Algae biofuels: versatility for the future of bioenergy

Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2012 Jun;23(3):346-51. doi: 10.1016/j.copbio.2011.10.013. Epub 2011 Nov 19.

Abstract

The world continues to increase its energy use, brought about by an expanding population and a desire for a greater standard of living. This energy use coupled with the realization of the impact of carbon dioxide on the climate, has led us to reanalyze the potential of plant-based biofuels. Of the potential sources of biofuels the most efficient producers of biomass are the photosynthetic microalgae and cyanobacteria. These versatile organisms can be used for the production of bioethanol, biodiesel, biohydrogen, and biogas. In fact, one of the most economic methods for algal biofuels production may be the combined biorefinery approach where multiple biofuels are produced from one biomass source.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biofuels* / economics
  • Biomass
  • Carbon Dioxide / metabolism
  • Cyanobacteria / metabolism*
  • Microalgae / metabolism*
  • Photosynthesis

Substances

  • Biofuels
  • Carbon Dioxide