Enhancing the degradation of microplastics through combined KMnO4 oxidation and UV radiation.

The pervasive issue of microplastics in aquatic environments presents a formidable challenge to traditional water treatment methodologies, including those utilizing KMnO4. This study pioneers advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) method aimed at improving the degradation of PE microplastics by employing a dual treatment strategy that combines KMnO4 oxidation with UV irradiation. Detailed analysis of the surface modifications and chemical functional groups of the treated PE microplastics revealed the establishment of Mn-O-Mn linkages on their surfaces. Weight reductions of 3.9%, 4.9%, and 7.5% were observed for the KMnO4/UVA, KMnO4/UVB, and KMnO4/UVC treatments over seven days, respectively. The emergence of carboxyl and hydroxyl groups played a crucial role in accelerating the degradation process. Notably, the combined application of UVC rays and KMnO4 resulted in the most effective degradation of PE microplastics observed in our study. The process significantly enhanced the formation of MnO2 particles from KMnO4 oxidation, with concentrations ranging from 0.036 to 0.070 mM for KMnO4/UVA, 0.066-0.097 mM for KMnO4/UVB, and 0.086-0.180 mM for KMnO4/UVC. Furthermore, the influence of varying pH levels, KMnO4 concentrations, and different water sources on the degradation efficacy was investigated. The pivotal role of free radicals and reactive manganese species in promoting the degradation of PE microplastics was identified. A comparative evaluation with treatments solely utilizing KMnO4 or UV light highlighted the enhanced effectiveness of the combined approach, demonstrating its potential as an efficient solution for reducing microplastic contamination in aquatic systems.

Sustainable aquaculture and seafood production using microalgal technology - A circular bioeconomy perspective.

The aquaculture industry is under the framework of the food-water-energy nexus due to the extensive use of water and energy. Sustainable practices are required to support the tremendous growth of this sector. Currently, the aquaculture industry is challenged by its reliance on capture fisheries for feed, increased use of pharmaceuticals, infectious outbreaks, and solid/liquid waste management. This review posits microalgal technology as a comprehensive solution for the current predicaments in aquaculture in a sustainable way. Microalgae are microscopic, freshwater and marine photosynthetic organisms, capable of carbon mitigation and bioremediation. They are indispensable in aquaculture due to their key role in marine productivity and their position in the marine food chain. Microalgae are nutritious and are currently used as feed in specific sectors of aquaculture. Due to their bioremediation potential, direct application of microalgae in shellfish ponds and in recirculating systems have been adopted to improve water quality and aquatic animal health. The potential of microalgae for integration into various aspects of aquaculture processes, namely hatcheries, feed, and waste management has been critically analyzed. Seamless integration of microalgal technology in aquaculture is feasible, and this review will provide new insights into using microalgal technology for sustainable aquaculture.

Advances in perfluoro-alkylated compounds (PFAS) detection in seafood and marine environments: A comprehensive review on analytical techniques and global regulations.

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent organic pollutants that severely threaten the environment and human health due to their distinct chemical composition, extensive production, widespread distribution, bioaccumulation in nature, and long-term persistence. This review focuses on the occurrence and sources of PFAS in seafood, with a particular emphasis on advanced detection methods viz. nanoparticle-based, biosensor-based, and metal-organic frameworks-based, and mass spectrometric techniques. The challenges associated with these advanced detection technologies are also discussed. Recent research and regulatory updates about PFAS, including hazardous and potential health effects, epidemiological studies, and various risk assessment models, have been reviewed. In addition, the need for global monitoring programs and regulations on PFAS are critically reviewed by underscoring their crucial role in protecting human health and the environment. Further, approaches for reducing PFAS in seafood are highlighted with future innovative remediation directions. Although advanced PFAS analytical methods are available, selectivity, sample preparation, and sensitivity are still significant challenges associated with detection of PFAS in seafood matrices.  Moreover, crucial research gaps and solutions to essential concerns are critically explored in this review.

Nano-enabled microalgae bioremediation: Advances in sustainable pollutant removal and value-addition.

