Agriculture
November 9, 2023
Product Description
The Bubble Barrier prevents plastic pollution by creating a bubble screen within the waterway. This is achieved by placing the tube (with holes) along the bottom of the waterway and pumping air through a tube.
Target Users (Target Impact Group)
Distributors / Implementing Organizations
This product is implemented by the manufacturer.
Manufacturing/Building Method
The Bubble Barrier is made of a PVC tube with holes in it. This tube is reinforced with a steel cable and is attached to the bottom of the river at some points with steel or (recycled) concrete blocks. The company manages its manufacturing from Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Correspondence with the Manufacturer in August 2020
Intellectural Property Type
Patent Protected
User Provision Model
Users can obtain the product by directly contacting the manufacturer.
Distributions to Date Status
As of August 2020, Bubble Barriers have been installed at a wastewater treatment plant in Wervershoof, New Holland and in Amsterdam, commissioned by the Regional Water Authority Amstel, Gooi and Vecht and the municipality of Amsterdam
Design Specifications
The Bubble Barrier works by using a tube with holes, which is placed on the bottom of a river. Pumping air through the tube creates a bubble curtain. The air bubbles force plastics in the water to the surface, making them accessible for removal. This concept is used in the oil industry, the dredging industry, and the Dutch lock system. By placing the bubble barrier diagonally to the flow of a river, the power of the river forces debris to the banks of the river, where it can be easily removed from the water. The Bubble Barrier also uses the natural current to guide the plastic to the local catchment system.
Technical Support
Provided by the manufacturer.
Replacement Components
The manufacturer can be contacted regarding the replacement of any components such as the PVC tube or compressor.
Lifecycle
Unknown
Manufacturer Specified Performance Parameters
The manufactured specified performance targets are as follows:
- Animal-friendly: The Bubble Barrier forms a barrier for plastics, but allows fish to pass
- Ship-friendly: The Bubble Barrier has no effect on passing ships
- Full Range: The Bubble Barrier reaches entire width and depth of a river or canal
Vetted Performance Status
Initial concept testing took place in the flumes at Deltares in May 2017. A 200 m length Bubbles Barrier was subsequently tested at Kampen in the IJssel at the end of 2017. The 3-week investigation shows that that the Bubble Barrier works under all Dutch autumn weather conditions and that it catches 86% of all used test material on average.
Safety
No known safety hazards are related to this product. However, the manufacturer must be involved in its correct installation in a waterway.
Complementary Technical Systems
The manufacturer indicated they are always looking for creative uses for the plastic which has been removed, in order to create more awareness about waterway pollution.
Academic Research and References
Spaargaren, L., 2018, “The Bubble Barrier“, Delft University of Technology Master Thesis.
Compliance with regulations
It is understood that the Bubble Barrier is compliant with known regulations as the product does not require any changes in infrastructure or policies. Any potential issues arising from implementation in different countries will be addressed on a project basis with the relevant authorities.
Other Information
None
Explore similar solutions
Agriculture
November 9, 2023
Cranfield Nano Membrane Toilet
Read Solution
Agriculture
November 9, 2023
Consol Solar Jar
Read Solution
Agriculture
November 9, 2023
Honeycomb AgDrone
Read Solution
Agriculture
November 9, 2023
GF1 Submersible Solar Pump
Read Solution
Agriculture
November 9, 2023
Wisdom Stoves MJ
Read Solution
Agriculture
November 9, 2023
Micro Compound Lever Briquette Press
Read Solution
Agriculture
November 9, 2023
Jiko Raha
Read Solution
Agriculture
November 9, 2023
Ignitia
Read Solution
Agriculture
November 9, 2023
Little Sun Charge
Read SolutionGet more information about Solutions Library and its features.
Learn MoreHave thoughts on how we can improve?
Give Us Feedback