Algae for Biofuels, Biomass and Fine Chemicals

Oil is a finite resource. With growing awareness of the need for renewable energy resources, microalgae offer considerable potential as producers of biofuels, particularly as they do not compete (as do higher plant biofuel crops) with food crops for agricultural land. In addition, they are increasingly exploited as biotechnological sources of biomass, fine chemicals, pharmaceutical and nutritional additives. The industrial use of microalgae is a new, but fast developing, field, with huge investments by major companies such as Shell, BP, Exxon and the Craig Venter Institute. As is characteristic of a new subject area, the literature is scattered, often in specialist journals and not easy to assimilate. The aim of this book is to provide an integrated review of current understanding and future potential of algae in these sectors. The authors start from fundamental biochemical and physiological principles to develop an understanding of the scientific and economic principles that underpin the biotechnological use of microalgae. The book covers the many energy products from microalgae including biodiesel, ethanol, hydrogen and methane, addressing associated cultivation and process challenges. It also describes the growing list of microalgal products and applications such as fish and animal feed, pharmaceutical and cosmetics. Overall it provides an objective assessment of the potential for algae as biofuels, and demonstrates that commercial viability is closely linked to the other potential uses of algae. The book will serve as a course textbook at the advanced levels, with sufficient detail to act as a reference text for industry professionals and researchers.