Nanotechnology for improved production of algal biofuels: a review

Fossil fuel depletion and carbon dioxide emissions are calling for carbon neutral energies such as algal biofuels, yet actual production of agal biofuels is limited by costly and energy-intensive manufacturing. This issue could be partly solved by adding nanomaterials to algal cultures in order to increase algal growth and lipid content, and to enhance lipid extraction. Here we review nanotechnologies to improve biofuel production from microalgae. We discuss microalgae as a source of fuel, food supplements, and CO2 for biorefineries that produce biomethane, biohydrogen, and bioethanol. Then we compare nanocatalysts for biodiesel production with enzymatic catalysts. The major nanomaterials used are metallic, magnetic, metal oxide or acid-functionalised nanoparticles, and carbon nanotubes.

Automated summary

Fossil fuel depletion and carbon dioxide emissions require more carbon neutral energies like algal biofuels, but their actual production is limited due to expensive and energy-intensive manufacturing. Adding nanomaterials to algal cultures can help increase algal growth and lipid content, as well as enhance lipid extraction. This review discusses nanotechnologies to improve biofuel production from microalgae, including their use as a source of fuel, food supplements, and CO2 for biorefineries. Nanocatalysts for biodiesel production are compared with enzymatic catalysts, with a focus on metallic, magnetic, metal oxide or acid-functionalised nanoparticles, and carbon nanotubes.