Algae Separation System Using Bubble Buoyancy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies face challenges in efficiently separating algae from water without rupturing the algae cells, which is crucial for reducing environmental impact and harnessing algae for fuel production.

Innovation Solution

The algae separation system employs a tank with an algae separation chamber, a bubble generator, and a skimming mechanism. The system introduces gas-containing water to generate bubbles that bond with algae particles, imparting buoyancy and allowing them to float for easy removal, while maintaining the integrity of the algae cells.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional separation methods are used to remove algae from water, then algae separation efficiency is improved, but algae cells are ruptured causing harmful emissions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvealgae separation efficiencyVSAvoidharmful emissions from ruptured cells

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses dissolved air flotation (DAF) technology where gas-containing water is introduced into the mixing region, and a bubble generator creates microbubbles that attach to algae particles. The pneumatic action of bubbles rising through the water column separates algae gently without mechanical stress that would rupture cells, resolving the contradiction between separation efficiency and cell integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces gas-containing water as an intermediary medium. The dissolved gas forms bubbles that act as a mediator between the water phase and algae particles, enabling separation through buoyancy rather than direct mechanical contact. This intermediary approach achieves efficient separation while preserving cell integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Speed

If mechanical separation methods are used to remove algae, then separation speed is improved, but algae cell integrity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseparation speedVSAvoidalgae cell integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

SpeedVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces mechanical separation forces with pneumatic-buoyancy forces. Bubbles generated in the mixing region provide upward thrust to algae particles at controlled speeds, achieving rapid separation without the high shear stresses of mechanical methods that would damage cell walls.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the separation mechanism from mechanical force to buoyancy force by introducing dissolved gas. This parameter change in the separation mechanism allows for adjustable bubble size and rise velocity, enabling fast separation while maintaining gentle handling of algae cells.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If chemical coagulants and flocculants are used to enhance algae separation, then separation effectiveness is improved, but chemical usage and environmental impact increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseparation effectivenessVSAvoidchemical environmental impact

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent converts the naturally occurring surface properties of algae particles into a benefit by using bubble attachment. Instead of adding chemicals to modify particle properties, the system exploits the natural hydrophobicity or surface characteristics of algae to facilitate bubble adhesion, turning the particles' inherent properties into a separation advantage without chemical additives.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The algae particles themselves provide the separation mechanism through their interaction with bubbles. The particles' surface properties enable selective bubble attachment and rise, allowing the system to separate algae based on their inherent characteristics without requiring external chemical agents.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach effectively separates algae from water without rupturing the cells, enabling efficient removal of algae from natural water sources and reducing harmful emissions, thus addressing environmental concerns and potential applications in fuel production.

Implementation Method 1

the plurality of bubbles from the gas-containing liquid bond to algae particles in the algae-containing water and float the algae particles in the flotation region

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBuoyancy: Archimedes' Principle (Buoyancy)

Data Source

PatentUS20250187944A1Algae separation system

Publication Date: 2025.06.12 AECOM F K A URS CORP

AI summary

An algae separation system can comprise a tank comprising an algae separation chamber. The system can comprise a first inlet to supply algae-containing water to a mixing region of the algae separation chamber. The system can comprise a second inlet to supply gas-containing water comprising dissolved gas to the mixing region of the algae separation chamber. The system can comprise a bubble generator in fluid communication with the second inlet, the bubble generator configured to generate a plurality of bubbles from the gas-containing water and to supply the plurality of bubbles to the mixing region to mix with the algae-containing water.