Feasibility of technological solutions for non-biological ammonia removal in RAS

Background

Biofilters are a cornerstone of recirculating aquaculture systems, where bacteria feed on fish-toxic ammonia in the water and transform it to nitrogen. This project is a feasibility study about other methods of ammonia removal that do not rely on bacteria.

Goal

The goal of the NonBio project is to find out if technologies that remove ammonia without using bacteria can work in commercial recirculating aquaculture systems. We will look at how ready these technologies are, how safe and cost-effective they are compared to biofilters, and whether they affect fish health or the environment.

This is what we do

New ways to keep RAS water clean

The NonBio project starts by exploring what technologies exist today to remove ammonia from recirculating aquaculture systems without relying on bacteria. We will map relevant solutions, from early-stage ideas to mature systems, and gather what fish farmers, technology developers, and facility operators really need from these innovations.

Testing feasibility and safety

Next, we ask how well these technologies can work in practice. Can they remove ammonia efficiently? Are they cost-effective compared to traditional biofilters? And just as important, we will check if they are safe for fish, people, and the environment. Understanding these factors is key to making sure new solutions do not create new problems.

Sharing knowledge and building connections

Finally, we will bring everything together in clear, accessible reports for research, leaflets for industry, and this website for you. We will share our findings with the Norwegian aquaculture industry and engage directly with producers and technology providers.

Contact

Linda Tschirren

Scientist
+47 77 62 90 07