Authors : Rahul Sharma; Soni Paswan; Anjali Yadav; Sumit Kumar Pandey; Dr. Anupam Singh

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 12 - December

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/7jz4sx2c

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/mwp2wfcc

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25dec885

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : The increasing demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable energy sources worldwide has placed microalgae at the center of biotechnological research. Compared to traditional methods for producing biomass, algal photobioreactors (PBRs) have emerged as promising technologies for efficiently cultivating cyanobacteria and microalgae. This review thoroughly explores the biology, classification, design, technological advancements, and diverse applications of photobioreactors, highlighting their important role in addressing current industrial and environmental challenges. Starting with the biological foundation, the study outlines the key metabolic features of microalgae that make them ideal for industrial use. These features include their ability to accumulate lipids, their high photosynthetic efficiency, and their specific nutritional needs. The paper then analyzes the structural designs, working principles, advantages, and limitations of PBRs, categorizing them into open, closed, and hybrid systems. Algal productivity is significantly influenced by operational factors such as light intensity, carbon dioxide supply, mixing, temperature control, and contamination management, all of which are carefully optimized. The review also examines recent technological innovations, such as the use of smart materials, IoT- based automation, AI-driven monitoring, 3D printing, and biofilm growth techniques, which can enhance the performance and scalability of PBRs. It covers a wide range of applications, including the production of biofuels like biodiesel, bioethanol, and biogas, the treatment of wastewater, carbon capture, and the creation of valuable bioproducts such as pigments, antioxidants, and biofertilizers. The environmental advantages, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions, minimal land use, and the ability to remove pollutants, are highlighted. Additionally, an economic comparison is made between PBR technologies and conventional methods in terms of cost-effectiveness, scalability, and market potential. While the benefits of PBRs are clear, the study also notes challenges that hinder their widespread commercial use, including high initial costs, complex operations, and regulatory constraints. The review recommends further research into biorefinery models, genetic engineering, and integration with renewable energy systems to fully unlock the potential of algal PBRs. Finally, the study calls for interdisciplinary collaboration, supportive legislation, and financial backing to accelerate the transition to a circular, bio-based economy driven by innovations in algal technology.

Keywords : Photobioreactor, Algae, Bioindustry, Biofuel, Sustainability.

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