Integration of microalgae biomass in biomethanation systems

Concerted efforts in the field of bioenergy are driving dynamic studies for the production of microalgae-based biogas systems. Its ability to recycle residual nutrients and carbon dioxide (CO2) products of the anaerobic effluent reflected anaerobic digestion as the most sustainable means for renewable energy generation in microalgae. These measures will aid to lessen the effect of greenhouse gas emissions and increase the prospects for the application of microalgae biomass in the field of food and agricultural technology, medicine, and bioengineering, contributing to the sustainability of the industries. To begin with, the experimental limitations associated with the cultivation of microalgae biomass need to be resolved. In spite of the extensive studies conducted in the field of bioengineering, problems related to culture optimization, high building and operation costs remained persistent. This review highlighted vital points of microalgae-based bioprocesses that require several advancements in order to improve the prospects of anaerobic digestion and discover novel renewable energy products. Coupled anaerobic digestion with microalgae cultivation systems requires intensive research as a distinct bioenergy generation process to uphold pilot-scale applications. (c) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.