Algae biomass: a source for energy

In last years, there was a big interest in developing new technologies to produce energy in a more efficient way and furthermore from renewable sources. The growth of population and the the consequent growth of energy request as well as the use and consumption of oils and C-based fuels and the produce of carbon dioxide raised up the research for new sources of energy based on renewables. One of the most interesting renewable source is the algae biomass. Actually there are some experimental plants that use microalgae to convert carbon dioxide or other types of feeding substances like waste water and sun light to biodiesel. These plants are called photobioreactors. The lipid content depends on the type of microalgae and could be really high up to 70 % in dry weight. This is a promising renewable sources since some types of algae can grow also in saline system and there will be the possibility to couple water remediation with the production of biodiesel and energy.