Effects of flashing light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on membrane fouling in a reciprocal membrane photobioreactor (RMPBR) to assess nitrate and phosphate removal from whey wastewater

Light is one of the most critical factors for the growth of microalgae; therefore, optimization and accessibility of light improve productivity and wastewater nutrient removal is important. The flashing light effect allows microalgae to use light effectively through intermittent exposure. Nutrient assimilation and membrane fouling were considered in a reciprocal membrane photobioreactor (RMPBR) and an LED flashing light was provided as a source of illumination. The objective of this study was to bridge the gap between light delivery and RMPBR performance. In this connection, we examined flashing lights with frequencies of 1 Hz and 1000 Hz at a constant duty cycle of 60% along with continuous light. Regarding the effect of the flashing light on RMPBR, the cells which acclimated to flashing light of 1000 Hz resulted in maximum removal of nitrate (97%) and phosphate (70%). However, the culture with the low frequency of 1 Hz was only able to remove nitrate and phosphate up to 68% and 47%, respectively. Furthermore, the reactor with 1-Hz flashing light frequency was fouled earlier within 84 h thereby reaching the highest pore-blocking. Proteins and carbohydrates were recognized as a major cause of fouling in the low-frequency flashing light. We conclude that high-frequency flashing light (1000 Hz) could be an effective light condition for nutrient uptake in wastewater treatment.

Automated summary

This study examined the effects of different frequencies of LED flashing light on RMPBR performance, revealing that high-frequency 1000 Hz flashing light can enhance the removal of nitrate and phosphate, while low-frequency 1 Hz flashing light is prone to membrane fouling.