Abstract

INTEGRATING MICROALGAE-BASED WASTEWATER TREATMENT FOR SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTAL AND ENERGY SOLUTIONSA REVIEW

Gonepalli T. D.* and Oroszi T. O.

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Abstract

Microalgae can grow under various environmental circumstances; they are a potential source of sustainable biomass feedstock for the production of biofuels. The most costly and challenging stage in creating microalgal biofuel is the mass culture of microalgae. Wastewater contains the nutrients and water necessary for algae to grow. In addition to producing profitable goods, microalgae provide a low-cost, environmentally friendly way to clean advanced (Waste) water. The process of algal metabolism and cultivation is explored, specifically concerning the use of microalgae to remove metals. Additionally, biomass conversion techniques are investigated for converting algae into various forms of energy, such as fertilizers, biodiesel, bioethanol, and biohydrogen. Both organic and inorganic impurities can be effectively removed from water using the mixotrophic technique; the operating conditions can be regulated and photobioreactors are effective for cultivation. Algal biomass is economically significant for aquaculture, animal feed, health supplements, greenhouse gas reduction, and mitigation of global warming. The process of converting algal biomass into energy, biofuel, biodiesel, biogas, biohydrogen, and bioethanol is described in detail. The interaction between biotic and abiotic elements in wastewater treatment is also examined. Microalgae have been applied in agricultural and environmental contexts; in particular, they have been used to produce biomass for soil augmentation and absorb nutrients, highlighting their potential benefits to environmental stewardship and sustainability.

Keywords: Microalgae, Wastewater, Cultivation, Harvesting, Algal biomass, Biodiesel, Biofuels.