Most photosynthetic organisms store and convert solar energy in an aerobic process and produce biomass for various uses. Utilization of biomass for the production of renewable energy carriers employs anaerobic conditions. This review focuses on microalgal biomass and its use for biological hydrogen and methane production. Microalgae offer several advantages compared to terrestrial plants. Strategies to maintain anaerobic environment for biohydrogen production are summarized. Efficient biogas production via anaerobic digestion is significantly affected by the biomass composition, pretreatment strategies and the parameters of the digestion process. Coupled biohydrogen and biogas production increases the efficiency and sustainability of renewable energy production.
Keywords: Anaerobic fermentation; Biogas; Biohydrogen; Biomass conversion; Microalgae; Renewable energy.
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