Within a body of water, ...

Within a body of water, physicochemical parameters, water ow, and microorganisms present can differ. The type of algae can vary and even change during the season. To use ultrasonic waves effectively, it is important that specific ultrasonic frequencies be used. LG Sonic uses scientifically proven ultrasonic frequencies to control many types of algae. The size of an algae cell, its morphology, and the general water quality determine the frequency necessary to control algae. It is therefore very important to monitor the water quality (Chlorophyll a, Phycocyanin, Turbidity, DO, pH, Redox, temp) to predict an algal bloom and to identify what kind of algae is growing and effectively base the ultrasonic treatment on that.

The MPC-Buoy provides a complete overview of the water quality by collecting the following parameters every 10 minutes: Chlorophyll α (green algae), Phycocyanin (blue-green algae), pH, Turbidity, Dissolved Oxygen, and Temperature. The collected data is delivered in real time via radio, GPRS, or 3G to a web-based software platform. Based on a developed algorithm, LG Sonic is able to modify the ultrasonic program to the specific water conditions and predict an algal bloom a few days ahead. Depending on the information received, the ultrasonic program can be modi ed to address the water conditions and type of algae present. In this way, it is possible to eliminate existing algae and prevent the growth of new algae. Each MPC-Buoy system can control algae in areas up to 500m/1600ft in diameter.

The ultrasonic sound waves create an ultrasonic pressure in the top layer of the water. This ultrasonic sound barrier prevents the algae from rising to the surface and absorbing light for photosynthesis. Therefore, algae are no longer capable of growing further. The algae will die while the cell wall remains intact, preventing the release of toxins from the algae into the water. The algae will sink to the bottom of the water reservoir, where it is degraded by the bacteria present.

The University of Portsmouth, UK; UNICET Catania, Italy; and BOKU, Austria found that LG Sonic units are safe for fish. LG Sonic devices have been tested to determine their effect on zooplankton, and no negative effect was found.