Chapter 1
Adaptation of Chitosan-Based Harvesting Methods for Flocculation of Microalgae
Mainavi Patel,
Hirak Parikh,
Gayatri Dave,
Mainavi Patel
P D Patel Institute of Applied Sciences, Charotar University of Science and Technology, Anand, Gujarat, India
Search for more papers by this authorHirak Parikh
Department of Earth and Environmental Systems, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana, USA
Search for more papers by this authorGayatri Dave
P D Patel Institute of Applied Sciences, Charotar University of Science and Technology, Anand, Gujarat, India
Search for more papers by this authorMainavi Patel,
Hirak Parikh,
Gayatri Dave,
Mainavi Patel
P D Patel Institute of Applied Sciences, Charotar University of Science and Technology, Anand, Gujarat, India
Search for more papers by this authorHirak Parikh
Department of Earth and Environmental Systems, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana, USA
Search for more papers by this authorGayatri Dave
P D Patel Institute of Applied Sciences, Charotar University of Science and Technology, Anand, Gujarat, India
Search for more papers by this authorBook Editor(s):Vandana Vinayak,
Richard Gordon,
Vandana Vinayak
School of Applied Sciences, Dr. Hari Singh Gour Vishwavidhyalaya (A Central University), Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, India
Search for more papers by this authorRichard Gordon
Gulf Specimen Marine Lab & Aquarium, Florida, USA
Search for more papers by this authorFirst published: 10 March 2025
Summary
This chapter addresses the potential of microalgae, focusing on diatoms because of their distinctive features and high nutritional value. Single-celled photosynthetic microalgae have been around for three billion years. They have also been used as a food source for humans over 2000 years, with Spirulina gaining global popularity as a dietary supplement. Diatoms’ high lipid content makes them an excellent source for biofuel production, offering a renewable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fossil fuels.
The cultivation of microalgae poses challenges due to their small size, low settling rate, and susceptibility to damage during harvesting. Various harvesting methods, such as physical (mechanical), chemical, and biological techniques, have been explored to address these challenges. Flocculation, a widely used method, involves the formation of aggregates (flocs) to separate microalgae from the growth medium or water. The natural polysaccharide chitosan has gained attention as an eco-friendly and effective flocculant for microalgae harvesting. Studies have shown the potential benefits of combining chitosan with other techniques, such as electroflotation, electrolysis, and magnetic nanoparticles, to enhance harvesting efficiency and reduce processing costs. The chapter emphasizes the significance of interdisciplinary research to enhance microalgae cultivation and harvesting methods, unlocking their full potential for sustainable applications in various industries.
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