Nanotechnology for improved production of algal biofuels: a review

Fossil fuel depletion and carbon dioxide emissions are calling for carbon neutral energies such as algal biofuels, yet actual production of agal biofuels is limited by costly and energy-intensive manufacturing. This issue could be partly solved by adding nanomaterials to algal cultures in order to increase algal growth and lipid content, and to enhance lipid extraction. Here we review nanotechnologies to improve biofuel production from microalgae. We discuss microalgae as a source of fuel, food supplements, and CO₂ for biorefineries that produce biomethane, biohydrogen, and bioethanol. Then we compare nanocatalysts for biodiesel production with enzymatic catalysts. The major nanomaterials used are metallic, magnetic, metal oxide or acid-functionalised nanoparticles, and carbon nanotubes.