Exploring the Potential of Desmodesmus sp. KNUA231 for Bioenergy and Biofertilizer Applications and Its Adaptability to Environmental Stress
Source abstract
Abstract
As global energy demand continues to rise, microalgae have gained attention as a promising feedstock for biofuel production due to their environmental adaptability and renewable nature. This study investigated the growth performance and stress tolerance of Desmodesmus sp. KNUA231 under varying pH and salinity conditions to evaluate its potential as a biofuel candidate. The strain was cultivated under controlled laboratory conditions and exhibited stable growth across a broad pH range (4–10) and moderate salinity levels (up to 5 g L−1 NaCl), indicating its resilience to diverse environmental conditions. Fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) analysis revealed that the biodiesel properties of Desmodesmus sp. KNUA231 comply with ASTM and EN standards in specific parameters, reinforcing its feasibility as a renewable biofuel feedstock. Additionally, its high calorific value (CV) suggests its potential as an energy-dense biomass source. The results of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP) analysis show that the soil is supplied with essential nutrients while minimizing heavy metal contamination, suggesting the possibility of biofertilizers. Although Desmodesmus sp. KNUA231 demonstrated promising characteristics for biofuel applications, further research is required to optimize large-scale cultivation and improve productivity for industrial applications. These findings highlight the potential of Desmodesmus sp. KNUA231 as a biofuel resource, particularly in non-optimal environmental conditions where pH and salinity fluctuations are common, contributing to the ongoing search for sustainable bioenergy solutions.
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Research context
OpenAlex topics: Algal biology and biofuel production · Biodiesel Production and Applications
SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.
Affiliations
Department of Biology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
School of Life Sciences, BK21 FOUR KNU Creative BioResearch Group, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
Integrated Blue Carbon Research Center, Advanced Bio-Resource Research Center, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
Funding
Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education · National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korea government (MSIT)
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