Microalgae-Based Wastewater Treatment and Biomass Valorization: Insights, Challenges, and Opportunities from 15 Years of Research.

ABSTRACT: This study highlights 15 years of research conducted at the Federal University of Viçosa, Brazil, on utilizing microalgae for wastewater treatment and biomass valorization within the biorefinery framework. High-rate algal ponds (HRAPs) have emerged as an accessible, efficient, and sustainable technology for decentralized sanitation, particularly in remote areas. The research findings, consistent with global studies, demonstrate that strategies such as ultraviolet (UV) predisinfection and carbon dioxide (CO₂) supplementation significantly enhance the removal of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and organic matter while optimizing biomass productivity. Integrating domestic and industrial wastewater improved nutrient balance, while hybrid systems combining HRAPs with biofilm reactors f

SUBMITTER: Calijuri ML 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12572981 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature