A novel approach in the production of renewable energy carrier;namely, biodiesel;was performed using algal biomass as a raw material. The effect of drying algal biomass and its role on lipid content during extraction process was also investigated. Transesterification of algal oil was conducted, using ethanol in the presence of potassium hydroxide as a catalyst. A gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) chromatogram was used to analyze the organic compounds present in the crude biodiesel sample after the transesterification process. The lipid content in the algal biomass was determined to be 45% ( 4%. Biodiesel derived from algae had a fuel value with the following characteristics: density, 0.801 kg/L; ash content, 0.21%; flash point, 98 °C; pour point, -14 °C; cetane number, 52; minimum gross calorific value, 40 MJ/kg; and water content, 0.02 vol %. Copper strip corrosion showed a value less than that of Class 1, which was close to light orange, when compared to the polished strip (i.e., slight tarnish).

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This article recapitulates the scientific advancement towards the greener synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Applications of noble metals have increased throughout human civilization, and the uses for nano-sized particles are even more remarkable. "Green" nanoparticle synthesis has been achieved using environmentally acceptable solvent systems and eco-friendly reducing and capping agents. Numerous microorganisms and plant extracts have been applied to synthesize inorganic nanostructures either intracellularly or extracellularly. The use of nanoparticles derived from noble metals has spread to many areas including jewelery, medical fields, electronics, water treatment and sport utilities, thus improving the longevity and comfort in human life. The application of nanoparticles as delivery vehicles for bactericidal agents represents a new paradigm in the design of antibacterial therapeutics. Orientation, size and physical properties of nanoparticles influences the performance and reproducibility of a potential device, thus making the synthesis and assembly of shape- and size-controlled nanocrystals an essential component for any practical application. This need has motivated researchers to explore different synthesis protocols.

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This article highlights the research work carried out in the production of inulinases from various inulin substrates using strains of bacteria, yeast and fungi. Inulin is one of the numerous polysaccharides of plant origin that contains glucose or fructose. It is used as a substrate in industrial fermentation processes and in food industries due to its relatively cheap and abundant source for the microbiological production of high-fructose syrups, ethanol and acetone-butanol. The various oligosaccharides derived from inulin also find their application in the medical and dietary sector. The inulinase acts on the beta-(2,1)-D-fructoside links in inulin releasing D-fructose. Hence, this article illustrates the capability of various microbes in hydrolyzing the carbon at its optimum nutrient concentration and operating condition towards inulinase production.