Comparative Analysis of Biofuel Production from Spirulina Biomass and Chlorella Powder: Evaluating Growth Efficiency and Yield Optimization through Rice Water-Based Bioremediation (Wastewater)

Under microalgae-based biofuels, it provides an option for the replacement of conventional fuels with an alternative energy source, rapid algal growth with the possibility of high accumulation of lipids along with capturing carbon and remediating wastewater among others. In this regard, the study comparatively analyzed the biofuel production efficiencies of Spirulina platensis and Chlorella vulgaris in a rice water-based medium (wastewater), supplemented by True water, which is an artificial water. The preparation of growth medium for Spirulina involved modification of Zarrouk's using agricultural rice water. The culture of Chlorella powdered water (3g) and Spirulina culture (100 mL per liter in two separate beakers) was carried out under controlled light and aeration conditions. Lipids were extracted by methanol and chloroform, while transesterification was done by sodium hydroxide and methanol. However, the yield obtained was very low (<1 mL) at the end of the entire optimization of the cultivation, lipid extraction, and transesterification processes. It was found that Chlorella had better growth and lipid productivity than Spirulina in wastewater cultivation. Both gases were tested for their ability to sequester CO₂ by microalgae, plus their nutrient pollutant removal (nitrate and phosphate). Improvements in biomass concentration and optimizing solvent systems and harvesting techniques would contribute to improving biofuel yields in future studies. Recommended further tests for a more extensive characterization of biodiesel quality and energy content include lipids profile analysis (GC-MS) and calorific value testing of the extracted biofuel.