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Soudagar MEM, Kiong TS, Jathar L, Nik Ghazali NN, Ramesh S, Awasarmol U, Ong HC. Perspectives on cultivation and harvesting technologies of microalgae, towards environmental sustainability and life cycle analysis. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 353:141540. [PMID: 38423144 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The development of algae is seen as a potential and ecologically sound approach to address the increasing demands in multiple sectors. However, successful implementation of processes is highly dependent on effective growing and harvesting methods. The present study provides a complete examination of contemporary techniques employed in the production and harvesting of algae, with a particular emphasis on their sustainability. The review begins by examining several culture strategies, encompassing open ponds, closed photobioreactors, and raceway ponds. The analysis of each method is conducted in a systematic manner, with a particular focus on highlighting their advantages, limitations, and potential for expansion. This approach ensures that the conversation is in line with the objectives of sustainability. Moreover, this study explores essential elements of algae harvesting, including the processes of cell separation, dewatering, and biomass extraction. Traditional methods such as centrifugation, filtration, and sedimentation are examined in conjunction with novel, environmentally concerned strategies including flocculation, electro-coagulation, and membrane filtration. It evaluates the impacts on the environment that are caused by the cultivation process, including the usage of water and land, the use of energy, the production of carbon dioxide, and the runoff of nutrients. Furthermore, this study presents a thorough examination of the current body of research pertaining to Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) studies, presenting a perspective that emphasizes sustainability in the context of algae harvesting systems. In conclusion, the analysis ends up with an examination ahead at potential areas for future study in the cultivation and harvesting of algae. This review is an essential guide for scientists, policymakers, and industry experts associated with the advancement and implementation of algae-based technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manzoore Elahi M Soudagar
- Institute of Sustainable Energy (ISE), Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Jalan IKRAM-UNITEN, 43000 Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun, Uttarakhand - 248002, India; Environmental and Atmospheric Sciences Research Group, Scientific Research Center, Al-Ayen University, Thi-Qar, Nasiriyah, 64001, Iraq.
| | - Tiong Sieh Kiong
- Institute of Sustainable Energy (ISE), Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Jalan IKRAM-UNITEN, 43000 Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Laxmikant Jathar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Army Institute of Technology, Pune, 411015, India.
| | - Nik Nazri Nik Ghazali
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - S Ramesh
- Institute of Sustainable Energy (ISE), Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Jalan IKRAM-UNITEN, 43000 Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Umesh Awasarmol
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Army Institute of Technology, Pune, 411015, India.
| | - Hwai Chyuan Ong
- Department of Engineering, School of Engineering and Technology, Sunway University, Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, 47500, Selangor, Malaysia.
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de Cassia Soares Brandão B, Oliveira CYB, Dos Santos EP, de Abreu JL, Oliveira DWS, da Silva SMBC, Gálvez AO. Microalgae-based domestic wastewater treatment: a review of biological aspects, bioremediation potential, and biomass production with biotechnological high-value. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1384. [PMID: 37889346 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-12031-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
This review aims to perform an updated bibliographical survey on the cultivation of microalgae in domestic wastewater with a focus on biotechnological aspects. It was verified that the largest number of researches developed was about cultures in microalgae-bacteria consortium and mixed cultures of microalgae, followed by researches referring to the species Chlorella vulgaris and to the family Scenedesmaceae. According to published studies, these microorganisms are efficient in the biological treatment of domestic wastewater, as well as in the production of high value-added biomass, as they are capable of biosorbing the organic and inorganic compounds present in the culture medium, thus generating cells with high levels of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. These compounds are of great importance for different industry sectors, such as pharmaceuticals, food, and also for agriculture and aquaculture. In addition, biomolecules produced by microalgae can be extracted for several biotechnological applications; however, most studies focus on the production of biofuels, with biodiesel being the main one. There are also other emerging applications that still require more in-depth research, such as the use of biomass as a biofertilizer and biostimulant in the production of bioplastic. Therefore, it is concluded that the cultivation of microalgae in domestic wastewater is a sustainable way to promote effluent bioremediation and produce valuable biomass for the biobased industry, contributing to the development of technology for the green economy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlos Yure B Oliveira
- Departamento de Botânica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | | | - Jéssika Lima de Abreu
- Departamento de Pesca e Aquicultura, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | | | | | - Alfredo Olivera Gálvez
- Departamento de Pesca e Aquicultura, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
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Lin X, Luo L, Mao Z, Wang H, Chu S, Wang H, Luo S. Effect of Microplastics on the Removal of Nitrogen and Phosphorus from Synthetic Piggery Digestate by Microalgae. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14204349. [PMID: 36297927 PMCID: PMC9612051 DOI: 10.3390/polym14204349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have been proven to be one of the major threats to the wastewater treatment system. However, the impact of MPs on microalgae-based wastewater treatment technology are still unknown. In this study, effects of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene (PE) on the removal of nitrogen and phosphorus from synthetic piggery digestate by microalgae were investigated. Results show that the effect of PVC particle size on the growth of microalgae was significant. The effects of PVC content, PP particle size and content, PET particle size and content on the growth of microalgae were all not significant. The removal of ammonia nitrogen by microalgae was influenced significantly by PVC particle size and content, PP particle size and content, the effects of PET particle size and content on the removal of ammonia nitrogen were all not significant. The effects of particle size and content for three MPs on the removal of total phosphorus were all significant. Microalgae cells were bound together after being adsorbed by MPs, which increased the secretion of extracellular polymers and influenced the removal of ammonia nitrogen and total phosphorus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoai Lin
- School of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Shangrao Normal University, Shangrao 334001, China
| | - Longzao Luo
- School of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Shangrao Normal University, Shangrao 334001, China
- Correspondence: (L.L.); (S.L.)
