Grant: Alliance Grants

Wastewater treatment processes face challenges due to population growth, aging infrastructure, changing regulations, environmental concerns, and climate change. The implementation of phototrophic microorganisms in the treatment process are promising, but practical and cost-effective applications are lacking due to space requirements, energy costs and fouling of surfaces. We are collaborating with VEOLIA, an industry-leader in water technologies and process expertise to solve wastewater and process challenges. The goal of this partnership is to develop and test a modular nutrient removal system for municipal wastewater treatment using phototrophic microorganisms. By growing microorganisms directly on side glowing light fibers, light can be delivered more efficiently and metabolic activity, biomass production, biofilm composition and nutrient removal can be precisely regulated, and carbon and oxygen management can be optimized. We will generate crucial data on cyanobacteria and purple photosynthetic bacteria biofilms, conduct trials with artificial and natural wastewater, and analyze a range of parameters relevant to the water treatment field and the implementation of this novel approach. The proposed system reduces costs, avoids the need for new facilities, and mitigates climate change by capturing carbon dioxide and other green house gases that are released during the water treatment process. These outcomes will inform policies, standards, and technologies for wastewater treatment in Canada and is vital for Canada's growing population and environmental sustainability concerns.