Assessment of the energy potential as a solid biofuel of Sargassum spp. considering sustainability indicator

Abstract

The present study evaluates the potential use of pelagic Sargassum spp. as a solid biofuel. Massive landings of these brown algae across the Atlantic have produced ecologic and economic problems since 2011. Sargassum biomass valorization could compensate for economic losses and reduce environmental impacts. The production of biofuels could be one of its applications. This research consists of two stages: (a) the physical-energy characterization: morphology, humidity, ash, volatiles, and calorific value, and (b) an estimate of the energy potential of these algae, considering their removal from 600 kilometers of coastline along the Mexican Caribbean coast. An analysis of sustainability indicators considering socioeconomic aspects shows the benefits of using this resource in comparison with other types of low-cost biofuels that produce low environmental impact. The results show the pertinence of using Sargassum spp. as an alternative energy resource with low cost, low environmental impact, high accessibility, and added value for localities along the Mexican Caribbean.