Optimization and operation of a demonstrative full scale microalgae harvesting unit based on coagulation, flocculation and sedimentation

Biomass harvesting is a bottleneck in microalgae culture and microalgae-based wastewater treatment systems. Sedimentation coupled to coagulation flocculation has been experimentally studied for long time, however, full scale sedimentation experiences have not addressed so far literature, scaling up from experimental results may be straightforward. The aim of this study was evaluate the performance unit demonstration biorefinery resource recovery. consisted coagulation, within lamella settler with volume 0.7 m3. A high correlation between influent turbidity coagulant dose could established, that determined daily just measuring without performing any jar-test. Suspended solids concentration clarified water always <26 mg·L−1 <8 NTU. harvested biomass ranged 0.8 2.5% mixed liquor volume. This also well correlated standard V30 tests zone, which used as test control. 5 20 g·L−1. Additionally, pulse strategy (with sudden discharges at flow rate) avoid accumulation inside settling tank. present demonstrates how process separation can operated by means very few simple tools.