Production of Carbohydrate-Rich Chlorella sp. Biomass Using Clarified Aquaponics Effluent for Bioethanol Feedstock Applications

Abstract

The integration of microalgal cultivation with wastewater streams offers a promising pathway to enhance resource efficiency within circular bioeconomy frameworks. However, the suitability of clarified aquaponics sedimentation effluent for producing carbohydrate-rich microalgal biomass remains insufficiently evaluated, particularly with respect to nutrient recovery and bioethanol-relevant feedstock potential. In this study, clarified aquaponics sedimentation effluent was assessed as a cultivation medium for Chlorella sp. under controlled laboratory conditions. Biomass productivity, nutrient removal performance, and carbohydrate accumulation were systematically evaluated and compared with conventional synthetic medium. Chlorella sp. cultivated in clarified aquaponic effluent achieved a maximum biomass concentration of approximately 2.05 g L−1, exceeding that obtained in Bold’s Basal Medium. Carbohydrate content exceeded 40% of dry weight, indicating suitability for fermentable sugar production. Nitrate and phosphate removal efficiencies greater than 95% were achieved, with mass balance analysis confirming biological assimilation as the primary removal mechanism (~87.4%). This confirms the dual functionality of the system. The effective nutrient assimilation and confirmed the dual functionality of the system as both a biomass production and nutrient recovery process. Comparable performance under diluted and undiluted effluent conditions further indicated that freshwater dilution is not required following clarification. Light saturation was observed at 180–190 μmol m−2 s−1, providing guidance for energy-efficient operation. These findings demonstrate that clarified aquaponics effluent can serve as an effective alternative growth medium for producing carbohydrate-rich Chlorella sp. biomass while enabling nutrient recovery. The estimated bioethanol potential is theoretical, based on stoichiometric conversion assumptions, and experimental fermentation was not conducted. This work provides quantitative evidence supporting the integration of microalgae into aquaponic systems and establishes a foundation for future pilot-scale, techno-economic, and life-cycle assessments.