Research on High-Efficiency Conversion Technology of Microalgae Biofuel from the Perspective of Design Cross-Innovation: From Algal Strain Screening to Biorefinery: Whole Life Cycle Optimization and Sustainable Development Pathways

Abstract

The global energy crisis and environmental degradation have made the development of renewable energy an inevitable trend. Microalgae biofuel, with its advantages of high yield, non-occupation of arable land, and environmental friendliness, is considered an ideal alternative to fossil fuels. However, the commercialization of microalgae biofuel still faces many challenges, including low efficiency in algal strain screening, high cultivation costs, difficulties in biomass harvesting, and insufficient lipid extraction and conversion efficiency. This study aims to introduce the concept of design cross-innovation, integrating multidisciplinary knowledge from bioengineering, materials science, and process optimization, to construct a whole life cycle optimization technology system from algal strain screening and cultivation optimization to biorefinery. We used high-throughput screening technology combined with machine learning algorithms to successfully screen and genetically modify high-lipid-producing microalgae strains; designed and optimized a novel photobioreactor, significantly improving microalgae biomass yield and lipid accumulation efficiency; and developed efficient and low-energy-consumption lipid extraction and biodiesel conversion processes. Through a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of the entire conversion process, the superiority of the technical solution proposed in this study in terms of environmental sustainability and economic feasibility was verified. This research not only provides an efficient and sustainable technological path for the industrialization of microalgae biofuel but also offers a new paradigm for the application of design cross-innovation theory in the energy sector, holding significant theoretical and practical importance for promoting the global energy structure transformation.