Synergetic conversion of microalgae and CO2 into value-added chemicals under hydrothermal conditions

Abstract

A novel approach for the synergetic conversion of microalgae including its residue after biodiesel extraction and CO₂ (or HCO₃⁻) into chemicals is reported for the first time. Results show that CO₂ (or HCO₃⁻) can be selectively reduced into formate with microalgae as a reductant, and simultaneously HCO₃⁻ itself significantly enhances the selective conversion of microalgae into organic acids and N-substituted lactam. The mechanism study showed that the lactam from the protein in microalgae contributed to the conversion of HCO₃⁻ into formate. The present study provides a new and green method for efficient utilization of microalgae and CO₂ conversion.