Innovation in High Andean Lagoon Remediation: Development and Evaluation of a Solid Waste Collection Bin with a Nanobubble System in Pucush Uclo, Peru

Environmental Engineering, Universidad Continental, Huancayo, Junín, Perú

Abstract

This study developed and evaluated an innovative Solid Waste Collection System integrating Venturi nanobubble technology, implemented in Pucush Uclo Lagoon (Peru, 3,232 masl). Through a 16-week quasi-experimental design comparing conventional (A) and nanobubble-enhanced (B) configurations, the Venturi system generated highly stable nanobubbles (178 ± 23 nm diameter, 1.4 × 10⁸ bubbles/mL, -32.7 mV zeta potential). Key findings revealed that configuration B achieved significantly superior collection efficiency (94.2% vs 76.8%), with exceptional performance for small waste (<5 cm) showing 37.2% relative improvement. The system simultaneously enhanced water quality through 46.3% dissolved oxygen increase (5.4 to 7.9 mg/L) and substantial pollutant reductions: 53.9% BOD₅, 37.9% COD, 64.3% total susUSDded solids, and 61.6% turbidity. Strong correlations were identified between nanobubble concentration and dissolved oxygen (r=0.89) and between oxygen levels and BOD reduction (r=-0.85). Economic analysis demonstrated operational cost-effectiveness at $0.045 USD/m², representing 60% savings compared to conventional methods. This dual-approach system validates an innovative paradigm combining physical waste collection with biochemical water enhancement through targeted oxygenation. The technology offers a scalable, cost-effective solution particularly suitable for high-altitude aquatic ecosystems with limited self-purification capacity. Results demonstrate that nanobubble integration significantly enhances collection efficiency while simultaneously addressing water quality degradation, providing a comprehensive remediation strategy for contaminated water bodies in challenging environmental conditions.