Energy-effective elimination of harmful microcystins by a non-thermal plasma process

Some cyanobacteria produce toxins that threaten the aquatic ecosystem and human health. To prevent serious consequences, this study suggests a potential means of reducing microalgal toxins, microcystins (MCs) by applying non-thermal plasma (NTP) process. Quantified MC-RR, -LR, and -YR were drastically degraded and removed as much as 99.9% by reactive species generated by NTP. Results further demonstrate that NTP uses less energy based on estimated energy per order (EEO kWh m⁻³ order⁻¹) than other advanced oxidation processes and requires relatively less time to remove the MCs. As a result, NTP may be a viable management option for effective MC control during severe surface water blooms.