Water Quality, Waste-Solids Dewatering, and Seawater Filtration at a Zero-Exchange Recirculating Aquaculture Farm

Due to the depletion of natural fish stocks, the aquaculture industry must build larger land-based farms to meet the growing demand for seafood. Currently, the availability of clean, inland fresh water is limiting the size of farms so the only way the industry can expand these farms is by reducing the water exchange. Cooke Aquaculture Inc. is currently constructing a state of the art zero-exchange system to produce salmon smolts. This research project aims to improve the understanding of zero-exchange systems by exploring three areas which require further research. The water quality will be monitored throughout the new facility’s first production cycle to determine if metal ions or dissolved organic matter will accumulate to a harmful level. Additionally, a centrifuge along with different dosages of chemical and physical conditioners will be used to determine if a centrifuge can dewater aquaculture sludge more effectively than equipment currently used in the industry. Lastly, a membrane filtration system will be designed, and tested to determine if seawater can be effectively sterilized and desalinated so it can be used as a water source.

Faculty Supervisor:

Michel F Couturier

Student:

Partner:

Kelly Cove Salmon Ltd

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of New Brunswick

Program: