Summary
This experimental study addresses nutrient recovery from hydroponic greenhouse wastewater by cultivating microalgae as a circular agriculture solution. Desmodesmus sp. demonstrated superior growth performance when cultured in drainage wastewater from hydroponic tomato crops, with biomass yields of 1.8 g·L−1 achieved in columnar photobioreactors at industrial scale. The resulting microalgae biomass was subsequently processed through biocatalysis to produce plant biostimulants, suggesting a technically viable pathway for converting agricultural wastewater into a value-added product.
Regional applicability
The study was conducted in Spain with hydroponic tomato systems. Results may be applicable to United Kingdom protected horticulture, particularly intensive glasshouse tomato production, though local climate conditions, nutrient profiles of UK drainage wastewater, and regulatory frameworks for biostimulant approval would require validation before adoption.
Key measures
Optical density at 750 nm and 680 nm (OD750, OD680); biomass concentration (g·L−1); comparative performance across 0.5 L, 2 L, columnar photobioreactor (PBR), and raceway systems
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated the growth performance of three microalgae strains (Desmodesmus sp., Chlorella vulgaris, and Scenedesmus obliquus) cultured in hydroponic tomato drainage wastewater at laboratory and industrial scales, and assessed the potential of the resulting biomass for biostimulant production.
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