| | - Zhitong Mao
- School of Chemistry and Environmental Science, Shangrao Normal University, Shangrao 334001, China
| | - Huimin Wang
- College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Shiyu Chu
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang 550003, China
| | - Hui Wang
- College of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Guizhou Minzu University, Guiyang 550003, China
| | - Shuang Luo
- College of Resources and Environment, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
- Correspondence: (L.L.); (S.L.)
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de Lima NAM, Ecard LG, Rodrigues E, Veiga L, Sampaio Guedes CE, Andrade S, Cunha Lima ST. Use of Microalgae for Biofuel Production in the Northeast Region of Brazil, with Emphasis on Genus Botryococcus: A Review. Ind Biotechnol (New Rochelle N Y) 2022. [DOI: 10.1089/ind.2022.0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Edson Rodrigues
- Department of Life Sciences, State University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Luciana Veiga
- Institute of Biology, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | | | - Solange Andrade
- Institute of Biology, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
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Integrated Approach for Wastewater Treatment and Biofuel Production in Microalgae Biorefineries. ENERGIES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/en14082282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The increasing world population generates huge amounts of wastewater as well as large energy demand. Additionally, fossil fuel’s combustion for energy production causes the emission of greenhouse gases (GHG) and other pollutants. Therefore, there is a strong need to find alternative green approaches for wastewater treatment and energy production. Microalgae biorefineries could represent an effective strategy to mitigate the above problems. Microalgae biorefineries are a sustainable alternative to conventional wastewater treatment processes, as they potentially allow wastewater to be treated at lower costs and with lower energy consumption. Furthermore, they provide an effective means to recover valuable compounds for biofuel production or other applications. This review focuses on the current scenario and future prospects of microalgae biorefineries aimed at combining wastewater treatment with biofuel production. First, the different microalgal cultivation systems are examined, and their main characteristics and limitations are discussed. Then, the technologies available for converting the biomass produced during wastewater treatment into biofuel are critically analyzed. Finally, current challenges and research directions for biofuel production and wastewater treatment through this approach are outlined.
