Carbon streaming in microalgae: extraction and analysis methods for high value compounds

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Renewable Energy
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Microalgae are recognized as sustainable resources for carbon-neutral biofuels.
• Their ability to sequester carbon dioxide (CO2) and grow in non-arable land and diverse water sources (wastewater/seawater) makes them environmentally friendly.
• Microalgal systems possess intrinsic properties valuable for producing high-value compounds like carbohydrates, lipids, pigments, and proteins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review microalgae cultivation practices.
• To analyze methods utilizing both organic and inorganic carbon sources for microalgae growth.
• To discuss the advantages and disadvantages of various extraction and analytical procedures for microalgal products.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of microalgae cultivation techniques.
• Analysis of different carbon sources (organic and inorganic) for biomass production.
• Evaluation of extraction and analytical methods for high-value compounds.

Main Results:

• Microalgae cultivation can be optimized using various organic and inorganic carbon sources.
• Different extraction techniques yield varying quantities and qualities of target compounds (carbohydrates, lipids, pigments, proteins).
• Analytical procedures show distinct merits and demerits impacting the accurate quantification of microalgal products.

Conclusions:

• Microalgae represent a promising sustainable resource for biofuels and valuable biochemicals.
• Optimized cultivation and extraction strategies are crucial for maximizing the economic viability of microalgal applications.
• Further research into efficient analytical methods is needed to support the advancement of microalgal biotechnology.