Microalgal biomass for bioethanol fermentation: Implications for hypersaline systems with an industrial focus

The potential of microalgae biomass as a feedstock for bioethanol fermentation has been widely considered in recent years. Yet, to date, only a modest level of research has been reported in this area. In all likelihood, the generation of a sustainable, sufficient level of biomass for biofuel production will need to be undertaken in saline water, and potentially under hypersaline conditions, to circumvent reliance on fresh water. However, the processing challenges associated with the fermentation of hypersaline biomass have yet to be adequately addressed. This review examines developments thus far for producing bioethanol from microalgae, indicating alternative means by which hypersaline microalgal biomass may be utilised, and provides a framework in which the industrial potential for sourcing such biomass should be considered.

► Hypersaline microalgae biomass is a potential feedstock for bioethanol fermentation.
► New enzymes and microorganisms needed for processing hypersaline biomass.
► Microalgal biomass compares well to sugarcane for bioethanol.
► Feasible microalgal biomass requires integrated processes for energy co-products.