Scientists at the University of Texas at El Paso have developed a new approach to increase biofuel production from microalgae. Their research focuses on Chlorella vulgaris, a freshwater algae commonly used in biofuel studies.
Led by Dr. Hamidreza Sharifan, the team included student Luis Salmeron Covarrubias and doctoral candidate Kavitha Beluri. They investigated how adding zinc oxide nanoparticles affects algae growth and oil accumulation.
The researchers found that adding 30 to 50 milligrams per liter of these nanoparticles significantly boosted the algae’s oil content. Oil levels increased from 14% to 48%, more than tripling the original amount.
However, higher concentrations—above 50 mg/L—caused cell damage, while lower amounts didn’t maximize oil production. The team is working to refine this method for larger-scale applications and other types of microalgae.
They also created the Biofuel Sustainability Score (BSS), a tool to evaluate and optimize algae growth conditions. The BSS considers factors such as oil content, biomass, pigment retention, and cell stress.
This scoring system helps balance high oil production with maintaining healthy algae growth. Using the BSS, the optimal nanoparticle concentration was identified as 30-50 mg/L.
Microalgae are a promising source of biofuel because they produce oils that can be converted into biodiesel or other fuels. Their carbohydrates can also be fermented into bioethanol or butanol.
Some algae can contain up to 40% oil by weight, making them a highly efficient biofuel source. Additionally, algae absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, which makes the process environmentally friendly.
Compared to other renewable energy sources, algae can produce more oil on less land, enhancing sustainability. Overall, algae-based biofuels offer a promising pathway toward cleaner, renewable energy.
