Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Energy-intensive drying or cell-disruption processes in lipid extraction procedures reduce efficiency and increase the cost involved in producing biofuels from microalgae. Recently, a simple method was proposed for extracting lipids directly from microalgae by utilizing liquefied ammonia (NH 3 (l)), which eliminates the energy-intensive processes. In the present study, the versatility of NH 3 (l) extraction was assessed by applying it to six microalgal species with different contents of lipids. This method directly separated 25.6–70.6 wt % of the dry weight of the sample as crude extract. The total fatty acid methyl ester yield was 5.5–17.4 wt %, comparable to or exceeding that obtained by traditional approaches. The crude extract was highly enriched with valuable C12–C24 fatty acids. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy showed that after NH 3 (l) extraction, the cellular structure of the residue was preserved. These results suggest that employing the NH 3 (l) extraction method enhances applicability and consequently increases the process value by separating components into extract and useful residual solids.
Source: ACS Omega
Authors: Kiyoshi Sakuragi, Maromu Otaka
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,935
OpenAlex ID: W4409565109