Microalgal role in sustainable business models for the textile industry

• Type: Chapter or Part of a Book
• Date: 2024

Authors

Martins, A (Author) Other; Salgado, M (Author) Other; Gonçalves, L (Author) Other; Pires, JCM (Author) FEUP; Esteves, F (Author) FEUP

Book

Title: Advances in Sustainable Applications of Microalgae

Pages: 163-182

ISBN: 978-044322127-9; 978-044322128-6

Electronic ISBN: 9780443221279

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-017-RE2

DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-443-22127-9.00007-x

Abstract (EN): With its longstanding history and global significance, the textile industry contributes significantly to economic growth but also faces challenges due to its environmental impact. The coloration step, a vital aspect of textile production, is notorious for its detrimental effects on the environment, particularly concerning water consumption, pollution, and resource depletion. This chapter delves into the multifaceted issues surrounding textile coloration wastewater and explores innovative solutions for its treatment and sustainable management based on microalgae cultivation. The current conventional treatment methods are critiqued for their energy-intensive nature, high capital costs, and generation of nonvaluable byproducts. In response, microalgae-based treatment emerges as a promising alternative, addressing effluent purification and the generation of valuable byproducts, such as pigments and biofuels. The valorization of microalgal biomass after treatment, specifically the extraction of pigments, is thoroughly examined. These natural pigments hold promise as sustainable alternatives for textile dyeing and functionalization, offering numerous advantages, including environmental friendliness, biodegradability, and potential incorporation into textile substrates for enhanced properties. Moreover, using microalgae presents a circular economy approach by reducing CO2 emissions, treating wastewater, and generating biofuels. This chapter underscores the urgent need for transformative practices in textile wastewater management, highlighting the potential of microalgae as a game-changing solution for both environmental and economic sustainability in the textile industry. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 19