A Mini Review on Pyrolysis of Natural Algae for Bio-Fuel and Chemicals

Abstract

The disposal and use of natural algae have recently been the subject of great interest, due to increasing concern for environmental protection and resource utilization. In this paper, a mini review of recent research on the pyrolysis of natural algae, especially the algae from water blooms, is presented. The chemical compositions of the natural algae are summarized, and the pyrolysis properties of different compositions are reviewed. Non-catalytic, catalytic, and integrated catalytic processes are reviewed. Different ideas and methods for the production of bio-fuel or chemicals are discussed. Apparently, deoxygenation and denitrogenation are highly necessary for algae-based bio-fuel and catalysts play an important role in these processes. In addition, the integrated catalytic process, which involves catalysis and other operation conditions aside from the thermal treatment under inert atmosphere, shows potential for the valorization of algae-based bio-oil. Based on the recent concept and progress, the research gaps are discussed, followed by the challenges and proposals to achieve high-value utilization of the natural algae.

Pyrolysis-GCMS of Spirulina platensis: Evaluation of biomasses cultivated under autotrophic and mixotrophic conditions

“…The denitrogenation processes are complex and the reaction mechanisms are poorly understood [ 11 , 12 ]. The nitrogenates compounds obtained by pyrolysis of microalgae biomass can be useful to obtain some value-added compounds from the bio-oil that could be treated as feedstock to obtain chemicals through further treatment, rather than simply treated as fuel [ 55 ]. Depending on the application interest, microalgae cultivation mode and pyrolysis temperature are targeted to favor a specific process route to prioritize the formation of a particular chemical of interest.…”

Comparison of Antioxidants to Increase the Oxidation Stability of Pyrolysis Oils of Three Plastics Using Iodine Value

“…To increase the oxidation stability, some of the distillates were mixed with phenolic compounds known to have antioxidant properties. Another part of the distillates was mixed with algal pyrolysis oil, which probably also contains phenolic compounds [34][35][36] that can delay oxidation processes.…”

Emerging Sustainability in Carbon Capture and Use Strategies for V4 Countries via Biochemical Pathways: A Review

“…Oil from algae contains more oxygenous and nitrogenous compounds than oil produced from lignocellulosic biomass. Oxygen in oil can cause acidity, corrosion, and low calorific value [83], while nitrogen in oil can produce NOx in combustion [84]. The oil properties in the pyrolysis process are improved by adding a catalyst, e.g., zeolites [75,83].…”

“…Oxygen in oil can cause acidity, corrosion, and low calorific value [83], while nitrogen in oil can produce NOx in combustion [84]. The oil properties in the pyrolysis process are improved by adding a catalyst, e.g., zeolites [75,83]. Used oil as fuel or chemical needs to apply rectification or extraction process [83].…”

“…The oil properties in the pyrolysis process are improved by adding a catalyst, e.g., zeolites [75,83]. Used oil as fuel or chemical needs to apply rectification or extraction process [83]. Char can be recycled as a fuel in combustion and gasification processes.…”