Water Treatment and Algal Biotechnology

The "Water Treatment and Algal Biotechnology" research group is led by Professor Amit Bhatnagar. The research group has expertise in wastewater treatment and resource recovery using (Nordic) microalgae and microalgal consortium and production of value-added products from algal biomass. The group members also focus on the synthesis of a variety of functional materials (e.g. biochar, nanocellulose, aerogels, functionalized clays and other nanomaterials / nanocomposites) for the removal of conventional and emerging pollutants / micropollutants / persistent chemicals from water and wastewater using different technologies (e.g. adsorption, advanced oxidation processes). 

Goals

The research group aims to develop eco-friendly, low-cost and effective solutions for wastewater treatment and closing the water loop by following the principles of sustainable development and circular bioeconomy. We investigate the potential of different microalgae (commercial as well as local species) and microalgal consortium for wastewater treatment, nutrients recovery, carbon capture and production of value-added products from algal biomass such as (biofuel and bioenergy, bioplastics, bio-pigments etc.). Synthesis of a variety of bio- and nanomaterials and their application in wastewater treatment is also one of the goals of the research group. Research is also currently underway to study the interactions between microalgae and synthetic polymers (e.g. microplastics).