Optimizing Biofuel Yields from Spirogyra Microalgae: The Role of Extraction Techniques and Environmental Factors
Optimizing Biofuel Yields from Spirogyra Microalgae: The Role of Extraction Techniques and Environmental Factors
Muhammad Waqas1*, Razia Bashir1, Haroon Ali2, Arslan Shahzad1 and Tehmina Saddique3
ABSTRACT
The increasing challenges of global warming, fossil fuel depletion and rising petroleum prices underscore the urgent need for renewable, eco-friendly, and sustainable biofuels. Fossil fuels, which currently meet over 80-85% of global energy demands, are rapidly depleting, with Pakistan heavily dependent on them for nearly 88% of its energy needs. This study aimed to evaluate the bioenergy potential of Spirogyra microalgae for biodiesel production, offering a sustainable solution to fossil fuel dependence and environmental degradation. Lipids from microalgae Spirogyra were extracted using n-Hexane as a solvent by both the hot plate magnetic stirrer method and simple solvent extraction method. The effects of habitat nature, n-Hexane to algal biomass ratio, algal biomass particle size, and contact time on the percentage yield of extracted lipids were studied and analyzed. The study showed that algae from agricultural runoff had the highest lipid extraction efficiency at 3.9%, while industrial effluent samples had the lowest at 3.56%. The hot plate magnetic stirrer method achieved 1.38% efficiency. An algae to n-Hexane ratio of 1:3 and smaller particle sizes yielded higher lipid extractions. The findings suggest that the Hot Plate Magnetic Stirrer method is more effective in lipid extraction from Spirogyra microalgae for biodiesel production. This underscores the importance of optimizing extraction methods for maximum lipid yield, contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy production. This study highlights the importance of nature-inspired solutions in addressing the complex challenges of energy security and environmental degradation. By harnessing the potential of Spirogyra microalgae for biodiesel production, it offers a pathway towards sustainable energy production and environmental conservation.
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