%0 Journal Article
%T Microalgae Lipid and Biodiesel Production: A Brazilian Challenge
%A Carolina T. Miranda
%A Roberta F. Pinto
%A Daniel V. N. de Lima
%A Carolina V. Viegas
%A Simone M. da Costa
%A Sandra M. F. O. Azevedo
%J American Journal of Plant Sciences
%P 2522-2533
%@ 2158-2750
%D 2015
%I Scientific Research Publishing
%R 10.4236/ajps.2015.615254
%X Global increases in atmospheric CO2 and climate change are drawing considerable attention to
identify sources of energy with lower environmental impact than those currently in use. Biodiesel
production from microalgae lipids can, in the future, occupy a prominent place in energy generation
because it represents a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based fuels. Several species of
microalgae produce large amounts of lipids per biomass unit. Triacylglycerol is the fatty acid used
for biodiesel production and the main source of energy reserves in microalgae. The current literature
indicates that nutrient limitations can lead to triacylglycerol accumulation in different species
of microalgae. Further efforts in microalgae screening for biodiesel production are needed to
discover a native microalgae that will be feasible for biodiesel production in terms of biomass
productivity and oil. This revision focuses in the biotechnological potential and viability of biodiesel
production from microalgae. Brazil is located in a tropical region with high light rates and
adequate average temperatures for the growth of microalgae. The wide availability of bodies of
water and land will allow the country to produce renewable energy from microalgae.
%K Biodiesel
%K Microalgae
%K Lipids
%K Cultivation
%U http://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?PaperID=60130