Tertiary amine as an efficient CO₂ switchable solvent for extracting lipids from hypersaline microalgae

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Renewable Energy
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Microalgae are a sustainable source for biofuels.
• Efficient lipid extraction is crucial for cost-effective algal biorefineries.
• Traditional methods often involve harsh chemicals and energy-intensive processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate switchable tertiary amine solvents for green lipid extraction from wet microalgae.
• To evaluate the efficiency of Dimethylbenzylamine (DMBA), Dimethylcyclohexylamine (DMCHA), and Diisopropylethylamine (DIPEA).
• To determine the suitability of specific microalgae strains for biodiesel production.

Main Methods:

• Lipid extraction from wet hypersaline microalgae using DMBA, DMCHA, and DIPEA.
• Optimization of solvent-to-biomass ratio (1:1 v/v) and extraction time (1 hour).
• Analysis of fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profiles to assess biodiesel quality.

Main Results:

• DMBA achieved high lipid yields: 41.9% for Chlorella sp. NITT05, 33.3% for Picochlorum sp. NITT04.
• DMCHA showed moderate yields (up to 34.28%), while DIPEA was ineffective.
• Recovered DMBA solvent maintained high extraction efficiency.
• FAME analysis indicated suitability of Chlorella sp. NITT05 and Picochlorum sp. NITT04 for biodiesel.

Conclusions:

• DMBA is a promising green solvent for efficient microalgal lipid extraction.
• Chlorella sp. NITT05 and Picochlorum sp. NITT04 are ideal candidates for biodiesel production.
• This approach offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative for algal biorefineries.