Algae blooms not only damage the aesthetics of landscape lakes but also directly affect water quality: dissolved oxygen decreases, unpleasant odors arise, fish die, and many aquatic species are impacted. This phenomenon is particularly severe in summer, putting significant pressure on urban and tourist lake systems.
2. Causes
Many rivers and lakes in Vietnam experience stagnation and poor circulation, causing direct or indirect discharge of domestic wastewater into lakes, or nutrient overload from rainwater runoff, especially nitrogen and phosphorus. Under sunlight and high temperatures, algae grow uncontrollably, potentially producing toxins and causing unpleasant odors.
FUDESO introduces the MPC-Buoy smart algae control system, an advanced solution from LG Sonic (Netherlands), successfully deployed in over 60 countries. MPC-Buoy is a floating, solar-powered system that combines real-time water quality monitoring with low-energy ultrasonic technology to effectively control algae in lakes.
How do ultrasonic waves affect algae? Watch the video below for details.
Key Components of the System
01. Ultrasonic Transmitter:
360° algae control
Frequency adjustable according to algae type
Treatment diameter up to 500–800m
Based on measured water quality data, the system can remotely activate the appropriate ultrasonic program. To be effective, specific frequency programs must be set according to the existing algae type. LG Sonic products do not rely on bubble formation; they use low-power ultrasound to control algae growth, preventing toxin release into the water.
02. Water Quality Sensors:
MPC-Buoy is equipped with sensors that monitor critical water quality parameters in real time, including:
Chlorophyll-a (green algae)
Phycocyanin (cyanobacteria)
Dissolved oxygen
Turbidity
Temperature
pH
03. Solar Panels:
Provide stable, energy-efficient power.
04. UV-Resistant Floating Frame:
Electrostatic-painted aluminum frame, UV-resistant, corrosion-resistant, lightweight, durable, and easy to deploy in any lake environment.
05. Data Transmission Unit:
LG Sonic data loggers are specially designed for aquatic environments, transmitting continuous monitoring data to LG Sonic's online software (MPC-View) via 3G. Other data connections are available on request, including GPRS or satellite.
06. Water Quality Control Software:
MPC-View software allows visual monitoring of water quality in lakes or reservoirs. It receives data from advanced water quality sensors integrated into MPC-Buoy.
Customers can access a personalized dashboard to view an overview of their algae control projects. The software provides detailed information on water quality, algae trends, and ultrasound treatment progress. It also displays technical parameters, such as ultrasonic transmitter status, signal intensity, and battery level. Reports can be exported to Excel or PDF for sharing or publication.
Key Benefits
Removes up to 90% of algae and prevents new growth
Chemical-free → completely safe for aquatic ecosystems
Reduces odor and turbidity, improving lake aesthetics
Stable year-round operation, reducing labor costs
Enhances environmental and urban value
Clear and easy-to-control data, helping management make quick decisions
Representative Projects
The MPC-Buoy system has been implemented in over 60 countries worldwide, alongside leading water and energy companies:
American Water: Largest public water and wastewater service in the USA
Anglian Water: Provides drinking water for over 4 million customers and recycled water services for nearly 7 million
Aguas Andinas: Water and sewer services for 8.5 million people
Maynilad: Responsible for water and wastewater services in western Manila
Case Studies
Case Study 01 – Irrigation Reservoir, Australia:
Before (left) and after (right) using LG Sonic ultrasonic technology shows a significant improvement in water quality.
Case Study 02 – Al Qudra Lake, Dubai:
Previously used for irrigation, the lake suffered severe algae blooms. The water surface was covered by green filamentous algae, blocking pumps and sprinklers. Dubai authorities selected MPC-Buoy due to its chemical-free technology and real-time water monitoring. Each MPC-Buoy unit can treat blooms up to 500 meters in diameter. Larger reservoirs use multiple units to cover the entire surface.
Results: 60 days after installation, chlorophyll-a and phycocyanin levels in two nearby lakes were compared:
Cyanobacteria reduced by 73% (675 µg/L → 180 µg/L)
Based on these results, Dubai is expanding LG Sonic treatment to more lakes and reservoirs.
Water quality in two reservoirs at the same location: untreated (left) vs. treated with LG Sonic (right).
Reservoir treated with the LG Sonic system (left) compared to the untreated reservoir (right), as seen on Google Earth
Untreated reservoir (left) compared to reservoir treated with LG ultrasonic waves (right)
Conclusion
MPC-Buoy is specially designed for large surface water areas, providing an effective and cost-efficient algae control solution for lakes, ponds, and drinking water reservoirs.
1. Monitor Water Quality:
Collects chlorophyll-a, phycocyanin, pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and temperature every 10 minutes.
2. Predict Algae Blooms:
Data is transmitted in real-time via GPRS or 3G to online software. LG Sonic algorithms adjust ultrasonic programs based on water conditions and predict algae blooms days in advance.
3. Control Algae:
Ultrasound programs are activated according to water conditions and algae type, removing existing algae and preventing new growth.
MPC-Buoy is an advanced, eco-friendly, and sustainable solution for algae management in landscape lakes. FUDESO proudly brings this solution to Vietnam, supporting local authorities in restoring and preserving water quality.
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