Ultrasound for Algae Control
We have been working with ultrasound systems to control algae since 2002 and have experience of all the currently available systems. We understand how it works and can recommend the best system for your application. We have made significant advances in self-cleaning transducers, requiring less maintenance, development of stand-alone solar and wind powered 24V systems. Our systems have an effective range of 100 to 1000m. The picture shows sonoluminescence created by our transducers.
How Ultrasound Works
Transmission of Pulsed Ultrasound through water at frequencies around 40 kHz interact with algal cells. The algal cell boundary layers are supersaturated with dissolved gases O2 and CO2. The ultrasonic pulses create nucleation points for bubble formation, and the bubbles grow and burst under the influence of ultrasound after about half a second. We call this Localised Cellular Micro-Cavitation, similar to the process that causes pits in metal propellers but on a cellular scale. This results in very high pressure and temperatures resulting in cell death and creation of oxidising chemicals such as singlet oxygen and hydrogen peroxide