Description:BIOREACTOR SYSTEM FOR THE REMOVAL OF HEAVY METAL POLLUTION FROM WATER
Field of the Invention
[0001] The present disclosure relates to water purification systems, specifically a bioreactor system configured for continuous removal of heavy metal pollution using microbial bioremediation.
Background
[0002] The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] Heavy metal pollution in water sources represents a critical environmental and public health concern, with sources ranging from industrial effluents and mining activities to improper disposal of electronic waste. Traditional methods for remediation of heavy metals in aqueous systems include chemical precipitation, ion exchange, membrane filtration, and adsorption using activated carbon. While these technologies are effective under controlled settings, they often suffer from high operational costs, secondary sludge generation, and limited selectivity toward specific metal ions. Chemical precipitation, for instance, results in large volumes of metal-laden sludge requiring further disposal, while membrane filtration systems are prone to fouling and require frequent maintenance.
[0004] Bioremediation, specifically using microbial species capable of reducing, adsorbing, or bioaccumulating metal ions, has been recognized as a promising alternative due to its low energy footprint, specificity, and adaptability to in-situ treatment. However, prior art bioreactors relying on microbial remediation often lack robustness, fail under fluctuating influent concentrations, or require externally seeded microbial colonies without support structure optimization. Additionally, the absence of real-time monitoring and automated nutrient feedback limits the efficacy of these bioreactors in dynamically changing water quality conditions. Thus, there remains a need for an integrated, modular bioreactor system capable of hosting active microbial populations, sustaining optimized aeration and nutrient delivery, and responding autonomously to fluctuating heavy metal concentrations in contaminated water environments.
[0005] All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.
Summary
[0006] Various objects, features, and advantages of the disclosed subject matter can be more fully appreciated with reference to the following detailed description of the disclosed subject matter when considered in connection with the following drawings, in which like reference numerals identify like elements.
[0007] The present disclosure relates to water purification systems, specifically a bioreactor system configured for continuous removal of heavy metal pollution using microbial bioremediation.
[0008] The present disclosure provides a bioreactor system for the removal of heavy metal pollution from water, incorporating structural, fluidic, and control assemblies that function collectively to support biological remediation processes. The system comprises a containment vessel that houses a microbial substrate support matrix embedded with pre-selected bioremediation agents capable of metal ion reduction and adsorption. Contaminated water is directed into the vessel through an inlet conduit and passed through the substrate matrix, enabling interaction between pollutants and microbial colonies.
[0009] A controlled aeration module positioned beneath the matrix ensures sufficient oxygen delivery for microbial metabolism without inducing excessive turbulence, achieved through a regulated compressor-driven gas supply. A fluid circulation system with both inlet and outlet conduits is driven by a peristaltic pump, maintaining flow rate within parameters optimized for hydraulic retention. The containment vessel is equipped with internal baffles to create a serpentine flow path, improving contact time between water and microbial agents.
[00010] The system further includes a monitoring subsystem comprising electrochemical sensors arrayed at different depths to continuously detect concentration levels of target heavy metals. Based on sensor feedback, a dosing unit introduces microbial activators or nutrients through solenoid-actuated valves, governed by a programmable microcontroller. An optional sediment extraction conduit located at the vessel’s base allows removal of precipitated metal complexes, maintaining operational efficiency without microbial layer disturbance. The matrix is designed using removable trays that facilitate targeted cleaning or reseeding while the rest of the system remains active.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[00011] The features and advantages of the present disclosure would be more clearly understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
[00012] FIG. 1 illustrates a system architecture diagram of a bioreactor system for the removal of heavy metal pollution from water, showcasing the structural and control modules integrated within the containment vessel and peripheral control units.
[00013] FIG. 2 presents a method flow diagram depicting the operational sequence of steps followed by the bioreactor system during an active treatment cycle, including contaminant intake, microbial interaction, aeration, monitoring, feedback-based dosing, and discharge.
[00014] FIG. 3 depicts a data flow diagram showing the interaction between sensor data acquisition, microcontroller-based logic processing, dosing control decisions, and overall system feedback regulation.
Detailed Description
[00015] The following is a detailed description of exemplary embodiments to illustrate the principles of the invention. The embodiments are provided to illustrate aspects of the invention, but the invention is not limited to any embodiment. The scope of the invention encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalent; it is limited only by the claims.
