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Systematic Review

Advances in Third-Generation Bioethanol Production, Industrial Infrastructure and Efficient Technologies in Sustainable Processes with Algae Biomass: Systematic Review

by
Jesus R. Melendez
1,
Daniel A. Lowy
2,
Sufia Hena
3,* and
Leonardo Gutierrez
4
1
Engineering, Technology and Sustainable Renewable Energy Research Group, Faculty of Technical Education for Development, Catholic University of Santiago of Guayaquil, Guayaquil 090615, Ecuador
2
Kandó Kálmán Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Óbuda University, 17 Tavaszmező St., 1084 Budapest, Hungary
3
Department of Chemical Engineering, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
4
Facultad del Mar y Medio Ambiente, Universidad del Pacifico, Guayaquil 090904, Ecuador
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Fermentation 2026, 12(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation12010002
Submission received: 19 November 2025 / Revised: 10 December 2025 / Accepted: 16 December 2025 / Published: 19 December 2025
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advancements in Fermentation Technology: Biofuels Production)

Abstract

The growing global concern about the environmental impact of fossil fuels’ greenhouse gas emissions has spurred the introduction of innovative, sustainable alternatives. Microalgae biomass holds substantial potential as a viable source material for producing environmentally friendly biofuels. Third-generation (3G) biofuels, specifically algae-derived bioethanol, have emerged as viable alternatives to traditional biofuels. The research provides an exhaustive analysis of the contemporary understanding of manufacturing 3G biofuels from microalgae and macroalgae. Additionally, the study provides an in-depth discussion of the identified gaps within these areas. By conducting a systematic literature review, the authors describe current knowledge of 3G biofuel production. The study addresses two key categories: (i) infrastructure and industrial technology, and (ii) the processes for obtaining third-generation biofuels. One highlights the need for efficient management in all stages of bioethanol production, including cultivation, harvesting, extraction, and conversion. Furthermore, leveraging technological advancements, such as selecting superior genetic strains and developing novel conversion technologies, is essential for improving the efficiency and profitability of the manufacturing process. The successful production of 3G bioethanol from microalgae requires a comprehensive approach that addresses various challenges and incorporates sustainable practices to achieve environmental and economic goals.
Keywords: microalgae; biofuels; biomass; biorefineries; chemical processes; sustainability microalgae; biofuels; biomass; biorefineries; chemical processes; sustainability
Graphical Abstract

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MDPI and ACS Style

Melendez, J.R.; Lowy, D.A.; Hena, S.; Gutierrez, L. Advances in Third-Generation Bioethanol Production, Industrial Infrastructure and Efficient Technologies in Sustainable Processes with Algae Biomass: Systematic Review. Fermentation 2026, 12, 2. https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation12010002

AMA Style

Melendez JR, Lowy DA, Hena S, Gutierrez L. Advances in Third-Generation Bioethanol Production, Industrial Infrastructure and Efficient Technologies in Sustainable Processes with Algae Biomass: Systematic Review. Fermentation. 2026; 12(1):2. https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation12010002

Chicago/Turabian Style

Melendez, Jesus R., Daniel A. Lowy, Sufia Hena, and Leonardo Gutierrez. 2026. "Advances in Third-Generation Bioethanol Production, Industrial Infrastructure and Efficient Technologies in Sustainable Processes with Algae Biomass: Systematic Review" Fermentation 12, no. 1: 2. https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation12010002

APA Style

Melendez, J. R., Lowy, D. A., Hena, S., & Gutierrez, L. (2026). Advances in Third-Generation Bioethanol Production, Industrial Infrastructure and Efficient Technologies in Sustainable Processes with Algae Biomass: Systematic Review. Fermentation, 12(1), 2. https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation12010002

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