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Veerabadhran M, Gnanasekaran D, Wei J, Yang F. Anaerobic digestion of microalgal biomass for bioenergy production, removal of nutrients and microcystin: current status. J Appl Microbiol 2021; 131:1639-1651. [PMID: 33421297 DOI: 10.1111/jam.15000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Using renewable microalgal biomass as active feedstocks for biofuels and bioproducts is explored to substitute petroleum-based fuels and chemicals. In the last few years, the importance of microalgae biomass has been realized as a renewable feedstock due to several positive attributes associated with it. Biorefinery via anaerobic digestion (AD) of microalgal biomass is a promising and sustainable method to produce value-added chemicals, edible products and biofuels. Microalgal biomass pretreatment is a significant process to enhance methane production by AD. Findings on the AD microbial community's variety and organization can give novel in turn on digester steadiness and presentation. This review presents a vital study of the existing facts on the AD microbial community and AD production. Co-digestion of microalgal biomass with different co-substrates was used in AD to enhance biogas production, and the process was economically viable with improved biodegradability. Microcystins, which are produced by toxic cyanobacterial blooms, create a severe hazard to environmental health. Anaerobic biodegradation is an effective method to degrade the microcystins and convert into nontoxic products. However, for the cost-effective conversion of biomass to energy and other beneficial byproducts, additional highly developed research is still required for large-scale AD of microalgal biomass.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Veerabadhran
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - D Gnanasekaran
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - J Wei
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - F Yang
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Typical Environmental Pollution and Health Hazards, School of Public Health, University of South China, Hengyang, China
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Li T, Zhou Q. The key role of Geobacter in regulating emissions and biogeochemical cycling of soil-derived greenhouse gases. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 266:115135. [PMID: 32650301 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In the past two decades, more and more attentions have been paid to soil-derived greenhouse gases (GHGs) including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) because there are signs that they have rising negative impacts on the sustainability of the earth surface system. Farmlands, particularly paddy soils, have been regarded as the most important emitter of GHGs (nearly 17%) due to a large influx of fertilization and the abundance in animals, plants and microorganisms. Geobacter, as an electroactive microorganism widely occurred in soil, has been well studied on electron transport mechanisms and the direct interspecies electron transfer. These studies on Geobacter illustrate that it has the ability to be involved in the pathways of soil GHG emissions through redox reactions under anaerobic conditions. In this review, production mechanisms of soil-derived GHGs and the amount of these GHGs produced had been first summarized. The cycling process of CH4 and N2O was described from the view of microorganisms and discussed the co-culture relationships between Geobacter and other microorganisms. Furthermore, the role of Geobacter in the production of soil-derived GHGs is defined by biogeochemical cycling. The complete view on the effect of Geobacter on the emission of soil-derived GHGs has been shed light on, and appeals further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Qixing Zhou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China.
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Calicioglu O, Shreve MJ, Richard TL, Brennan RA. Effect of pH and temperature on microbial community structure and carboxylic acid yield during the acidogenic digestion of duckweed. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS 2018; 11:275. [PMID: 30337954 PMCID: PMC6174553 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-018-1278-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Duckweeds (Lemnaceae) are efficient aquatic plants for wastewater treatment due to their high nutrient-uptake capabilities and resilience to severe environmental conditions. Combined with their rapid growth rates, high starch, and low lignin contents, duckweeds have also gained popularity as a biofuel feedstock for thermochemical conversion and alcohol fermentation. However, studies on the acidogenic anaerobic digestion of duckweed into carboxylic acids, another group of chemicals which are precursors of higher-value chemicals and biofuels, are lacking. In this study, a series of laboratory batch experiments were performed to determine the favorable operating conditions (i.e., temperature and pH) to maximize carboxylic acid production from wastewater-derived duckweed during acidogenic digestion. Batch reactors with 25 g/l solid loading were operated anaerobically for 21 days under mesophilic (35 °C) or thermophilic (55 °C) conditions at an acidic (5.3) or basic (9.2) pH. At the conclusion of the experiment, the dominant microbial communities under various operating conditions were assessed using high-throughput sequencing. RESULTS The highest duckweed-carboxylic acid conversion of 388 ± 28 mg acetic acid equivalent per gram volatile solids was observed under mesophilic and basic conditions, with an average production rate of 0.59 g/l/day. This result is comparable to those reported for acidogenic digestion of other organics such as food waste. The superior performance observed under these conditions was attributed to both chemical treatment and microbial bioconversion. Hydrogen recovery was only observed under acidic thermophilic conditions, as 23.5 ± 0.5 ml/g of duckweed volatile solids added. More than temperature, pH controlled the overall structure of the microbial communities. For instance, differentially abundant enrichments of Veillonellaceae acidaminococcus were observed in acidic samples, whereas enrichments of Clostridiaceae alkaliphilus were found in the basic samples. Acidic mesophilic conditions were found to enrich acetoclastic methanogenic populations over processing times longer than 10 days. CONCLUSIONS Operating conditions have a significant effect on the yield and composition of the end products resulting from acidogenic digestion of duckweed. Wastewater-derived duckweed is a technically feasible alternative feedstock for the production of advanced biofuel precursors; however, techno-economic analysis is needed to determine integrated full-scale system feasibility and economic viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozgul Calicioglu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, 212 Sackett Building, University Park, 16802 USA
| | - Michael J. Shreve
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, 212 Sackett Building, University Park, 16802 USA
| | - Tom L. Richard
- Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, 132 Land and Water Research Building, University Park, PA 16802 USA
| | - Rachel A. Brennan
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, 212 Sackett Building, University Park, 16802 USA
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