Integrated algal biorefinery approach using microalgae grown in domestic wastewater for biofuels and biochar synthesis for iron oxide reduction

Ashokkumar Veeramuthu

Abstract

In this present scenario, the reduction of CO2 emissions is a foremost issue for environmental sustainability due to the deteriorative atmospheric greenhouse effects and global warming. Thus, scientists are looking forward to finding a solution to the interrelated problems of population growth, energy scarcity, and global warming is one of the most important challenges of the 21st century. In this context, the photosynthetic microalgae are considered as a potential organism to fix the atmospheric CO2 at a faster growth rate compared to other land plants. This study demonstrates an integrated biorefinery approach on domestic wastewater treatment coupled with biofuel production. Besides, another important part of this study is to explore the biofuels extracted residues for biochar production and metallic iron conversion from iron oxides. The alga was cultivated in domestic sewage at a large scale, the results revealed that the maximum biomass yield of 24.6 g/m2 was recorded on the 18th day at semi-continuous mode. The biofuel production was investigated and achieved a significant quantity of yield. Furthermore, the lipid extracted residual biomass was pyrolyzed and obtained biochar. The iron oxide reduction was successfully carried our using biochar through the thermogravimetric analyzer. The results showed harvest 990â?? supported iron oxide reduction