A multidisciplinary review of Tetradesmus obliquus: a microalga suitable for large-scale biomass production and emerging environmental applications

Microalgae biomass is among one of the most promising sustainable raw materials for many industrial sectors especially biodiesel production. Although a great diversity of microalgae species has been described and isolated, few have been used for large-scale cultivation. This review presents a multidisciplinary overview of studies on Tetradesmus obliquus - a freshwater microalga suitable for large-scale production and emerging environmental applications. It reviews the taxonomic history of T. obliquus and its potential commercial applications, including cultivations techniques and environmental parameters, production systems, harvesting and drying of biomass, and its biochemical composition. In addition, a model refinery for T. obliquus is proposed that combines the main productive bioprocesses. Finally, a bibliometric analysis is presented and opportunities for future research with T. obliquus are identified.

Automated summary

Tetradesmus obliquus is considered as a promising microalgae suitable for large-scale production and environmental applications, with potential commercial value. The review covers its taxonomic history, commercial applications, production technologies, etc. Furthermore, a model refinery integrating main productive bioprocesses is proposed.