Extraction of microalgal starch and pigments by using different cell disruption methods and aqueous two‐phase system

BACKGROUND Microalgae can synthesize starch with productivity higher than conventional terrestrial crops, without the need for arable land. However, little is known about processes to extract from microalgae. Here, a biorefinery process described including microalgal cell disruption followed by extraction of and pigments aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) using choline chloride polypropylene glycol 400. Sonication bead milling were compared rate efficiency. RESULTS A first order kinetic model well both methods, 2.6 times sonication. By applying ATPS on samples comparable (>93%), was separated better after sonication (67% recovery in pellet) milling, which it remained equally distributed between pellet (40%) phase. Pigments extracted 42–66% yield irrespective method. Microalgal granules had normal narrow distribution size (0.93 ± 0.14 μm) gelatinization temperature 45–55 °C. CONCLUSION For same yield, different separation efficiencies be achieved, depending method applied. Although faster disrupting cells, gave worst The properties indicate potential technical advantages, respect sources, applications bioplastic food sector. © 2021 Authors. Journal Chemical Technology Biotechnology published John Wiley & Sons Ltd behalf Society Industry (SCI).