How to Control Algae Growth in Water Infrastructure and Wastewater Treatment Facilities
Algae is often perceived as harmless. But for wastewater treatment facilities and water infrastructure, the presence of algae can pose significant challenges. While these aquatic organisms play a role in our ecosystems, their uncontrolled growth within treatment facilities can lead to operational inefficiencies, increased costs, and water quality issues.
Understanding Algae and Its Impact on Water and Wastewater Infrastructure
Algae are diverse, photosynthetic organisms that flourish in water environments, needing sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to thrive.
During the photosynthesis process, algae produce oxygen, contributing to the planet’s oxygen supply. However, when algae grow excessively in wastewater treatment facilities or on water infrastructure, they create a blue-green film that can be more than just unsightly.
This film often accumulates in critical areas like clarifier launders and weirs, signaling a problem that needs attention. The primary concern here is the specific type of algae, such as blue-green algae or cyanobacteria, which can disrupt the water treatment process.
The Challenges of Algae Buildup
The challenges posed by algae growth are multifaceted. Here are just a few of the issues the presence of excessive algae can cause in water and wastewater treatment facilities.
Clogging and Flow Restrictions
Algae can obstruct pipes and pumps, leading to decreased flow rates and increased maintenance demands, which can result in unexpected downtime and higher operational costs.
Operational Inefficiencies
Excess algae can lead to a significant reduction in the overall efficiency of wastewater treatment processes. Facilities may find themselves expending more energy to achieve the same results—driving up operational costs.
Water Quality Complications
Algae can produce toxins and unpleasant odors, affecting the overall quality of treated water. This decrease in quality can lead to public health concerns and reduced compliance with regulatory standards.
Increased Sludge Production
Algae buildup contributes to additional sludge formation, complicating disposal processes and increasing operational challenges.
We sampled algae growth from one clarifier. Here's the microbial identification of sampled algal mat attached to the clarifying tank weirs.
Filamentous green algae Microspora
Epiphytic diatoms Synedra attached to Microspora
Epiphytic diatoms Gomphonema attached to Microspora
The Importance of Algae Control
Effective algae control is essential for water and wastewater treatment infrastructure. After implementing a comprehensive algae control strategy, facilities can experience a range of benefits.
Operational Efficiency
By controlling algae growth, facilities can enhance flow rates and reduce the burden on pumps and other equipment, leading to smoother and more efficient operations.
Cost Savings
A well-managed algae control strategy can minimize maintenance and labor costs, resulting in significant savings over time.
Improved Water Quality
Algae control contributes to better water clarity and quality, fostering a healthier environment for both ecosystems and communities.
Extended Equipment Lifespan
Regular management of algae minimizes wear and tear on equipment, prolonging its service life and reducing the need for premature replacements.
Current Algae Control Methods: What Works (and What Doesn’t)
Historically, various methods have been employed to combat algae growth in wastewater treatment facilities, including the following. However, keep in mind that each of these methods has its drawbacks—highlighting the need for a more efficient and sustainable solution.
Brush Systems
Some facilities utilize rotating brush systems that scrub surfaces to remove algae. While effective, these systems come with additional costs and maintenance requirements. Over time, they may also erode existing coatings, necessitating frequent repairs.
Chemical Treatments
Chemical agents can be introduced to kill algae, but this approach often leads to unintended consequences, such as promoting the growth of cyanobacteria due to reduced competition.
Manual Cleaning
Manual cleaning techniques, such as pressure washing, remain common but can be labor-intensive and time-consuming.
Physical Barriers
Covering water surfaces to block sunlight is another method, but it may not always be feasible or effective.
Introducing Sher-Loxane® 800: An Advanced Algae Control Solution
Sher-Loxane® 800 is an advanced polysiloxane coating engineered to address the specific challenges posed by algae in wastewater treatment environments. This innovative product not only combats algae growth but also offers a range of additional benefits that enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.
The unique formulation of Sher-Loxane® 800 creates a surface that actively deters biological growth. This characteristic has been validated through rigorous internal studies, demonstrating its effectiveness in preventing algae from establishing a foothold in critical areas of wastewater treatment facilities.
Easy Algae Removal
Facilities that have adopted Sher-Loxane® 800 report substantial reductions in cleaning times. Instead of spending extensive hours with pressure washers, maintenance crews can often complete cleanups in just a couple of hours using a standard garden hose. This efficiency translates to significant labor cost savings.
Durability and Corrosion Resistance
In addition to its algae-repelling properties, Sher-Loxane® 800 provides industry-leading corrosion resistance and durability. These protective qualities help extend the life cycle of water infrastructure, ensuring that facilities can maximize their investments over time.
Versatile Application
Sher-Loxane® 800 can be applied using spray, brush, or roller techniques, making it a versatile choice for different application needs. With a versatile application, the coating process is simplified, allowing for efficient project management.
5 Key Benefits of Sher-Loxane® 800
When it comes to combating algae growth in wastewater treatment facilities, the advantages of Sher-Loxane® 800 extend far beyond its ability to deter biological buildup. This advanced polysiloxane coating offers a range of benefits that contribute to operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and long-term asset protection.
1. High Performance
With a 90% volume solids formulation and low VOC emissions (less than 100 g/L), Sher-Loxane® 800 offers a high-performance solution that aligns with today’s environmental standards.
2. Improved Cleanability
The low surface tension of the coating enhances cleanability, ensuring that algae and other contaminants can be easily removed without extensive effort.
3. Cost-Effective Maintenance
Fewer coats are required per application, reducing product and labor costs while extending maintenance intervals. This streamlined process means facilities can allocate resources more efficiently and focus on core operations.
4. Aesthetic Retention
While aesthetics may not be the primary concern in wastewater treatment, Sher-Loxane® 800 maintains its color and gloss through exceptional atmospheric weathering, contributing to a professional appearance.
5. Corrosion Protection
The polysiloxane coating acts as a barrier, protecting underlying substrates from corrosion and chemical attack. The protective nature of SHER-LOXANE® 800 ensures long-term durability and reliability in harsh wastewater environments.
Real-World Impact: What Does Sher-Loxane® 800 Look Like on the Ground?
Numerous wastewater treatment facilities have adopted Sher-Loxane® 800 and have reported transformative results.
Facilities that previously struggled with excessive algae buildup and the associated maintenance costs have seen marked improvements in operational efficiency. By investing in this innovative coating, facilities can achieve a cleaner environment while significantly reducing the time and resources spent on algae management.
Shop Industry-Leading Algae Control Coatings at Sherwin-Williams
Sherwin-Williams is the leading provider of coatings and linings for the water and wastewater industry. Our line of high performance water and wastewater coatings, including Sher-Loxane® 800, offers superior resistance to corrosion, impacts, abrasions, chemical attacks, and algae growth. With our durable, flexible, and long-lasting coating solutions, you can extend the service life of your water and wastewater infrastructure and experience cost savings for years to come.
Contact a Sherwin-Williams representative today to learn more about our strong, low-maintenance, anti-corrosive, and chemical-resistant coating and lining products for water and wastewater facilities.
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