In our latest work, Dr. Li , Mr. Xiao and Dr. Ju discuss the use of phagotrophic algae to convert waste activated sludge into algal biomass.
Waste activated sludge is a by-produt of waste water treatment and potentially has a high amount of residual organics that may be difficult to access. This waste product is typically sent to land fills. In this study, O. danica was shown to directly consume both bacteria and organic particles. Results show a volatile solids reduction by 28% to 36%, depending on the sludge type. With about 20% going into algal lipids (a potential value added product).
Full results, including the small organic acid profiles, algal lipid yields, and time effects can be found in the March issue of Water Research.