SUPPLY AND CONSUMPTION MECHANISM OF ASH (MINERAL) TO DEPOSITED MUD

Abstract

 A granulated coal ash (GCA) was scattered onto organically-enriched tidal flats deposited along the Kyobashi River flowing through the center of Hiroshima City. It has been observed that the GCA layer is improving the ecosystem by forming algae that feed on benthic animals. In this study, major microalgae that flourished in the GCA layer were identified to examine the feasibility of establishing a diatomaceous farm in the sea where the decrease of diatoms is concerned. In addition, mesocosm experiment was carried out to quantify such microalgae. The purpose of this study is to investigate the mechanism of microalgae production by GCA under various water quality conditions. In the mesocosm experiment, the relationship between SiO₂, nutrients and the amount of chl-a attached onto GCA was analyzed. Results indicated that the contribution of GCA (silica elution and nutrients fixation) was found to promote the growth of attached diatoms and floating plants.