Exploring Electro-Coagulation Techniques for Efficient Algae Separation

Abstract

The rapid proliferation of algae in water bodies due to nutrient loading and climate change poses significant challenges to water quality and ecosystem health. Traditional algae removal techniques such as filtration, chemical coagulation, and centrifugation are often expensive and environmentally harmful. Electrocoagulation (EC) has emerged as a promising, costeffective, and environmentally friendly alternative for algae separation from aqueous solutions. This study investigates the potential of EC techniques for algae removal, examining the influence of operational  parameters such as voltage, electrode material, pH, and algal species on separation efficiency. The effectiveness of EC was compared to traditional coagulation methods, and the findings suggest that EC offers significant advantages  in terms of reduced chemical use, lower energy consumption, and improved separation rates. The research aims to establish EC as a feasible solution for large-scale algae removal in wastewater treatment and environmental management.