In this study, five Chlorella species (Chlorella vulgaris, Chlorella minutissima, Chlorella pyrenoidosa, Chlorella sp.1 and Chlorella sp.2) were grown in various nutrient medium including BG-11, BBM, Fog’s medium and M4N medium for the evolution of biomass and lipid production potential. Among the tested medium, BG-11 was found most economical and efficient medium for all Chlorella species. To see the impact of organic carbon sources on lipid production potential, all microalgae species were also cultured in selected medium (BG-11) with different organic carbon sources like glucose, glycerol, sodium acetate, and sucrose under mixotrophic condition. The results showed that all Chlorella species performs better under mixotrophic condition, but Chlorella vulgaris achieved maximum lipid productivity (3.5 folds higher) in glycerol supplemented culture medium than control medium among all species.
16 February 2017 in International Journal of Energy Research
Owing to the scarcity of raw materials and environmental concerns, concrete industry demands a suitable environment friendly material, which can substitute it partially while maintaining its required characteristics. Biochar from agricultural biomass is sustainable product for construction uses without any adverse effect on environment. It acts as effective binder/filler for enhancing performance of construction material, including mechanical/rheological properties, water absorbing capacity, insulating nature, chemical stability and environmental safety. This review presents significant aspects of biochar as additive to cementitious materials. It highlights its role in improving the performance of concrete for various applications in construction industry. It also suggests that a suitable permutation and combination is necessary for optimizing its properties and effectiveness. It can be derived from the studies carried out in this domain that on average, 1–3% addition of biochar derived from various lignocellulosic biomass can serve as optimum concentration for enhancing performance in building constituents. The review also highlights the economic viability and environmental benefits of biochar addition in cementitious composition. This article will provide deep insight and understanding about appropriateness of biochar as important constituent in construction industry. It will be encouraging for the researchers to strengthen their observations and outcomes, helping in categorizing biochar as ‘green concrete’ in upcoming time.