AQUAbubble

The AQUAbubble project addresses three major challenges in land-based fish farming by applying innovative nanobubble (NB) technology:

By generating and studying ultra-fine bubbles containing oxygen, CO2, and flue gas, the project seeks to understand how these bubbles behave in water and to improve oxygen and carbon management in commercial aquaculture. The NB generator technology developed by Oxy Solutions will be tested both in laboratory and full-scale land-based Atlantic salmon systems. Laboratory experiments will optimize bubble generation and assess the ability of O2 NBs to prevent or mitigate H2S. Field trials will explore whether NB generators can replace or complement existing oxygenation methods while improving overall water quality. Fish growth, health, and environmental parameters will be monitored over several months to evaluate the benefits of NBs in practical aquaculture operations.

In parallel, AQUAbubble will assess the potential of NB technology to capture CO2 and stimulate microalgae growth, supporting a circular bioeconomy. The algae biomass produced can be used in aquafeeds or as a source of high-value compounds such as fatty acids and carotenoids.

To ensure robust assessment, the project will employ nanospacer technology, an innovative  method designed to quantify and analyze nanoparticles and nanobubbles. In combination with dark field microscopy, nanospacer technology allows cost-effective nanobubble analysis at site, by-passing sample transportation and costly lab-analyses.

Finally, AQUAbubble will conduct a techno-economic analysis comparing NB technology with conventional oxygenation systems. This will help demonstrate tangible cost–benefit advantages, strengthen the position of Oxy Solutions as a contributor to sustainable aquaculture innovation, and open new opportunities for industry growth and employment.