Microalgae-based biorefineries as a promising approach to biofuel production

Abstract

Microalgae are photosynthetic microorganisms that are capable of converting carbon dioxide, nutrients, and solar energy into biomass and oxygen. In addition, microalgae have high photosynthetic rates, do not require potable water and arable land for cultivation, and can use liquid and gaseous effluents as nutrients for growth. The biochemical composition of microalgae can be manipulated by changing the cultivation conditions and environmental stresses. Thus, these microorganisms can be induced to produce biomass that is rich in biocompounds of commercial importance. The microalgal biomass can be converted into biofuels and high value-added bioproducts. Thus, microalgae have potential uses as renewable raw materials and could provide promising materials for the development of biorefineries. In this context, this chapter examines microalgae within a biorefinery concept and describes the advantages of using microalgae, culture conditions, biocompounds from biomass and the potential for converting them into biofuel and bioproducts.