BIODIESEL PRODUCTION FROM MICROALGAE

Algal biodiesel represents a promising renewable alternative for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels due to its exceptionally high oil productivity. In this study, seven algal strains were isolated from diverse natural habitats, of which three microalgae (MG-1, MG-2, and MG-3) were selected for oil extraction using the hexane ether method. Oil yield was higher at boiling temperature for all strains, with yields of 31 ml, 23 ml, and 16 ml from 2.5 g biomass of MG-1, MG-2, and MG-3, respectively.Microscopic identification revealed MG-1, MG-2, and MG-3 as Cyanobacteria spp.MG1 Phormidium spp., and Scenedesmus spp.Followed by molecular identification of most efficient one, the sequence was submitted to GenBank under accession number Cyanobacteria spp.MG1 PP702711. Biodiesel was produced via alkali-catalyzed transesterification, yielding 4 ml biodiesel from 5 ml oil of Cyanobacteria spp.MG1which showed the highest oil and biodiesel productivity among the tested strains. FTIR analysis confirmed the chemical composition of the biodiesel, and partial purification was achieved using a charcoal column. Biodiesel characterization indicated a cetane number of 54, demonstrating that algal biodiesel, particularly from Cyanobacteria spp.MG1is an efficient and eco-friendly alternative to petroleum diesel.