Flash hydrolysis of microalgae (Scenedesmus sp.) for protein extraction and production of biofuels intermediates

- Flash hydrolysis with subcritical water (200-350 °C) extracts proteins from microalgae.
- The process uses wet algae without additional chemicals.
- Proteins are hydrolyzed to water-soluble fractions (peptides and amino acids) in a few seconds of residence time.
- A lipid-rich solid (biofuels intermediate) is produced.
- Total nitrogen content between 60-80 wt% on dry basis in microalgae could be extracted.