In December 2015, LG Sonic launched a groundbreaking collaboration with the Municipality of Zoetermeer and water board Rijnland to combat harmful algal blooms in the Netherlands. This milestone project marked LG Sonic’s first algae control deployment in its domestic market, demonstrating the effectiveness of ultrasonic technology in European recreational waters.
De Zoetermeerse Plas: A Recreational Lake Facing Algal Bloom Challenges
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Located in South Holland, the recreational lake de Zoetermeerse Plas had become increasingly threatened by toxic algal blooms. Like many lakes across Europe, the water body suffered from eutrophication, excess nutrient accumulation leading to harmful algae growth. The lake serves thousands of residents and visitors, making algae control essential for public health and recreation safety.
Four Ultrasonic Buoys Deployed for Algae Control
LG Sonic installed four MPC-Buoys in de Zoetermeerse Plas, each equipped with low-power ultrasound technology specifically designed to control toxic algal blooms without chemicals. The ultrasonic buoys work by emitting sound frequencies that inhibit algae growth and prevent cyanobacteria from reproducing, an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional algaecide treatments.
Why Ultrasonic Buoys Matter for Dutch Water Management
The Netherlands faces unique water management challenges. With extensive systems of lakes, canals, and reservoirs, the country requires innovative solutions for controlling harmful algal blooms while protecting aquatic ecosystems. This collaborative project in Zoetermeer demonstrated that ultrasonic technology could effectively address these challenges at scale.
Key Features of the Ultrasonic Buoy Solution:
- Low-power ultrasound prevents algae growth without chemicals
- Continuous monitoring and treatment in real-time
- Environmentally-friendly algae control for recreational lakes
- An automated system reduces manual intervention
- Solar-powered for sustainable operation
A Model for European Algae Control
The success of the de Zoetermeerse Plas project positioned LG Sonic as a leader in Dutch and European algae management. The project generated significant regional and local media attention, with press coverage highlighting the innovative approach to solving a persistent water quality problem.
Since this landmark deployment, ultrasonic algae control has expanded across Europe and globally, proving that the technology works effectively in diverse water environments, from drinking water reservoirs to cooling systems to recreational lakes.