Algae-Based Approach for Desalination: An Emerging Energy-Passive and Environmentally Friendly Desalination Technology

Abstract

Desalination processes are critical for producing freshwater from salty water, and an algae-based desalination approach has drawn increasing attention as a potential low-cost and passive-energy desalination technology, which could be a competitive solution to desalination in remote areas impacted by water shortages. As the first comprehensive review in this emerging research field, a systematic analysis of the published results from the relevant studies is presented, and algae salt removal mechanisms are summarized. It is suggested that both nonmetabolic biosorption and metabolic-dependent bioaccumulation make contributions to salt removal, but bioaccumulation had a relatively minor role and required a significantly longer time for the reaction compared to the biosorption process. To select the most appropriate algae species for an algae-based desalination process, salt acclimation and salt removal abilities are considered as the two key selection criteria. Process configuration, influent water characteristics, algae harvesting, and reuse should also be taken into consideration during algae screening and selection. Based on the advantages and limitations of an algae-based desalination system, we have suggested different implementation strategies for algae-based desalination systems. Utilization of algae for brackish water treatment could be a more viable option compared to the seawater desalination. Combining an algae-based desalination system with wastewater treatment or the RO process could potentially improve the overall system economic feasibility. The focus areas of future studies are recommended, including system life-cycle cost analysis, energy efficient separation of algae from the effluent, mathematical simulation of the salt removal process, and the effects of engineering approaches on the salt removal process.

Evaluation of Dunaliella salina Growth in Different Salinities for Potential Application on Saline Wastewater Treatment and Biomass Production

“…Using microalgae to treat water for diverse applications is a cost-efficient approach [11,12]. This proposed solution holds the potential to address the challenge of minimal expense desalination [13,14], yet microalgae desalination attempts have been reported for well over a decade now [15]. Algae-based desalination systems with algal biomass reuse have low environmental impacts due to lower energy consumption, lower operational and maintenance requirements, and potential for electricity generation [11].…”

Brackish Water Phytodesalination by the Euhalophyte Sesuvium portulacastrum

“…In addition, they can be developed Water 2024, 16, 1798 2 of 10 in different ways, and a variety of types have been described in the literature [7]. An emerging desalination technology using algae has recently been receiving more and more attention [8].…”

Evaluation of Dunaliella salina Growth in Different Salinities for Potential Application on Saline Wastewater Treatment and Biomass Production

“…Using algae to treat water for diverse applications is an innovative cost-efficient approach. This proposed solution holds the potential to address the challenge of minimal expense desalination [11,12]. These microorganisms are incredibly diverse, ranging from tiny single-celled organisms to larger, more complex species that can thrive in a wide range of environments, from different aquatic environments to arid environments [13].…”