Importance of Microalgae and Municipal Waste in Bioenergy Products Hierarchy—Integration of Biorefineries for Microalgae and Municipal Waste Processing: A Review

Kate Kim, Farzad Hourfar, Abdul Halim Bin Abdul Razik, Muhammad Rizwan, Ali Almansoori, Michael Fowler () and Ali Elkamel ()
Additional contact information
Kate Kim: Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Farzad Hourfar: Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Abdul Halim Bin Abdul Razik: Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP), Pekan 26600, Malaysia
Muhammad Rizwan: Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Bahrain, Zallaq 32038, Bahrain
Ali Almansoori: Department of Chemical Engineering, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 127788, United Arab Emirates
Michael Fowler: Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
Ali Elkamel: Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada

Energies, 2023, vol. 16, issue 17, 1-39

Abstract: In the context of global advancements, the imperative of a sustainable energy supply looms large. Biomass, an adaptable and renewable resource, has garnered attention for its potential contributions, although economic uncertainties persist due to the intricate web of processing pathways. In response, the biorefinery concept emerges as a structured strategy to optimize the processing of microalgae and municipal solid waste (MSW), capitalizing on their multifaceted potential to yield diverse end-products. This review underscores the critical significance of a cohesive biorefinery paradigm that unites the processing of microalgae and MSW, unveiling their capacity to generate a spectrum of high-value products. The utilization of mixed-integer linear programming paves the way for an optimal biorefinery model that navigates through complex decisions. Challenges encompass the array of diverse feedstocks and the preliminary nature of data availability. The overarching goal of this research is to discern optimal pathways for the conversion of MSW and microalgae into energy and valuable products, with a focus on enhancing waste utilization and augmenting the energy supply. In the broader landscape, this comprehensive review advances strategies for sustainable energy generation and waste management, invigorating innovative approaches to shape future progress. By illuminating pathways towards maximizing the potential of biomass resources, this review contributes to the ongoing discourse on sustainable energy and waste utilization.

Keywords: biorefinery; microalgae processing; municipal solid waste; superstructure formation; optimization top of form (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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