Recent developments in microalgae for biodiesel production

Biodiesel is a renewable and environmentally friendly alternative fuel, which is comprised of mono-alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from renewable resources. However, biodiesel production is dependent on available feedstocks and the growth of biodiesel as a petroleum diesel substitute is limited by the expensive cost of feedstock. Microalgae are among the most promising of nonfood based biomass fuel feedstock alternatives. Algal biofuels production is challenged by limited oil content, growth rate and economical cultivation and extraction techniques. This article summarizes the current state of research related to potential algal strains, cultivation conditions, biomass production rates and technologies for extraction of algal oil and production of biodiesel.