[00016] In view of the many possible embodiments to which the principles of the present discussion may be applied, it should be recognized that the embodiments described herein with respect to the drawing figures are meant to be illustrative only and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the claims. Therefore, the techniques as described herein contemplate all such embodiments as may come within the scope of the following claims and equivalents thereof.
[00017] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The use of the same reference numbers in different instances in the description and the figures may indicate similar or identical items.
[00018] Pursuant to the "Detailed Description" section herein, whenever an element is explicitly associated with a specific numeral for the first time, such association shall be deemed consistent and applicable throughout the entirety of the "Detailed Description" section, unless otherwise expressly stated or contradicted by the context.
[00019] The present disclosure relates to water purification systems, specifically a bioreactor system configured for continuous removal of heavy metal pollution using microbial bioremediation.
[00020] Pursuant to the "Detailed Description" section herein, whenever an element is explicitly associated with a specific numeral for the first time, such association shall be deemed consistent and applicable throughout the entirety of the "Detailed Description" section, unless otherwise expressly stated or contradicted by the context.
[00021] FIG. 1 illustrates the structural layout and system architecture of the bioreactor system for removing heavy metal pollution from contaminated water. The diagram delineates the spatial configuration of primary treatment and support modules within and around the containment vessel. The containment vessel houses the microbial substrate support matrix, which comprises porous trays embedded with metal-reducing microbial colonies. The vessel is fluidically interfaced with an inlet conduit, which channels untreated water into the structure, and an outlet conduit that releases treated water. A peristaltic pump regulates hydraulic retention time by governing the inflow and outflow rates. Positioned beneath the matrix lies a controlled aeration module composed of a compressor, manifold, and diffuser set, which ensures stable delivery of oxygen-rich air into the microbial zone without disturbing the physical structure of the biofilm. Surrounding this setup, a sediment extraction conduit allows removal of accumulated precipitates through a basal outlet valve. External to the vessel, a sensor array interfaced with a microcontroller continuously monitors heavy metal ion concentrations at different depths. The microcontroller is operatively coupled to a feedback-regulated dosing unit which activates solenoid valves to release microbial activators or nutrients. This integrated architecture permits real-time, autonomous remediation under variable contaminant loading conditions while preserving the bioreactor’s microbial integrity. In an embodiment, a containment vessel is provided, configured to receive and retain water containing heavy metal pollutants. Said containment vessel is constructed using non-reactive thermoplastic material and includes an internal anti-fouling coating to resist microbial biofilm formation. The vessel may be configured in cylindrical, rectangular, or cuboidal form depending on the target site, and possesses structural rigidity to withstand hydrostatic pressures during continuous water inflow. An inlet conduit is affixed near an upper region of the vessel wall, facilitating regulated entry of contaminated water. An outlet conduit is positioned distal to the inlet, permitting treated water to exit after having passed through the internal components.
[00022] A microbial substrate support matrix is positioned centrally within the containment vessel and is configured to house microbial agents selected for their capacity to biosorb, bioaccumulate, or enzymatically reduce metal ions. Such matrix comprises a porous polymeric lattice, optionally formed of polyurethane, polyethylene glycol-modified carriers, or chitosan beads, that allows colonization by metal-reducing bacteria such as Shewanella oneidensis or Pseudomonas putida. These carriers are immobilized within modular trays or racks that are spatially arranged to maintain laminar water movement while preventing channeling.
[00023] A fluid circulation assembly is integrated with the containment vessel, comprising an inlet pump—preferably a peristaltic pump—and an outlet pump or gravity-driven outlet channel. This arrangement ensures consistent flow through the matrix, with the hydraulic retention time being dynamically adjustable by regulating the input flow rate. The system supports continuous and batch modes of operation, with batch mode facilitating periodic saturation-desorption cycles beneficial in certain metal species remediation.
[00024] To support microbial metabolic function, a controlled aeration module is provided, comprising a compressor unit, a gas manifold, and aeration diffusers located beneath the microbial matrix. The compressor supplies oxygen-enriched air or alternate gases such as nitrogen in response to environmental needs. Diffusers distribute the gas in fine bubbles, preventing excessive agitation while ensuring dissolved oxygen concentrations remain within optimal biological activity ranges. In pulsed operation mode, timed bursts of gas improve vertical mixing without disrupting biofilm layers.
