Microalgae removal from Ghrib Dam (Ain Defla, Algeria) water by electroflotation using stainless steel electrodes

This study investigates the microalgae removal from Ghrib Dam water by electroflotation (EF) using stainless steel electrodes. The results obtained show that EF is excellent in microalgae removal (~100%). The effects of parameters such as: current density (i), initial pH and distance between electrodes (d) are examined. The optimal conditions are: i = 170 A m(-2) and d = 1 cm during 15 min at pH 7.8. Future research must focus on microalgae lysis, toxin release and degradation due to EF treatment. Precautions must be taken such as reducing the applied voltage, increasing the residence time in the electrochemical device and adding a powdered activated carbon adsorption stage.