RAS | Salmon Producer

Moleaer Nanobubble Technology Reduces Suspended Solids, Sulfide and Turbidity in Post-Smolt Production

A commercial Atlantic salmon producer in Pargua, Puerto Montt, Chile, integrated Moleaer's Freya submersible nanobubble generator into its high-density post-smolt recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) to improve water quality and support fish welfare.

The facility recirculates approximately 98% of its process water, making effective management of suspended solids, biofilm and accumulated organic material critical to maintaining optimal culture conditions.

Moleaer Nanobubble Treatment Solution

Moleaer's Freya submersible nanobubble generator was installed in the system's main feeder channel to complement existing treatment and filtration processes.

During initial operation, nanobubble treatment released accumulated biofilm, particulate matter and organic material into the water column, where it was captured and removed through the existing rotary filtration system.

As accumulated material was removed, water quality improved across monitored parameters.

Results

Within the first 12 days of operation, the facility recorded significant water quality improvements:

• More than 70% reduction in total suspended solids (TSS), from approximately 17 mg/L to less than 5 mg/L.
• More than 50% reduction in sulfide, from approximately 20 mg/L to less than 10 mg/L.
• More than 50% reduction in turbidity, from approximately 4 mg/L to less than 2 mg/L.

These results demonstrate how nanobubble technology can complement existing RAS filtration and treatment infrastructure to improve water quality in highly recirculated aquaculture systems.

Improved Biofilm Management and Tank Sanitation

Freya was also incorporated into the facility's tank sanitation process alongside ozone treatment.

Operators observed that biofilm released more readily from tank surfaces, allowing sanitation to be completed more quickly. Foam containing organic matter and suspended solids was also observed as accumulated material was removed.

Supporting High-Density Salmon Production

By integrating Moleaer Nanobubble Technology with existing treatment processes, the producer improved the removal of accumulated organic material and maintained better water quality in its high-density post-smolt system.

These improvements support optimal culture conditions and fish welfare as aquaculture producers operate at higher stocking densities and water recirculation rates.

Interested in Improving Water Quality in Your RAS?

Connect with a Moleaer aquaculture expert to learn how nanobubble technology can improve water quality, manage biofilm and enhance RAS performance.