Scalable and environmentally sensitive algae management tech: H2O2 dosing

An experimental plan for assessing the feasibility of a larger hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) dosing trial at Melbourne Water’s Western Treatment Plant (WTP) treated effluent lagoons. A report was previously supplied to Melbourne Water in which oxidation options for WTP were evaluated using a Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis which identified H₂O₂ as the most appropriated oxidant.

 The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of H₂O₂ as an algaecide for the control of cyanobacteria within a managed water body. The feasibility of this treatment approach will be determined chiefly by the ability for peroxide to effectively reduce microbial activity, and the quantities required for effective treatment. This trial will provide additional insights including H₂O₂ decomposition rates, appropriate dosing quantities/ratios, resulting cyanotoxin release, and impacts on microbiota diversity. Sampling will target surface scums and water residing above the sludge/sediment layer. The initial phase of the trial will investigate oxidation efficacy within lab-based testing, while subsequent phases (to be planned in future projects) will trial pilot scale oxidation.