Characterisation of Congolese Aquatic Biomass and Their Potential as a Source of Bioenergy

This study assesses the bioenergy potential of two types aquatic biomass found in Republic Congo: green macroalgae Ulva lactuca (UL) and Ledermanniella schlechteri (LS). Their combustion behaviour was assessed using elemental biochemical analysis, TGA, bomb calorimetry metal analysis. anaerobic digestion determined methane (BMP) tests. The average HHV for LS is 14.1 MJ kg−1, whereas UL lower (10.5 kg−1). Both biomasses have high ash contents would be problematic during thermal conversion due to unfavourable behaviour. Biochemical analysis indicated levels carbohydrate protein low lipids lignin. Although lipid profile desirable biodiesel production, are too feasible extraction. High carbohydrates make both suitable digestion. BMP tests showed that an 262 161 mL CH4 gVS−1, respectively. biodegradability (BI) had value 76.5% 43.5%, these unsuitable extraction; however, through promising.