Studies on the Effect of Pulsed Magnetic Field on the Productivity of Algae Grown in Dye Industry Effluent

Abstract

Magnetic fields are capable of eliciting in vivo and in vitro effects in many biological systems. Increasing attention is being directed towards bio-electromagnetic stimulation using the low frequency pulsed magnetic fields (PMF). Currently, microalgae have been considered to be the most promising candidates for biomass production. PMF may affect organisms in both negative and positive manner which includes acceleration of growth and metabolism. The present study deals with the studies on the effect of pulsed magnetic field (PMF) on the productivity selected micro algae Desmococcus sp. grown in the dye industry effluent. Desmococcus sp. was grown in photo bioreactors (1L) with a pulsed magnetic field facility. The magnetic field is set in a circular form from which the solenoid coil system set to a highly homogenous sinusoidal magnetic field intensity of 3mg for a period of 4hrs duration per day for 12 days. Aeration and light (intensity 2000-3000lux) have been provided for 12hr per day. Division rate, growth studies and physicochemical parameters have been analyzed that gave positive results by reducing the BOD, COD and the nitrates level in the effluent. By the end of the 12th day the effluent colour changed and a two fold increase in the algal biomass productivity in the dye effluent treated with PMF exposure is observed.