Algae for Nanocellulose Production

Abstract

The advantage of using algae biomass over traditional lignocellulosic biomass for nanocellulose production is based on its availability, its processing and its quality. However, it is currently only used in small quantities compared to traditional lignocellulosic-based nanocellulose. This chapter provides a detailed overview of the potential of algae as a resource for nanocellulose production. First, structural organization and biosynthesis pathways of cellulose are detailed for various groups of algae. The processing of microfibrillar cellulose, cellulose nanofibrils and cellulose nanocrystals from algae is discussed systematically. The exceptional properties of algae-based nanocellulose are mainly related to the high quality and purity. Nanocellulose crystallinity, thermal stability, degradation and rheological properties are highlighted and compared to wood-based counterparts. Finally, an overview of algal nanocellulose applications is given. Nanocellulose from algae can be of extremely high quality and reduce the complexity of processing associated with energy-savings when integrated in comprehensive biorefinery schemes for algae biomass. However, the selection of algae strains and the optimization of processing parameters remain critical in the control of the final nanocellulose properties.