[00025] A monitoring subsystem is embedded within the vessel, comprising electrochemical or optical sensors capable of detecting heavy metal ion concentrations such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, or mercury. These sensors are placed at varying heights within the vessel to capture stratified contaminant profiles, offering greater insight into biofilm performance and flow distribution. The sensors communicate with a central microcontroller, which processes concentration data and compares it to predefined setpoints.
[00026] Upon detection of concentration deviations, a feedback-regulated dosing unit is activated. Said dosing unit comprises reservoirs of microbial activators, carbon sources, or micronutrient solutions coupled with solenoid-controlled valves. The microcontroller selectively opens these valves, releasing specific volumes into the containment vessel through dedicated injection ports. This closed-loop control supports sustained microbial viability even under variable influent water quality conditions.
[00027] A sediment extraction conduit is located at the basal region of the containment vessel, oriented diagonally to facilitate gravitational sediment accumulation near the opening. Periodically, this conduit is actuated—manually or through a motorized valve—to discharge precipitated metal complexes or biomass detritus into a separate holding tank without halting bioreactor operation. The location of the outlet ensures minimal impact on active microbial zones.
[00028] The microbial substrate support matrix is housed in modular trays that can be individually removed using lifting handles or guide rails. During maintenance or reseeding operations, a single tray may be extracted and replaced without disturbing adjacent colonies or disrupting ongoing water treatment. Tray orientation is maintained using alignment channels integrated into the vessel walls.
[00029] In a first alternative embodiment, the bioreactor is configured for use in decentralized rural settings. The aeration module is replaced with a solar-powered passive oxygenator using venturi tubes that rely on gravitational water flow for gas mixing. This eliminates reliance on electrical compressors, making the system viable in off-grid applications.
[00030] In a second embodiment, the monitoring subsystem is enhanced using wireless sensor modules that transmit data via low-power protocols to a centralized dashboard, facilitating remote performance tracking and trend analysis. These sensors are powered by energy-harvesting devices embedded in the vessel walls, reducing maintenance associated with battery replacement.
[00031] In a third embodiment, the dosing unit incorporates machine learning algorithms trained on historical performance data to forecast nutrient needs and anticipate microbial stress. The dosing schedule is modulated preemptively to accommodate seasonal variations in contaminant profiles, improving long-term stability and throughput.
[00032] In each embodiment, operational flows are segmented into three main loops—fluid flow loop for hydraulic control, gas delivery loop for metabolic support, and feedback loop for nutrient regulation. These loops interoperate under programmable logic, enabling the bioreactor to function adaptively across diverse water quality scenarios and contaminant types. The integrated design allows modular scaling by adding or paralleling containment vessels based on volumetric capacity needs.
[00033]
[00034] FIG. 2 depicts the procedural flow of the treatment cycle executed by the bioreactor system from the initiation of contaminated water intake to the discharge of remediated effluent. The process commences with fluid intake through the inlet conduit, where a peristaltic pump modulates the flow rate based on predefined retention parameters. The water flows through internal baffles creating a serpentine path that maximizes contact time with the microbial substrate matrix embedded with biologically active colonies. Simultaneously, the aeration module injects oxygen at controlled intervals into the lower strata of the matrix, stimulating microbial metabolic pathways responsible for heavy metal ion reduction and adsorption. Electrochemical sensors positioned at various depths gather real-time data on metal ion concentrations and transmit the signals to the embedded microcontroller. The microcontroller evaluates deviations from threshold levels and actuates the dosing module to introduce nutrients or activators accordingly. Once the water completes interaction with the microbial environment and reaches acceptable purity levels, it is discharged through the outlet conduit. Periodically, sediment build-up is evacuated through the sediment extraction conduit without halting the treatment cycle. This flow-based operational routine ensures robust remediation with minimal manual intervention and stable microbial performance across treatment cycles.
