Abstract:
In the framework of a sustainable marine bioeconomy, the present work describes an
advanced, eco-friendly, fully integrated biorefinery process for marine Ulva fasciata macroalgae. That
would serve as a solution for ecosystem bioremediation, an effective utilization of marine macroalgal
resources, and a new initiative to promote a green and low-carbon economy. Ulva fasciata biomass
can be utilized as an organic fertilizer with total N, P2O5
, and K2O contents of 3.17% and a C/N ratio
of 11.71. It can also be used as a solid biofuel with a sufficient calorific value of 15.19 MJ/kg. It has
high carbohydrate content and low lignin content of approximately 44.85% and 1.5%, respectively,
which recommend its applicability in bioethanol and biobutanol production. Its protein, fiber, lipid,
and ash contents of approximately 13.13%, 9.9%, 3.27%, and 21%, respectively with relatively high
concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) and omega-9 fatty acids (n-9 MUFAs) and relatively
low omega-6 fatty acids (n-6 PUFAs) and a n-6/n-3 ratio of 0.13 also recommend its applicability as
food additives and animal feeders. Moreover, the suggested sequential zero-waste biomass residue
process yielded 34.89% mineral-rich water extract (MRWE), 2.61% chlorophylla,b, 0.41% carotenoids,
12.55% starch, 3.27% lipids, 22.24% ulvan, 13.37% proteins, and 10.66% cellulose of Ulva fasciata dry
weight. The efficient biocidal activity of extracted ulvan against pathogenic microorganisms and
sulfate-reducing bacteria recommends its application for medical purposes, water densification, and
mitigation of microbially induced corrosion in the oil and gas industry.
