Microalgae as a source of biofuels

A number of bio-feedstocks are currently being experimented for biodiesel production and usage. Algal biomass has emerged as one of the most promising sources of biodiesel production. Although research into algae as a potential source of biodiesel is not new, the current oil crises and fast depleting fossil oil reserves have made it more imperative for organizations and countries to invest more time and efforts into research on suitable renewable energy options such as algal oil. Algal fuel as a viable alternative to traditional fuel (diesel) is renewable, carbon neutral, economically sustainable and environmentally friendly. Algal oil can beextracted with methanol via transesterification reaction in the presence of a catalyst to yield biodiesel. The biodiesel produced can be used as jet fuel and as source of fuel in other transportation systems. Finally, since algal oil is non-edible, it does not compromise edible oil which is for human consumption thus, erasing the food versus fuel debate. An attempt is made to review the potential and prospects of microalgae as a sustainable energy provider, thus, providing a stimulus to initiate more research in this area.Keywords: Biodiesel, algae, transesterification, renewable feedstock