[00035] FIG. 3 illustrates a data flow diagram highlighting the bidirectional exchange of signals and process logic across the sensing, control, and actuation components within the bioreactor system. The diagram begins with the sensor array comprising electrochemical probes that continuously measure heavy metal concentrations within the containment vessel. These sensors are configured to transmit analog or digital signals to the embedded microcontroller. Upon receipt, the microcontroller executes logic-based analysis comparing input data with stored threshold values. Depending on the variance, the logic path branches either toward a passive state or an active feedback response. In the event of threshold deviation, the microcontroller dispatches command signals to the solenoid valve actuators in the dosing unit. Nutrient or microbial enhancer fluids are released proportionally into the containment vessel via the dosing conduit. Concurrently, real-time status updates are logged and optionally transmitted to an external monitoring interface for audit and performance evaluation. This closed-loop data handling ensures that the system autonomously maintains biologically viable conditions conducive for remediation while dynamically adapting to contaminant fluctuations.
[00036] Further, while operations are depicted in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Likewise, while several specific implementation details are contained in the above discussions, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the subject matter described herein, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular embodiments. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable sub-combination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or variation of a sub-combination.
[00037] The term “memory,” as used herein relates to a volatile or persistent medium, such as a magnetic disk, or optical disk, in which a computer can store data or software for any duration. Optionally, the memory is non-volatile mass storage such as physical storage media. Furthermore, a single memory may encompass and in a scenario wherein computing system is distributed, the processing, memory and/or storage capability may be distributed as well.
[00038] Throughout the present disclosure, the term ‘server’ relates to a structure and/or module that include programmable and/or non-programmable components configured to store, process and/or share information. Optionally, the server includes any arrangement of physical or virtual computational entities capable of enhancing information to perform various computational tasks.
[00039] Throughout the present disclosure, the term “network” relates to an arrangement of interconnected programmable and/or non-programmable components that are configured to facilitate data communication between one or more electronic devices and/or databases, whether available or known at the time of filing or as later developed. Furthermore, the network may include, but is not limited to, one or more peer-to-peer network, a hybrid peer-to-peer network, local area networks (LANs), radio access networks (RANs), metropolitan area networks (MANS), wide area networks (WANs), all or a portion of a public network such as the global computer network known as the Internet, a private network, a cellular network and any other communication system or systems at one or more locations.
[00040] Throughout the present disclosure, the term “process”* relates to any collection or set of instructions executable by a computer or other digital system so as to configure the computer or the digital system to perform a task that is the intent of the process.
[00041] Throughout the present disclosure, the term ‘Artificial intelligence (AI)’ as used herein relates to any mechanism or computationally intelligent system that combines knowledge, techniques, and methodologies for controlling a bot or other element within a computing environment. Furthermore, the artificial intelligence (AI) is configured to apply knowledge and that can adapt it-self and learn to do better in changing environments. Additionally, employing any computationally intelligent technique, the artificial intelligence (AI) is operable to adapt to unknown or changing environment for better performance. The artificial intelligence (AI) includes fuzzy logic engines, decision-making engines, preset targeting accuracy levels, and/or programmatically intelligent software.

Claims
I/We Claim:
CLAIM 1
A bioreactor system for the removal of heavy metal pollution from water, comprising:
 a containment vessel configured to retain a contaminated water inflow;
 a microbial substrate support matrix disposed within said containment vessel and structured to retain bioremediation agents selected for metal ion adsorption;
 a fluid circulation assembly including an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit positioned to direct water flow through said microbial substrate support matrix;
 a controlled aeration module comprising a plurality of gas inlets positioned beneath said microbial substrate support matrix and a compressor unit configured to deliver oxygen-enriched air;
 a monitoring subsystem comprising at least one sensor assembly configured to detect real-time concentrations of target heavy metal ions within said containment vessel;
 and a feedback-regulated dosing unit configured to introduce supplemental nutrients or microbial activators into said containment vessel based on detected sensor data.
CLAIM 2
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said microbial substrate support matrix comprises a porous lattice of inert polymeric carriers impregnated with metal-reducing bacterial colonies.
CLAIM 3
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said containment vessel includes an internal baffle arrangement positioned to establish a serpentine water flow path across said microbial substrate support matrix.
CLAIM 4
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said aeration module is further configured to deliver controlled pulses of gas at predefined intervals to enhance microbial metabolic activity without inducing turbulence.
