Impact of Al₂O₃ nanopowders characterised by various physicochemical properties on growth of green alga Scenedesmus quadricauda

Abstract

This study estimates the influence of five Al₂O₃ nanopowders on the growth of Scenedesmus quadricauda depending on the physical and chemical properties of the alumina nanoparticles and on the concentration of the nanopowder. The agglomeration and crystallisation levels of the alumina nanopowders as well as the zeta potential, the conductivity and the pH of nanopowders-containing growth media are considered. The strongest algal growth inhibiting effect was accompanied by the highest degree of agglomeration and the highest crystallisation level as well as the smallest specific surface area.

Keywords:

• Alumina
• Nanoparticles
• Algae