Soxhlet extraction of Spirogyra sp. algae: an alternative fuel

ABSTRACT

Every step in the conversion of fossil fuel causes environmental pollution. Solar energy, wind energy and geothermal energies have their own limitations in generation and supply. Biofuels have the capability to reduce environmental pollution and produce energy. Algae can use the nutrients and carbon dioxide present in wastewater for their growth, which will reduce the pollution and the oil extracted from algae can be used as an alternative fuel. This study focuses on the extraction of oil from Spirogyra sp. algae using the Soxhlet extraction process. Various characteristics such as saponification value, iodine value, calorific value, flash point and acid value are analyzed. Oil extracted from Spirogyra sp. algae has a calorific value of 3257 kcal/kg, flash point of 78°C, and the allowable saponification value, iodine value and acid value. Oil extracted from Spirogyra sp. algae could progressively substitute for a significant proportion of energy demand.

KEYWORDS:

• Spirogyra sp.
• alternative fuel
• biofuels
• biodiesel
• microalgae

SUBJECT CLASSIFICATION CODES:

• biofuels production

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.