Desalination concentrate microalgae cultivation: biomass production and applications

Abstract

The environmental consequences of desalination concentrate disposal have limited the practical adoption of desalination systems for inland brackish water. Desalination concentrate, which is generated by desalination facilities, has the ability to offer water and nutrients for microalgal growth. A useful application for concentrate from desalination systems is required to boost the feasibility of installing desalination procedures for both inland brackish and seawater plants. Several research has been conducted to investigate the use of desalination concentrate as a medium for microalgal culture. This paper reviews the impact of desalination concentrate on microalgal productivity by describing instances of microalgae cultivated in desalination concentrate. Based on the research results, it was found that Chlorella vulgaris, Scendesmus quadricauda, S. platensis, Nannochloropsis oculata and Dunaliella tertiolecta can be cultivated on desalination brine. Also, the paper reviews the different applications of these types which may contribute to adding revenue that will reduce the cost of desalinated water.