Water scarcity is a global challenge addressed through desalination technologies, with the use of reverse osmosis membranes (ROM) and ultrafiltration systems (UFS) being particularly effective due to their efficiency. However, biofouling in these membranes limits their performance, generates high costs, and reduces their lifespan. Current chemical treatments do not completely eliminate biofilms because they do not degrade the extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix that protects microorganisms. As an alternative, a biotechnological solution based on the use of bacterial supernatants rich in exoenzymes capable of degrading EPS and preventing microfouling formation is proposed. This technology will be validated at pilot scale (TRL6) in ultrafiltration modules and RO membranes because it is low-cost, easy to implement, and environmentally friendly. Within the framework of project IT24I0016, cell-free supernatant (CFS) from Vibrio neptunius strain ULV11 is used as a replacement for chemical agents in membranes with three years of continuous use. The treatment shows a recovery of permeate volume and an improvement in water conductivity, along with the effective removal of EPS and restoration of membrane topology, confirmed by atomic force and confocal microscopy. These results demonstrate the potential of CFS as an effective and sustainable alternative to conventional chemical treatment.
The team has experience in the development of marine bioactive compounds, including a US patent and bacteria with antifouling activity validated in earlier phases (TRL4). The proposal does not require proprietary technologies and complies with current environmental regulations for aquaculture and marine environment protection.