Emerging technologies for conversion of sustainable macroalgal carrageenan biomass into L-lactic acid: A state-of-the-art review

¹ Department of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Curtin University Malaysia, CDT 250, 98009 Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia
² Chemical Engineering Department, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, 32610 Seri Iskandar, Perak, Malaysia
³ HICoE-Centre for Biofuel and Biochemical Research, Institute of Self-Sustainable Building, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS, 32610 Seri Iskandar, Perak, Malaysia

^* Corresponding author: tan.s@curtin.edu.my

Abstract

The environmental awareness and concerns (plastic pollution) worldwide have driven the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly biopolymer derived from renewable materials. Biopolymers, especially L-lactic acid (L-LA) have played a crucial role in manufacturing polylactic acid, a biodegradable thermoplastic. Recently, L-LA production from non-edible macroalgal biomass has gained immense attraction due to it offers the simplest saccharification process for the biorefinery route. However, the commercialization of macroalgal-based L-LA is still limited due to high production costs. This paper has comprehensively reviewed the potential and development of third-generation feedstock for L-LA production, including significant technological barriers to be overcome for potential commercialization purposes. Then, an insight into the state-of-the-art hydrolysis and fermentation technologies using macroalgae as feedstock are also deliberated in detail. Furthermore, this review provides a conceivable picture of macroalgae-based L-LA biorefinery and future research directions that can be served as an important guideline for scientists, policymakers, and industrial players.