Algae Biomass: Characteristics and Applications

Abstract

This book provides an overview of the importance of different forms of algae (microalgae, as well as marine and freshwater macroalgae) in different applications. Algae as a renewable biomass can be used as a component in the production of a wide array of products, including food, pharmaceuticals, health-related products, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, fine chemicals (dyes and colorants), feed components, feed additives, aquaculture products, and agriculture products (fertilizers, biostimulants for plant growth). Recently, novel and emerging technologies have been developed to convert algal biomass into valuable products and extract biologically active compounds from algae in an efficient and environmentally friendly manner. This book describes the characteristic features of algae cultivation, identification, and production, as well as its subsequent applications. Algae-based products may play an important role in a sustainable future. The development of an algal sector in industry could help to solve many of the problems that modern society is currently facing, including the security of energy and water, food supplies, and climate protection.