Ultrasound Technology: The Breakthrough Behind the Recovery of Laguna Lo Méndez
Laguna Lo Méndez in Concepción is experiencing a remarkable environmental rebound—and at the heart of this recovery is a powerful, eco-friendly tool: ultrasonic algae control technology. Implemented by Biotech in collaboration with Sonic Pure, this innovation is transforming one of Chile’s most affected urban lagoons into a cleaner, safer, and more biologically balanced ecosystem.
From Crisis to Recovery
Just over a year ago, Laguna Lo Méndez faced a serious ecological emergency. Thick layers of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) covered the water surface, generating foul odors, blocking sunlight, and suffocating fish. Numerous fish and coypus died, water quality plummeted, and the lagoon became a source of concern for both residents and authorities.
The root cause: nutrient pollution. Nitrogen and phosphorus from urban runoff, fertilizers, stormwater, and occasional sewage leaks had created the perfect breeding ground for algae blooms.
Today, the transformation is undeniable—cleaner water, more active wildlife, and a lagoon that residents can enjoy again. And one technology stands out as the catalyst behind this turnaround.
How Ultrasound Works: Clean, Silent, and Safe
The ultrasonic system installed at Laguna Lo Méndez emits controlled sound waves between 20 and 200 kHz, a frequency range:
- Harmless to humans
- Safe for pets and birds
- Safe for fish and aquatic life
- Silent and invisible in operation
But for algae, these sound waves are devastating.
Ultrasound targets the algae’s gas vacuoles, the internal structures that allow them to float and reach sunlight. When disrupted by ultrasonic resonance:
- The algae lose buoyancy
- They sink to the bottom
- They can’t photosynthesize
- They die naturally
- Blooms stop forming
No chemicals, no boats, no manual removal—just clean, continuous control.
This makes ultrasound one of the world’s most advanced and environmentally respectful solutions for harmful algae blooms.
Visible Improvements for the Community
Since the installation of the ultrasonic system, Laguna Lo Méndez has shown:
- Clearer water with no green surface mats
- A return of native bird species, including ducks and waterfowl
- More active fish, indicating healthier oxygen levels
- A dramatic reduction in odors
- A more stable ecosystem, with increased biodiversity
- Improved public use, as neighbors enjoy the lagoon again
Visitors can now appreciate the beauty of the lagoon without the sights and smells that once defined it.
Scientifically Backed and Municipally Supported
Ultrasound is part of a larger restoration strategy recommended by academic institutions and executed by the Municipality of Concepción. Studies by the Catholic University and Universidad Santo Tomás identified ultrasound as a key measure for resolving recurring cyanobacteria blooms.
Alongside municipal efforts to reduce nutrient inputs and restore wetlands, the ultrasonic system provides the continuous, 24/7 protection needed to prevent dangerous blooms from reappearing.
A Sustainable Solution for the Future
Ultrasound represents a major shift toward modern, chemical-free water management. With thousands of installations worldwide, this technology is becoming the global standard for eco-friendly algae control in:
- Urban lagoons
- Golf course ponds
- Drinking water reservoirs
- Lakes and recreational waters
- Industrial and agricultural basins
Laguna Lo Méndez is now one of Chile’s top examples of how science and innovation can restore natural environments safely and sustainably.
A Message for the Community
While ultrasonic technology prevents algae from multiplying, the long-term health of the lagoon depends on community awareness. Residents are encouraged to:
- Avoid feeding ducks
- Prevent dumping waste into storm drains
- Support ongoing restoration efforts
Technology can do a lot—but protecting water resources is a shared responsibility.
A New Era for Laguna Lo Méndez
With cleaner water, thriving wildlife, and a healthier ecosystem, Laguna Lo Méndez is becoming a benchmark for environmental recovery in Chile. The success of the ultrasonic system demonstrates the power of innovation to solve long-standing environmental challenges—safely, sustainably, and effectively.
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