wavelengths.

[0067] 2. Photolysis of water: Light energy is used to split water molecules into oxygen, protons, and electrons in a reaction called photolysis. Oxygen is released as a byproduct.

[0068] 3. Electron transport: The electrons released by the photolysis of water are transported through an electron transport chain, producing a proton gradient that is used to synthesize ATP (adenosine triphosphate). 4. Carbon fixation: In the Calvin cycle, carbon dioxide (CO2) is fixed into organic compounds using the ATP and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) produced in the light reactions, forming glucose and other carbohydrates.

[0069] Nutrient Absorption: Ilva, like other algae, does not have roots or vascular tissue like terrestrial plants. It absorbs nutrients directly from the water through its entire surface.

[0070] 1. Nitrogen Absorption: Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for algae growth. Ilva absorbs nitrogen mainly in the form of nitrate (NO3-) and ammonium (NH4+). These compounds are transported across cell membranes by diffusion and active transport.

[0071] 2. Phosphorus Absorption: phosphorus is absorbed in the form of phosphate (PO4 A 3) It is crucial for the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and ATP. Similar to nitrogen, phosphates are absorbed by diffusion and active transport.

[0072] 3. Other Nutrients: Ilva also needs other nutrients such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, and various micronutrients (iron, manganese, zinc, copper). These are absorbed from water through similar mechanisms.

[0073] Interaction between Photosynthesis and Nutrient Absorption

[0074] Photosynthesis and nutrient uptake are closely linked in lllva. The energy produced during photosynthesis (in the form of ATP and NADPH) is used to power the active transport of nutrients within cells. Furthermore, the carbohydrates produced by photosynthesis are used as an energy source and as building blocks for cell growth, which requires a constant supply of nutrients from the environment. lllva is particularly efficient in these processes due to its simple structure and relatively large surface area, which facilitates a high rate of gas and nutrient exchange with the aquatic environment. This makes it an important organism in marine ecosystems, both as a primary producer and in mitigating eutrophication by absorbing excess nutrients.

[0075] Monitoring phase

[0076] In the measurement phase of the bioremediation process using algae such as Liva, the system's efficiency can be monitored in two different ways, depending on the client's prior knowledge of the quality of their incoming water. Both methodologies are explained in detail below:

[0077] • 1. Monitoring when the client provides input data

[0078] If the client already has data on the quality of the incoming water, this data can be used to compare with the data obtained at the system's outlet. This approach involves the following:

[0079] 1. Input Data: The client provides data on water quality before it enters the bioremediation system. This data may include concentrations of nitrate (NO3), ammonium (NH4), pH, temperature, turbidity, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and biological oxygen demand (BOD).

[0080] 2. Real-Time Sensors: At the outlet of the bioremediation system, sensors are installed that monitor the same parameters in real time (NO3, NH4, pH, temperature, turbidity, COD, and BOD).

[0081] 3. Calculation of Absorption Rates: The output data is analyzed and compared with the input data provided by the client. The differences in contaminant concentrations allow for the calculation of absorption rates and, therefore, the efficiency of the bioremediation process.

[0082] • 2. Monitoring when the client does not provide input data

[0083] If the customer lacks information about the quality of the incoming water, a sensing system can be implemented at both the inlet and outlet. This method involves:

[0084] 1. Inlet and Outlet Sensors: Real-time sensors are installed at both the inlet and outlet of the bioremediation system. These sensors will measure the same parameters (NO3, NH4, pH, temperature, turbidity, COD, and BOD).

[0085] 2. Real-Time Measurement: The sensors continuously collect data, providing a constant flow of information on water quality at both points in the system.

[0086] 3. Calculation by Difference: the data obtained at the input and output of the system are analyzed, and a subtraction of the measured concentrations is performed to determine the absorption rates and the efficiency of the bioremediation.

[0087] Measured parameters and their importance.

[0088] - Nitrate (NO3) and Ammonium (NH4): key indicators of nutrient pollution that algae can absorb and use for their growth.

[0089] - pH: affects the solubility of nutrients and the biological activity of algae.

[0090] - Temperature: influences the metabolic rate of algae and the efficiency of photosynthesis.

[0091] - Turbidity: can indicate the presence of suspended particles that can affect light penetration and, therefore, photosynthesis. - COD and BOD: measure the amount of organic matter present in the water, providing an idea of ​​the organic load that algae are helping to decompose.

[0092] Advantages of real-time monitoring

[0093] - Rapid response: allows immediate adjustments to the bioremediation system if water quality parameters deviate from desired levels.

[0094] - Continuous data: provides a detailed view of variations in water quality over time, facilitating trend analysis and the identification of potential problems.

[0095] - Improved efficiency: helps optimize the bioremediation process by providing accurate information on the effectiveness of the system in real time.

[0096] Implementing these monitoring strategies ensures that the performance of the bioremediation system using algae can be accurately and efficiently assessed, providing valuable data for both the system operator and the client.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A modular bioremediation plant for eutrophic aquatic ecosystems, characterized in that it comprises a freight transport container comprising: -an inlet for eutrophic waters; - an outlet for the waters subjected to bioremediation; - a pretreatment zone downstream of the eutrophic water inlet, said pretreatment zone including at least one pump to pump the eutrophic water drawn from the aquatic ecosystem and at least one filter; - followed by at least one bioremediation tank intended for the cultivation of macroalgae and / or phanerogams and / or bacteria and the removal of nutrients from eutrophic waters; - followed by a post-treatment zone for the treated water that has passed through at least one bioremediation tank, which also includes at least one sump for returning the treated water to the aquatic ecosystem - an electrical outlet; - a bioremediation facility control system configured to continuously monitor, in real time, the levels of contaminants in the treated water flow in use; and - a climate control system configured to maintain the temperature and humidity inside the container at predetermined levels.

2. An installation according to claim 1 characterized in that the at least one filter in the pretreatment zone comprises a ring filter. INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (RULE 20.6) 3. An installation according to claim 2 characterized in that the at least one filter in the pretreatment zone further comprises a 5-micron filter connected by a bypass.

4. An installation according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pre-treatment zone comprises an ultraviolet (UV) radiation disinfection system.

5. An installation according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one tank configured for the cultivation of macroalgae and / or phanerogams and / or bacteria is made of fiberglass.

6. An installation according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one tank configured for the cultivation of macroalgae and / or phanerogams and / or bacteria is cylindrical in shape.

7. An installation according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one tank configured for the cultivation of macroalgae and / or phanerogams and / or bacteria comprises a lighting system.

8. An installation according to claim 7 characterized in that the lighting system comprises LED screens held by a hoist system to regulate their distance to the tanks.

9. An installation according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the post-treatment zone comprises an ozone disinfection system.

10. An installation according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the post-treatment zone comprises a mechanical sock filter. INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (RULE 20.6) 11. An installation according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the installation control system, configured to continuously monitor in real time the levels of contaminants in the treated water flow, comprises one or more sensors for measuring water quality parameters in the treated water.

12. An installation according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the climate control system comprises an air conditioning unit and / or a heat pump and / or a heating unit. INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (RULE 20.6)

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