Lignocellulose, algal biomass, biofuels and biohydrogen: a review

The high rate of depletion of fossil fuels and the negative effects caused by their use in industries and combustion engines are calling for biofuels. Alternatively, plant, algae and microbes are renewable biomasses for the generation of biofuels. Choosing a suitable biomass is of great importance for biofuel generation in good quantity and quality. Recently, molecular genetics has been implemented to increase biofuel productivity by improving desirable traits in plants, algae and microbes. Here, we review biofuel feedstocks with focus on lignocellulose, algae and microbes for production of biofuels, biogas and biohydrogen. We present genetic engineering approaches. Microalgae appear as the most promising species for combined biofuel production, wastewater treatment and CO2 fixation. Metabolic engineering can improve algal and microbial strains for the production of biofuels. Residual algal biomass can be recycled for the generation of other products.

Automated summary

The high rate of depletion of fossil fuels and the negative effects have led to a call for biofuels. Plant, algae and microbes are renewable biomasses for biofuel generation. Microalgae show promise for combined biofuel production, wastewater treatment and CO2 fixation. Metabolic engineering can improve strains for biofuel production.