Rapid filtration technology using a copper-based microfiltration membrane for high-concentration algae-laden water purification

XIN Yifan; ZHU Tingting; SUN Kaichen; YUAN Jiayi; ZHU Zongqiang; SUN Meng

doi:10.13205/j.hjgc.202602007

Volume 44 Issue 2

Feb. 2026

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XIN Yifan, ZHU Tingting, SUN Kaichen, YUAN Jiayi, ZHU Zongqiang, SUN Meng. Rapid filtration technology using a copper-based microfiltration membrane for high-concentration algae-laden water purification[J]. ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING , 2026, 44(2): 57-66. doi: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202602007

Citation:

XIN Yifan, ZHU Tingting, SUN Kaichen, YUAN Jiayi, ZHU Zongqiang, SUN Meng. Rapid filtration technology using a copper-based microfiltration membrane for high-concentration algae-laden water purification[J]. ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING , 2026, 44(2): 57-66. doi: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202602007

Citation:

XIN Yifan, ZHU Tingting, SUN Kaichen, YUAN Jiayi, ZHU Zongqiang, SUN Meng. Rapid filtration technology using a copper-based microfiltration membrane for high-concentration algae-laden water purification[J]. ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING , 2026, 44(2): 57-66. doi: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202602007

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Rapid filtration technology using a copper-based microfiltration membrane for high-concentration algae-laden water purification

doi: 10.13205/j.hjgc.202602007

1. Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control Theory and Technology, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541006, China;
2. Water Quality and Water Ecology Research Center, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China;
3. School of Environment, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130117, China;
4. School of Science and Engineering, Chinese University of Hong Kong(Shenzhen), Shenzhen 518172, China;
5. Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China

Received Date: 2025-01-11
Available Online: 2026-04-11
Publish Date: 2026-02-01

Abstract

Abstract

Eutrophication and algal blooms are global environmental concerns. While traditional copper-based algicides are effective and cost-efficient， they cause secondary copper ion pollution and degrade water quality due to the accumulation of dead algae. This study introduces an innovative method for simultaneous algae removal and water purification using a copper-based microfiltration membrane that enables rapid treatment and facilitates high-quality water reuse. Through the oxidation effect of copper ions released at the membrane-water interface， the copper-based microfiltration membrane achieved 100% algae removal without additional chemicals. It combined physical interception with catalytic degradation， effectively eliminating a wide range of pollutants. The system removed 98.87% of turbidity while reducing ultraviolet absorbance， microcystin-LR concentrations， and total organic carbon by 28.54%， 42.9%， and 36.8%， respectively. Compared to traditional polymeric microfiltration membranes， the copper-based membrane demonstrated markedly enhanced efficiency in removing organic contaminants， significantly improving treated water quality and reuse potential. Through rapid hydraulic backwashing， the copper-based membrane effectively recovered its initial flux and maintained a consistent water flux of 65525.65 L/（m²·h）. The copper ion concentration in the filtrate remained at approximately 1.22×10^-5 mol/L， well within the safety limits for drinking water. This study provides valuable insights for sustainable water treatment and aquatic ecosystem protection.
- eutrophication,
- algae removal,
- microfiltration membrane,
- microcystin-LR,
- organic matter,
- turbidity

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References(59)

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