Biodiesel production from microbial lipid: Use of artificial lichens in a biorefinery context

• Grant number: 25/02464-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Microbiology - Applied Microbiology
• Principal Investigator: Ana Karine Furtado de Carvalho
• Grantee: Giovanna Martins Sant'Ana
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia de Lorena (EEL). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Lorena , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Biodiesel production faces challenges related to competition with the food chain, since these correspond to the main lipid source for production, and large-scale production. In this context, microalgae, due to their fast-growing characteristics and ability to develop in inhospitable environments, emerge as a promising raw material for the production of third-generation biofuels. However, the microalgae cultivation process is limited by the low biomass concentration and low oil content, in addition to requiring energy-intensive harvesting technologies. To this end, the use of filamentous fungi, such as Mucor circinelloides, as bioflocculants, may represent an innovative solution. These fungi are capable of forming aggregates with microalgae, facilitating harvesting and increasing the efficiency of lipid accumulation. Thus, this project aims to optimize the biodiesel production process, reducing harvesting stages and favoring a greater accumulation of lipids, contributing to the viability of more efficient and sustainable production of biofuels.