FURI | Fall 2025

Ozone Nanobubbles for Algae Control in Freshwater and Brackish Water Systems

Harmful algal blooms release toxins that threaten human and aquatic life. Conventional mitigation methods often rely on chemical treatments that persist in the environment, causing secondary contamination. Ozone nanobubbles offer a cleaner, more sustainable alternative by rapidly converting ozone to oxygen. Their nanoscale size offers high surface area and enhanced reactivity, enabling efficient and selective oxidation of algal cells and organic matter. This study evaluates the performance of ozone nanobubbles in controlling Microcystis aeruginosa populations, a widespread and toxic cyanobacteria in freshwater, by examining their ability to suppress algal growth, degrade toxins, and improve water quality through precise ozone treatment.