Effect of mixotrophy on lipid content and fatty acids methyl esters profile by Chlorella zofingiensis grown in media containing sugar cane molasses

Abstract

The effect of mixotrophy on lipid content and fatty acids methyl ester (FAME) profile by Chlorella zofingiensis is investigated in this work. For this purpose, growth media containing specific concentrations of sugar cane molasses, are used to sustain microalgae growth. Lipids have been extracted from microalgae and then characterized. Specifically, all FAMEs have been quantitatively and qualitatively analyzed in order to improve biodiesel properties. Results showed that using specific concentrations of molasses the total lipid content increased up to 20% compared to the control. FAME profile revealed a 97% composition in C16-C18 where unsaturated fatty acids reached a high portion (77%) when using 2 g L -1 molasses. Main characteristics of biodiesel obtainable from the algal lipids are also evaluated. Based on the biomass and lipid productivity achieved during the experiments as well as on the compliance of the corresponding biodiesel characteristics with its international standards, it can be stated that molasses waste is a viable option as a cheap medium for the cultivation of Chlorella zofingiensis .