Mikroalgen-Biomasse für die Biodieselproduktion

Microalgae are increasingly seen as a potential alternative to traditional raw materials for biodiesel, which are limited and can have economic, social, and ecological impacts. Recently, microalgae have been discussed as renewable biomass for biodiesel production, as they offer certain advantages compared to other biodiesel biomass. However, the processing of microalgae for biodiesel is notably different and presents significant challenges to ensure they are competitive compared to other biomass. Recently, technological advancements have brought microalgae biodiesel closer to economic feasibility by increasing the efficiency of technical methods. After isolation, the cultivation of microalgae can occur in two ways: either in open culture systems, known as ponds, or in highly controlled closed culture systems called photobioreactors (PBRs). Following algal growth, there are many methods for harvesting microalgae, such as centrifugation, filtration, and gravity sedimentation, which may be preceded by a flocculation step. We should be aware of the algal species when choosing the harvesting method, and factors such as the growth medium, algal production, end product, production costs, and pretreatments also play a role.