Vermiculite as a sustainable alternative for ammonia removal in aquaculture: Comparison with zeolite and activated carbon
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5965/22381171e26791Keywords:
Adsorbents, Aquaculture, Ammonium removal, SustainabilityAbstract
Vermiculite was assessed for efficacy in removing ammonium compounds in an aquaculture context. Vermiculite performance was then compared with that of zeolite and activated carbon, which are commonly used as adsorbents in this process. Adsorption tests were carried out with adsorbent dosages of 22, 34, 46 g.L-1 at total ammonium nitrogen (TAN) concentration of 3 mg.L-1 for 5, 15, 25 and 35 minutes. All adsorbents removed ammonium ions from the water rapidly, with adsorption equilibrium being reached in less than 5 minutes in all tests. Zeolite and vermiculite showed higher removal efficiency and adsorption capacity than activated carbon, and both zeolite and vermiculite reduced the TAN concentration to less than 1 mg.L-1. It is estimated that 400 grams of zeolite and vermiculite will be required for efficient removal of ammonium in aquariums up to 20-40 L. In addition, vermiculite and zeolite are more economical, costing less to remove ammonium than activated carbon. Combined with the reactivation capacity of the adsorbents, zeolite and vermiculite are viable alternatives from an economic and environmental standpoint.
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