Physicochemical approach to freshwater microalgae harvesting with magnetic particles

- Magnetization of microalgae is a promising harvesting method.
- Magnetic beads with strong and weak ionex functional groups were studied.
- Freshwater microalgae vs. magnetic bead interactions predictable by XDLVO theory.
- Optimal conditions for microalgae magnetic modification (harvesting) were found.
- Bead detachment possible when only weak physicochemical interactions involved.