Work

Inactivation effect and mechanism of Microcystis aeruginosa by in-liquid pulsed discharge plasma

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The harmful algal bloom outbreaks damage river and lake ecosystems and impact the environments of water bodies. Microcystis aeruginosa ( M. aeruginosa ) is the predominant algal species in cyanobacteria blooms, releasing toxins into the water column during its growth and decay. The rapid degradation of toxins and efficient inactivation of M. aeruginosa is a technical challenge. This study explores the use of in-liquid pulsed discharge plasma (LPDP) for the inactivation of M. aeruginosa . The investigation includes changes in the inactivation ratio, Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) concentration, and the underlying inactivation mechanisms under various discharge conditions. This study achieved 100 % inactivation by plasma treatment for 20 min at a peak voltage of 30 kV and an electrode spacing of 7 mm, and the concentration of Chl-a was reduced from 1.08 mg/L to 0.14 mg/L (on the fourth day of re-culturing). The collaboration of ultraviolet light, strong electric fields, and reactive species (·O, H 2 O 2 , and O 3 ) generated during the discharge process induces apoptosis, reduces enzyme activity, and facilitates the removal of microcystins to realize green and efficient algal removal.

Source: Journal of Electrostatics

DOI: 10.1016/j.elstat.2025.104116

Authors: Yin Li, Yanbin Xin, Weibo Xiang, Qianyu Yang, Bing Sun

Institutions: Dalian Maritime University, China Three Gorges Corporation (China), Shenyang Agricultural University

Language: English

Topic: Plasma Applications and Diagnostics

Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,780