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Optimization of lab-scale harvesting-dewatering process of Dunaliella salina for industrial exploitation in Sabkhet Sidi El Heni saltworks, Tunisia
 
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1
Développement chimique, galénique et pharmacologique des médicaments «LR12ES09», Faculty of Pharmacy of Monastir, University of Monastir, Avicenna Street, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
 
2
Saida S. A. Company, Avenue of the Environment, Maatmeur, 5012 Monastir, Tunisia
 
 
Publication date: 2026-03-04
 
 
Corresponding author
Hanene Medini   

Développement chimique, galénique et pharmacologique des médicaments «LR12ES09», Faculty of Pharmacy of Monastir, University of Monastir, Avicenna Street, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
 
 
Ecol. Eng. Environ. Technol. 2026; 4
 
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Abstract : Natural flotation of D. salina is uncommon phenomenon, but in saline environments, this microalga acquires a unique flotation capacity due to its high carotenoid and lipid content, giving it a lower density compared to the highly saline brine density. Laboratory-scale evaluations of this flotation capacity yielded promising results, with a concentration factor of 10.71, recovery efficiency around 37% and 100% cell integrity, values comparable to those obtained via other preconcentration techniques such as flocculation. This preconcentration step was followed by a dewatering phase through centrifugation. Direct centrifugation alone was ineffective due to the high brine salinity and D. salina hydrophobicity, necessitating a salinity reduction step before optimal dewatering. Using single-factor and Box-Behnken design experiments, dewatering was optimized by studying centrifugation speed, salinity, and time, with centrifugation speed proving most influential. Optimal conditions (6500 rpm, 10 minutes, and 70 g/L salinity) resulted in 95.79% cell integrity and 98.79% recovery efficiency. These findings suggest that sequential preconcentration via flotation, followed by dilution and centrifugation, provides a sustainable method for saline environments, significantly enhancing both cost and energy efficiency.
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