Co-production of biodiesel and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3 fatty acid) from microalgae, Desmodesmus sp. MCC34

Abstract

Microalgae are a potential source of biofuel and nutraceuticals. In the present study, Desmodesmussp. MCC34 was identified as a promising species for biodiesel and omega-3 fatty acid productions after initial screening since it had displayed the highest lipid productivity of 15.9 mg L−1 day−1 and alpha-linolenic acid of 24% of total fatty acids. Using silver ion chromatography, 92% of pure alpha-linolenic acid was selectively removed from total lipid of Desmodesmussp. MCC34, while the residual oil having a higher amount of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids displayed biodiesel property adhering to international standards, suggesting fuel co-application.