Ultrasonic Algae Control _
LG Sonic uses ultrasonic programs that can vary in wave form, frequency,
pause and amplitude that are optimized to the algae type, growth stage
and application. These programs are based on specific algorithms developed
after years of research. In addition, each MPC-Buoy system that acquires water quality data sends this to the same server, optimizing the algorithms even further. Ultrasound is effective only through the choice of suitable ultrasonic frequency programs, based on algae type, their growth stage and the water quality characteristics. Each ultrasonic program emitted by LG Sonic is designed to stay under the cavitation limit and is therefore safe for humans and other (aquatic) organisms.
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Planktonic algae rely on their buoyancy to obtain sufficient sunlight at the water surface. Some do this through synthesis of gas vesicles, while others use the presence of lipids within the cell to regulate their buoyancy. By impacting the buoyancy of algae, LG Sonic ultrasound prevents them from performing photosynthesis, while beneficial aquatic organisms can grow back.
Specifically, blue-green algae travel up and down the water column; they go to the surface to absorb sunlight for photosynthesis and to the bottom for nutrients. LG Sonic ultrasound fixes the algae in the water column, preventing them from making these movements and restricting their metabolic activities. By doing this, water quality parameters improve, such as pH and light penetration, allowing other aquatic organisms such as benthic plants to regrow and absorb nutrients.
LG Sonic technology is developed in over 10 years of research undertaken by universities, research institutions and is jointly funded by the European Commission. MPC-Buoy controls algal blooms in large lakes and reservoirs. It uses LG Sonic’s interactive ultrasound technology with integrated water quality monitoring.
1. Monitor
The MPC-Buoy provides a complete overview of the water quality by collecting the following parameters every 10 minutes: Chlorophyll α (green algae), Phycocyanin (blue-green algae), pH, Turbidity, Dissolved Oxygen, and Temperature.
2. Predict
The collected data is delivered in real-time via 3G/4G to a web-based software. By making use of Artificial Intelligence, MPC-Buoy modifies the ultrasonic program to the specific water conditions and predicts an algal bloom up to 3-10 days ahead. Our customers have access to their water quality data via the MPC-View water quality software.
3. Control
The MPC algorithm activates the optimal ultrasonic treatment
frequencies according to the water conditions and type of algae
present. The ultrasound creates a sound layer that prevents the
algae from accessing sunlight and nutrients. By fixing the algae
in the water column, it reduces existing algae and prevents the
growth of new algae.
The effects on the aquatic ecosystem of any water treatment must be tested and secured. Different universities have investigated the impacts of LG Sonic ultrasound technology, and it has been proven to be safe for fish, plants and Zooplankton.
The University of Portsmouth in UK, the University of Catania (UNICT) in Italy, the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia, and University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences BOKU in Austria carried out studies on the impact of ultrasound frequencies on aquatic ecosystems.
H&H Pro Limited is the Exclusive Distributor in Republic of Korea
appointed by LG Sonic (The Netherlands)