The untapped potential of microalgae: From biomolecule synthesis to bioenergy conversion

Microalgae are photosynthetic cell factories of different biomolecules including carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, for diverse bioenergy and biofuel applications. Microalgae cells exhibit rapid growth with short generation times and contain high oil content per hectare of land than any terrestrial plants. This chapter has explored the biomolecules and biochemistry of microalgae and the synthesis pathways of microalgae biomolecules. The application of media engineering and genetic tools in the microalgae sector (such as open raceway pond and photobioreactor) makes it possible to produce an outsized biomass and lead in energy sectors. However, the exploitation of microalgae has not sufficiently reached a commercial level. Also, microalgae biomolecules have been used in the manufacture of various biofuels applications (e.g., biodiesel, bioethanol, biohydrogen, and biomethane). Thus, considering the inadequate supply of fossil fuels and ongoing climate change, microalgae can be considered as an ideal solution for the energy crisis in the future.