Algae removal

How do you prevent algae from growing?

Algae Growth Prevention

What are algae?

Algae represent a broad range of aquatic organisms that carry out photosynthesis. Many people are familiar with certain types of algae—for example, seaweeds (such as kelp or phytoplankton), pond scum, and algal blooms found in lakes. The word “algae” refers to numerous organisms that use light energy to produce oxygen and carbohydrates through the process of photosynthesis.

What do algae feed on?

In most cases, algae are photoautotrophs, which means they create their own food by converting sunlight and carbon dioxide into carbohydrates and oxygen. Essentially, they rely on light energy as their primary resource for sustenance.

How can we control algae?

When algae proliferate in a drinking water reservoir or an aerated lagoon, they can elevate TSS (total suspended solids) and CBOD5 (carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand), degrade water taste, clog filtration systems, and increase chemical treatment expenses. In municipal wastewater treatment, excess algae can lead to higher TSS and CBOD5 levels in effluent than would otherwise occur. Because algae impair water quality and offer no benefits in drinking water or wastewater lagoons, it is crucial for system designers and operators to minimize algal growth. Some species are harmful to humans and animals, making the water unfit for fish, swimming, and other uses.

A suitable cover prevents sunlight from penetrating the water column, inhibiting algae and other undesirable vegetation. Solid and modular floating covers have been utilized for decades to shade aerated lagoons. However, in systems with mechanical surface aerators, the entire lagoon shouldn’t be covered to ensure sufficient open surface area for aeration.

Modular floating algae covers effectively block sunlight, adapt to complex shapes, and accommodate fluctuating water levels, while still allowing space for most aeration systems. Installing a floating cover—like an Armor Ball® cover (91% coverage) or a Hexprotect® cover (99% coverage)—will prevent sunlight from reaching the water, thereby suppressing algae growth. Greater coverage results in more effective algae control, and hexagonal covers are particularly well-suited for this purpose.

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