Innovative Strategies for Microalgae-Based Bioproduct Extraction in Biorefineries: Current Trends and Future Solutions Integrating Wastewater Treatment

Abstract

Recently, microalgae have emerged as a promising feedstock for biorefineries, offering significant potential for producing high-value bio-based products in areas such as biofuels, nutraceuticals, and environmental management. This study, therefore, undertook an in-depth bibliometric review of 535 articles out of 736 publications published between 2010 and 2024 and sourced from the Scopus database. With the use of the VOS-viewer software, this work identified the major trends within significant research areas in terms of focus and global collaboration networks that pertain to microalgae-based bioproducts. Also, it explored cutting-edge techniques for bioproduct extraction and processing that are both efficient and eco-friendly. This analysis also showed a remarkable growth in output, with peaks in the year 2022, reflecting an interest in renewable energy and methods of sustainable production. The main keywords identified deal with subject areas such as energy, environmental science, and chemical engineering. The dominant technologies referred to dealing with lipid extraction, bio-crude production, and nutrient recycling. While addressing cost, scale-up, and environmental concerns, there is still a need to improve extraction techniques like ultrasonic treatment, supercritical fluid treatment, and enzymatic treatment. Other emerging areas of research include genetic engineering and integrated biorefinery models, which are expected to provide a roadmap for future advancements in the field. The challenges innate in meeting this through innovation and optimization will be the key to realizing the full potential of microalgae to contribute to the circular bioeconomy.