Coimbra, Portugal, Oct. 2, 2024 (Lusa) - A project led by the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Coimbra (FCTUC) is testing the application of microalgae to remove pollutants from wastewater, using this biomass to produce bio-based articles.

Entitled NABIA (New Approach to Bioremediation using Algae), the project is led by FCTUC Chemistry Centre researchers Telma Encarnação and Abílio Sobral, the educational institution announced today in a statement sent to the Lusa news agency.

"This project addresses the need to find a potential solution to the problem of water pollution by emerging pollutants and proposes the decontamination of wastewater using microalgae, with an approach based on the generation of biomass and its respective economic valorisation," explains Telma Encarnação, quoted in the statement.

The research "focussed on the bioremediation of wastewater generated by transforming ophthalmic lenses in the optical industry, using partner companies as case studies".

"Since most of these materials are protected by patents and industrial secrets, we analysed their composition," he added.

The researchers began by identifying persistent environmental chemicals in wastewater sources and evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of using microalgae in the bioremediation of synthetic chemicals.

According to FCTUC, the experts are currently testing the feasibility of transforming biomass into innovative products, such as "green" ophthalmic lenses and a photobioreactor, optimising the process to maximise the biomaterial content of the microalgae.

"With NABIA, the aim is not only to solve emerging problems related to pollutants in wastewater but also to encourage sustainable economic development, promoting a circular economy through the valorisation of biological resources," concludes the researcher.

The project is supported by partner companies Farmi, Mlab, Moldetipo, Opticentro, and PTScience.

FYBP/ADB // ADB.

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