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A Critical Review of Growth Media Recycling to Enhance the Economics and Sustainability of Algae Cultivation

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  • Neha Arora

    (Patel College of Global Sustainability, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA)

  • Enlin Lo

    (Patel College of Global Sustainability, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA)

  • Noah Legall

    (Patel College of Global Sustainability, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA)

  • George P. Philippidis

    (Patel College of Global Sustainability, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA)

Abstract

Microalgae hold promise as a sustainable source of biofuels and bioproducts but their commercial development is impeded by high cultivation costs, primarily for growth nutrients, and concerns about the water-intensive nature of algae cultivation. As a result, minimizing water and nutrient input is imperative to reducing algal operating costs, while enhancing the sustainability of future algal biorefineries. However, spent media recycling often results in the accumulation of growth inhibitors, such as free fatty acids, polysaccharides, polyunsaturated aldehydes, and humic acid, which negatively affect algal growth and productivity. In this review, we critically assess media recycling research findings to assess the advantages and disadvantages of spent media reuse for a wide range of algae strains. Particular emphasis is placed on strategies to overcome growth inhibition through spent media treatment processes, such as ultraviolet oxidation, activated carbon, ultrasonication, microfiltration, crop rotation, and nutrient replenishment.

Suggested Citation

  • Neha Arora & Enlin Lo & Noah Legall & George P. Philippidis, 2023. "A Critical Review of Growth Media Recycling to Enhance the Economics and Sustainability of Algae Cultivation," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(14), pages 1-15, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:16:y:2023:i:14:p:5378-:d:1194205
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. M'Arimi, M.M. & Mecha, C.A. & Kiprop, A.K. & Ramkat, R., 2020. "Recent trends in applications of advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) in bioenergy production: Review," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 121(C).
    2. Arjen Y. Hoekstra, 2017. "Water Footprint Assessment: Evolvement of a New Research Field," Water Resources Management: An International Journal, Published for the European Water Resources Association (EWRA), Springer;European Water Resources Association (EWRA), vol. 31(10), pages 3061-3081, August.
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