Algal cell rupture using high pressure homogenization as a prelude to oil extraction

Research associated with extraction of lipids from algae and the use of algal biomass for transportation fuel production is still in its infancy. Measurement techniques associated with algal systems are still not well established and, as a result, pitfalls exist. This paper discusses several measurement and characterization techniques that were attempted while developing an algal oil extraction system and their effectiveness. Measurements were made primarily to quantify the degree of algal cell breakage using high pressure homogenization - as a prelude to solvent extraction. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.