CLAIM 5
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said monitoring subsystem includes a plurality of electrochemical sensors arrayed at different vertical levels within said containment vessel to detect stratified heavy metal ion concentrations.
CLAIM 6
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said feedback-regulated dosing unit comprises a microcontroller operatively coupled to said sensor assembly and configured to actuate solenoid-controlled valves for nutrient release based on threshold deviation detection.
CLAIM 7
The bioreactor system of claim 1, further comprising a sediment extraction conduit disposed at a basal region of said containment vessel and configured to intermittently discharge accumulated precipitates without disrupting microbial layer stability.
CLAIM 8
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said fluid circulation assembly includes a peristaltic pump configured to regulate volumetric flow rate through said microbial substrate support matrix in accordance with hydraulic retention time optimization parameters.
CLAIM 9
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said microbial substrate support matrix is housed within a modular tray system configured to allow individual removal, replacement, or re-seeding of microbial colonies without ceasing overall system operation.
CLAIM 10
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said containment vessel is constructed of non-reactive thermoplastic material lined with an anti-fouling internal coating to resist biofilm adhesion and prolong maintenance cycles.

BIOREACTOR SYSTEM FOR THE REMOVAL OF HEAVY METAL POLLUTION FROM WATER
Abstract
A bioreactor system for the removal of heavy metal pollution from water includes a containment vessel with a microbial substrate support matrix, a fluid circulation assembly for directing contaminated water through the matrix, and a controlled aeration module for sustaining microbial activity. The system incorporates a monitoring subsystem with sensors to detect metal ion concentrations and a feedback-regulated dosing unit to deliver nutrients or activators based on real-time data. A modular tray system supports microbial colonies, while an integrated sediment extraction conduit facilitates precipitate removal. A microcontroller governs nutrient delivery in response to detected thresholds, enabling autonomous remediation. , Claims:Claims
I/We Claim:
CLAIM 1
A bioreactor system for the removal of heavy metal pollution from water, comprising:
 a containment vessel configured to retain a contaminated water inflow;
 a microbial substrate support matrix disposed within said containment vessel and structured to retain bioremediation agents selected for metal ion adsorption;
 a fluid circulation assembly including an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit positioned to direct water flow through said microbial substrate support matrix;
 a controlled aeration module comprising a plurality of gas inlets positioned beneath said microbial substrate support matrix and a compressor unit configured to deliver oxygen-enriched air;
 a monitoring subsystem comprising at least one sensor assembly configured to detect real-time concentrations of target heavy metal ions within said containment vessel;
 and a feedback-regulated dosing unit configured to introduce supplemental nutrients or microbial activators into said containment vessel based on detected sensor data.
CLAIM 2
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said microbial substrate support matrix comprises a porous lattice of inert polymeric carriers impregnated with metal-reducing bacterial colonies.
CLAIM 3
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said containment vessel includes an internal baffle arrangement positioned to establish a serpentine water flow path across said microbial substrate support matrix.
CLAIM 4
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said aeration module is further configured to deliver controlled pulses of gas at predefined intervals to enhance microbial metabolic activity without inducing turbulence.
CLAIM 5
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said monitoring subsystem includes a plurality of electrochemical sensors arrayed at different vertical levels within said containment vessel to detect stratified heavy metal ion concentrations.
CLAIM 6
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said feedback-regulated dosing unit comprises a microcontroller operatively coupled to said sensor assembly and configured to actuate solenoid-controlled valves for nutrient release based on threshold deviation detection.
CLAIM 7
The bioreactor system of claim 1, further comprising a sediment extraction conduit disposed at a basal region of said containment vessel and configured to intermittently discharge accumulated precipitates without disrupting microbial layer stability.
CLAIM 8
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said fluid circulation assembly includes a peristaltic pump configured to regulate volumetric flow rate through said microbial substrate support matrix in accordance with hydraulic retention time optimization parameters.
CLAIM 9
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said microbial substrate support matrix is housed within a modular tray system configured to allow individual removal, replacement, or re-seeding of microbial colonies without ceasing overall system operation.
CLAIM 10
The bioreactor system of claim 1, wherein said containment vessel is constructed of non-reactive thermoplastic material lined with an anti-fouling internal coating to resist biofilm adhesion and prolong maintenance cycles.