Microalgae biodiesel: A systematic review in Iran

The use of fossil fuels has faced the world with new challenges, so that renewable energy has become a part of the world's total energy consumption. Iran is rich in natural energy resources and can consider for using the renewable fuels like biofuels as an alternative to non-renewable. This study has two purposes. First, it purposes to provide an overview on all studies conducted in Iran in the field of biodiesel production from microalgae and fish waste. Second, it purposes to study the biodiesel production potential from those two sources in Bushehr province. Overall, 109 peer-reviewed articles were retrieved, of which 15 original articles were included. The results of the systematic review showed that biodiesel production research from algae and fish waste in Iran has increased in the last ten years. In addition, the minimum and maximum algae lipid content was obtained equal 17.5 and 52%, respectively. The lowest and highest amount of oil productivity was obtained equal 0.026 and 0.154 g/l.day, respectively. Also, the biodiesel production potential of Bushehr from aquatic algae and fish waste was estimated at about 196.1 kt, which is equal to 19.25% of the total diesel fuel requirements of Bushehr and 1.2% of the total diesel consumption of Iran in transportation sector. In general, the total revenue of $ 118.8 million from the aquatic microalgae and fish waste of Bushehr province can be obtained. The study concludes with biodiesel production policy concepts and avenues for future researches.

Automated summary

The study summarized the latest developments in Iran in the production of biodiesel from microalgae and fish waste, and evaluated the biodiesel potential from these two sources in Bushehr province. The results showed an increase in research on biodiesel production in Iran in the past decade, and estimated a total revenue of approximately $118.8 million from aquatic microalgae and fish waste in Bushehr province.