Green heterogeneous noble nanocatalysts and catalyst-support materials for the production of microalgal biofuels

The escalating global population has intensified reliance on fossil fuels, leading to a surge in anthropogenic emissions detrimental to human health and the environment. Biofuels offer a sustainable, eco-friendly, and renewable alternative. Among various feedstocks, microalgae stand out for their high biomass productivity and ability to sequester CO₂, contributing to climate change mitigation. The integration of nanocatalysts in microalgae-based biofuel production has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance yield and conversion efficiency. This review outlines the diverse nanocatalysts and catalyst support materials employed to optimize microalgal biofuel production. It also examines nanomaterial synthesis techniques and addresses key challenges related to the stability, cost, durability, and scalability of nanocatalysts. While nanocatalysts offer substantial advantages, their potential environmental impact warrants caution. Hence, future research must focus on developing efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally benign nanocatalysts.