Ultrasound-intensified biodiesel production from algal biomass: a review

摘要

Energy needs and environmental concerns are leading to the search for alternative renewable fuels such as biodiesel. Biodiesel from microalgae has recently gained attention due to the drawbacks of other feedstocks such as edible oils. Recent research is focussing on techniques to convert feedstock into quality biodiesel in a cost-effective way. Here, we review conventional and in situ biodiesel synthesis from microalgae. We present the various catalysts and ultrasonic reactors. We found that biodiesel production through ultrasonication assisted in situ processing of wet microalgae is at least three times more expensive than biodiesel production through conventional mechanisms from feedstocks such as waste cooking oil. Finally, we discuss the feasibility of ultrasound-intensified biodiesel production from microalgae.