Microalgae are a diverse group of organisms that hold significant potential due to their rich composition of lipids, carbohydrates, pigments, and vitamins. These components are highly sought after in various industries, including pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food, and chemical sectors. Despite the recognized potential of microalgae as a source of valuable compounds, there remains a significant gap between market demand and the implementation of sustainable industrial processes. This gap underscores the need for research focused on developing efficient procedures for the utilization of microalgae to produce high-quality and safe products. Recent studies have highlighted the promise of green technologies and solvents in achieving efficient extraction and processing of microalgae, yet there is still much to explore in terms of optimizing these methods for industrial application. Addressing these challenges is crucial for bridging the gap between demand and sustainable production.
This research topic aims to explore the application of green technologies and solvents in the recovery of bioactive compounds from microalgae. The main objectives include investigating efficient extraction methods, enhancing the quality and safety of the products, and providing a foundation for scaling up these processes to an industrial level. Key questions include how to optimize green extraction techniques for maximum yield and quality, and what innovative approaches can be developed to stabilize and utilize microalgae-derived bioactive components.
To gather further insights in the sustainable extraction and utilization of microalgae, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Extraction of bioactive compounds from microalgae using alternative green extractions and solvents
- Development and optimization of microalgae-based biorefineries
- Stabilization techniques for microalgae bioactive components
- Applications of microalgae bioactive components obtained through green technologies
- Exploration of green processes for microalgae extraction, including deep eutectic solvents, supercritical fluid extraction, subcritical water extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, pressurized fluid extraction, solvent-free extraction, and pulsed electric field methods.
Keywords: microalgae, bioactive compounds, green solvent, green extraction, biorefineries
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
