A review on third-generation biofuels from marine diatoms

Abstract

Modern life increases the consumption of fossil fuels leading to a decrease in natural resources. Therefore, an alternative energy sources like biowastes - food waste, agricultural waste, municipal waste, etc. energy tree sources like edible and non-edible oily seeds; and various aquatic plants were also identified as energy sources. In recent years, many efforts have been made to determine the possibility of using algae as a source of bio-oil and biogas for energy production. Algae are considered as large and diverse group, often autotrophic organisms, ranging from unicellular to multicellular. They can produce far greater amounts of biomass and lipids per hectare than any other type of terrestrial biomass-producing organism. Due to their global presence, diatoms are known for producer of biofuels in recent years. Another energy sources is biodiesel, which is used as a sustainable form of diesel fuel derived from natural sources. Diatomic biofuels are among the third generation biofuels that ultimately contribute about 60-90% less greenhouse gas emissions than traditional fuel sources.