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Microalgae biodiesel and macroalgae bioethanol: the solar conversion challenge for industrial renewable fuels
Book chapter

Microalgae biodiesel and macroalgae bioethanol: the solar conversion challenge for industrial renewable fuels

N.R. Moheimani, M.P. McHenry and P. Mehrani
Natural and artificial photosynthesis: solar power as an energy source
John Wiley & Sons
2013
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118659892.ch13
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Abstract

Large-scale biofuel production from a range of biomass feedstocks (i.e., oil seeds, tallow, sugar cane, corn, etc.) is technically achievable, yet, a fundamental challenge is reducing the high costs of production. This chapter summarizes the current advances and challenges of novel biofuel technologies and feedstocks, their relationship to nonrenewable and renewable inputs, and the wider advantages and disadvantages they may be expected to produce. Present technological development in the relatively mature solar—electric industry tends to focus on cost reduction of existing technical applications and designs. Macroalgae and microalgae biofuel production systems have a biological advantage in requiring less arable land than conventional agricultural biofuels. Yet, generating efficient commercial microalgae or macroalgae biofuels will require large investment in research and development through the entire production chain. Species-specific characteristics, such as high biofuel precursor productivities and suitable cultivation and harvesting methods, are vital to the success of mass biofuel production facilities.

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