Biodiesel from microalgae

Abstract Microalgae have been widely researched and are proven to be a promising feedstock for biodiesel production. Tremendous efforts have been made on microalgal biology, strain screening, cultivation, harvesting, and postharvest processing. Strategies for commercialization are under development by optimizing the overall utilization of microalgae for both biofuels and value-added bioproducts. In this chapter, the fundamentals of microalgae as a feedstock for biodiesel production are illustrated. Strain selection and cultivation requirements are considered from the processing aspects. Methods and technologies of preconversion preparation, including dewatering and drying, cell rupture and lipid extraction, are discussed. Novel processing processes, such as in situ methanolysis under sub/supercritical methanol conditions, are also covered to reflect the advancement in microalgal biodiesel production. This chapter is intended for readers who have had some technical background in microalgal lipids-based biodiesel, and as a reference for college students and other technical personnel in the fields of biofuels, bioresources, and other related fields.