Biodiesel synthesis from microalgae using immobilized Aspergillus niger whole cell lipase biocatalyst. (January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Guldhe, Abhishek; Singh, Poonam; Kumari, Sheena; Rawat, Ismail; Permaul, Kugen; Bux, Faizal
• Is Part Of: Renewable energy. Volume 85(2016)
• Page Start: 1002
• Page End: 1010
• Publication Date: 2016-01
• Subjects: Whole cell lipase -- Microalgae -- Scenedesmus obliquus -- Biodiesel -- Aspergillus niger; Renewable energy sources -- Periodicals; Power resources -- Periodicals; Énergies renouvelables -- Périodiques; Ressources énergétiques -- Périodiques; 333.794
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2015.07.059
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0960-1481

Abstract

Abstract: Whole cell lipase catalysis and microalgal feedstocks make overall biodiesel synthesis greener and sustainable. In this study, a novel approach of whole cell lipase-catalyzed conversion of Scenedesmus obliquus lipids was investigated for biodiesel synthesis. Microalgal biodiesel was characterized for its fuel properties. Optimization of process parameters for immobilized Aspergillus niger whole cell lipase-catalyzed biodiesel synthesis was carried out. Highest biodiesel conversion of 53.76% was achieved from S. obliquus lipids at 35 °C, methanol to oil ratio of 5:1 and 2.5% water content based on oil weight with 6 BSPs (Biomass support particles). Step-wise methanol addition was applied to account for methanol tolerance, which improved biodiesel conversion upto 80.97% and gave 90.82 ± 1.43% yield. Immobilized A. niger lipase can be used for 2 batches without significant loss in conversion efficiency. Most of the fuel properties of biodiesel met the specifications set by international standards. Highlights: First report on Aspergillus niger whole cell lipase-catalyzed microalgal lipid conversion. Microalgal feedstock Scenedesmus obliquus was cultivated in an open circular pond. Step-wise methanol addition improved biodiesel conversion. At optimized conditions 80.97% biodiesel conversion and 90.82% yield was achieved. Fuel properties of biodiesel showed compliance with the international standards.