A sound solution
The state of Florida is investigating the use of sound waves to target and kill algae in Lake Okeechobee. Last year, the state of emergency had to be declared in several counties following severe algal blooms throughout the state.
This year, Florida commissioners want to prevent algal bloom disasters by using a chemical-free solution that uses ultrasound technology to get rid of algal blooms. Lisa Brand, CTO of LG Sonic, was invited by the City of Miami to present this solution at the Smart Cities event. During the event, challenges and solutions to issues of resilience, climate change, stormwater management, and harmful algal blooms were discussed.
The sound waves developed by LG Sonic target and neutralise the algae, preventing them from growing and evolving to a blooming stage. These sound waves are harmless to humans, fishes, and other aquatic life. For each type of algae, such as Cyanobacteria, LG Sonic has a specific ‘song’ to target the algae.
Big data
By using real-time water quality monitoring and satellite data, LG Sonic is able to predict algal blooms days in advance. This allows the ultrasound technology to neutralize the algae before they become a problem. Based on the data from LG Sonic systems all over the world, LG Sonic has built a database of algae and water quality data which allow applying the right treatment for a specific type of algae at the right time.
This technology is already being used in more than 15 countries worldwide, including the US. The technology has helped American Water to successfully control algal blooms and eliminate chemical usage for their drinking water reservoir in New Jersey. They have ensured safe drinking water to their customers.
Saving Lake Okeechobee
For many years, Lake Okeechobee has been suffering from severe algal blooms. Impacting not only the lake itself, but also the waterways throughout the state. Commissioner, Brian Hamman is pushing for LG Sonic to be used at certain hot spots in Lake Okeechobee. Hamman hopes that LG Sonic’s buoys can be used as soon as possible.
