Optimizing fish feed pellets handling systems to minimize microplastics emissions - A pilot test based approach Ratnayake Chandana1,2,*, von Hafenbrädl Franz Otto1 1SINTEF Industrial Process Design, SINTEF Industry, SINTEF AS, Forskningsparken, Hydrovegen 67, 3936, Porsgrunn, Norway 2Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway *Corresponding Author’s E-mail Address: chandana.ratnayake@sintef.no
Online published on 7 March, 2025. Abstract The fisheries and aquaculture industries are vital components of global food production, yet they also contribute to release of microplastics into marine environments, posing risks to ecosystem health and seafood safety. Among the contributing factors, the erosion of feeding pipes during the pneumatic conveyance of fish feed pellets stands out as a significant source of microplastic pollution. This study focuses on optimizing feed pellet conveying systems in fish farms to minimize microplastic emissions while maximizing pipeline lifespan and pellet integrity. Using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes commonly found in aquaculture facilities, the impact of air velocity and pipeline configuration on pipe wall erosion and pellet breakage was investigated. Through pneumatic conveying tests, the effects of varying air flow rates and bend radii were assessed on pipeline wear and feed pellet integrity. The findings of the study underscored the importance of optimizing operating parameters to bring a balance between preventing pipe blockages and minimizing abrasive impacts on pellets and pipeline surfaces. Furthermore, a simulation-based approach to optimize feeding system performance is presented, integrating the experimental results into a computational model. This model allows for the evaluation of different operating conditions and pipeline configurations, offering insights into cost-effective strategies for reducing microplastic emissions while maintaining efficient feed delivery to fish populations. Ultimately, this research provided practical recommendations and best practices for the aquaculture industry to mitigate microplastic pollution from feeding pipes. By optimizing feed pellet conveying systems, environmental sustainability can be enhanced, seafood quality be preserved, and bolster consumer confidence in aquaculture products. Top Keywords Aquaculture, Pneumatic conveying, System optimization, Microplastic generation. Top |