Large-Scale Microalgae Drying
摘要
Drying harvested algal biomass on a large scale is a critical challenge in the commercial production of algal biomass, as it plays a fundamental role in preserving product quality and the economic efficiency of the process. The unique characteristics of algal biomass, such as its high moisture content, cellular fragility, and susceptibility to the thermal degradation of valuable bioactive compounds, significantly influence the drying process. These particularities require careful selection and optimization of drying technologies to maintain the integrity and quality of the final product. Among direct thermal methods, spray drying is efficient for producing fine powders and is ideal for food and nutraceutical applications, although it involves high costs and potential thermal degradation. Drum drying, which is energy-efficient and has high capacity, can degrade nutrients via direct heat. Solar drying is sustainable and low cost but weather-dependent and time-consuming for indirect thermal methods, making it suitable for sunny regions. Fluidized bed drying provides uniform drying through hot air, preserves bioactive compounds, and is effective for granular materials. Freeze drying, which uses sublimation under vacuum, preserves the structure and bioactivity of microalgae, producing a high-quality product, although it is expensive, slow, and suitable for high-value products. Among emerging technologies, microwave drying offers rapid and uniform drying through microwave energy absorption, although its large-scale implementation is costly and requires specialized equipment. Supercritical drying, which uses supercritical fluids such as carbon dioxide to extract water at low temperatures, preserves heat-sensitive compounds and shows excellent potential for the future. This chapter evaluates each method in terms of energy efficiency, final product quality, and environmental impact, allowing the identification of critical characteristics of the methodologies. Additionally, case studies in the food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and biofuel industries demonstrate the successful implementation of microalgae drying, enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability. These studies provide valuable insights into best practices and lessons learned.