Microalgae-assisted bioremediation, enriched by nanomaterial integration, offers a sustainable approach to environmental pollution mitigation while harnessing microalgae's potential as a biocatalyst and biorefinery resource. This strategy explores the interaction between microalgae, nanomaterials, and bioremediation, advancing sustainability objectives. The potent combination of microalgae and nanomaterials highlights the biorefinery's promise in effective pollutant removal and valuable algal byproduct production. Various nanomaterials, including metallic nanoparticles and semiconductor quantum dots, are reviewed for their roles in inorganic and organic pollutant removal and enhancement of microalgae growth. Limited studies have been conducted to establish nanomaterial's (CeO2, ZnO, Fe3O4, Al2O3, etc.) role on microalgae in pollution remediation; most studies cover inorganic pollutants (heavy metals and nutrients) remediation, exhibited 50-300% bioremediation efficiency improvement; however, some studies cover antibiotics and toxic dyes removal efficiency with 19-95% improvement. These aspects unveil the complex mechanisms underlying nanomaterial-pollutant-microalgae interactions, focusing on adsorption, photocatalysis, and quantum dot properties. Strategies to enhance bioremediation efficiency are discussed, including pollutant uptake improvement, real-time control, tailored nanomaterial design, and nutrient recovery. The review assesses recent advancements, navigates challenges, and envisions a sustainable future for bioremediation, underlining the transformative capacity of nanomaterial-driven microalgae-assisted bioremediation. This work aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by exploring nanomaterial-enhanced microalgae bioremediation for sustainable pollution management and resource utilization.

Contrasting metal bioaccumulation in marine benthic invertebrate groups in polluted harbor sediments.

This study examined the sediment metal fractions and availability to infer bioaccumulation in marine harbor benthic organisms. Total metals were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry for chemical fractions and organisms. The results showed similar metal concentrations and distribution driven by rivers and harbor pollution. We found significant differences in metal accumulation in marine benthic groups, highest in scavenger species. Their metal concentrations in decreasing order were 1.97-4568, 0.10-1260, 1.64-159, and 0.105-112 µg g-1 dw for hermit crabs, forams, bivalves, and polychaetes. Moreover, certain organisms, such as tusk shells, sea pens, bivalves, forams, and isopods, may exhibit selective metal accumulation. Biota-sediment accumulation factors (>1) were highest for essential metals like Cu, Zn, and Mn, while toxic metals like As, Cr, Co, and Ni increased. This concurrent assessment provides more comprehensive data for metal bioaccumulation in marine benthic ecosystems.

Sediment organic matter predicts polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon distribution in port sediments.

We evaluated the influence of organic matter in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in port sediments using multiple linear regression (MLR) and prediction models. Total sediment PAHs ranged between 45 and 3230 ng/g dw (average: 557 ± 962 ng/g dw), with PAHs primarily originating from river inputs, confined to areas near the estuaries. Coal/biomaterial combustion and petroleum mainly contribute to the presence of PAHs along estuaries, with medium-high to high ecological risks. MLR TPAHs prediction model included variables, namely, the marine-derived total organic carbon (TOCmar), terrestrial fraction of organic matter (Fterr), and carbon-to­nitrogen ratio (CNR). Results indicate that mainly marine- followed by terrestrially-derived organic matter influenced sediment PAH distribution. Total organic nitrogen and CNR were variables in the toxic equivalent (TEQ) prediction model, demonstrating that terrestrial pollution sources primarily influenced TEQ. The study analyzes and predicts the impact of organic matter and its sources on the fate and transport of PAHs in port sediments.

A sustainable bioremediation of vanadium from marine environment and value-addition using potential thraustochytrids.

Rising concerns about global environmental degradation underscore the pressing need for effective solutions to combat heavy metal pollution. Industries such as semiconductor and steel production discharge vanadium into marine ecosystems, posing significant risks to both marine life and human health. The current study investigates efficacy of utilizing marine thraustochytrid for efficient vanadium removal outcompeting other microbial sources. By optimizing pH and temperature conditions during harvesting, achieved a remarkable 50.80 % enhancement in vanadium removal efficiency, from 19.31 to 29.12 mg/L. Furthermore, chelating agents EDTA and citric acid supplementation demonstrated promising enhancements, reaching up to 31.21 and 32.59 mg/L, respectively. Notably, vanadium-treated biomass supplemented with citric acid exhibited maximum enhancement in lipid content, from 58.47 to 75.34 %, indicating thraustochytrid's potential for biofuel production. This study presents a sustainable approach for industrial-scale vanadium bioremediation, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals focused on dual benefits of environmental protection and renewable energy.

Immunotoxicity and oxidative damage in Litopenaeus vannamei induced by polyethylene microplastics and copper co-exposure.

This study examines the combined effects of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MP) and copper (Cu2+) on the immune and oxidative response of Litopenaeus vannamei. PE-MP adsorbed with Cu2+ at 2.3, 6.8, and 16.8 ng (g shrimp)-1) were injected into L. vannamei. Over 14 days, survival rates were monitored, and immune and oxidative stress parameters were assessed. The results showed that combined exposure to PE-MP and Cu2+ significantly reduced the survival rate and decreased total haemocyte count. Immune-related parameters (phagocytic rate, phenoloxidase and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) and antioxidant-related parameters (SOD, catalase and glutathione peroxidase mRNA and enzyme) also decreased, while respiratory burst activity significantly increased, indicating immune and antioxidant system disruption. Additionally, there was a significant increase in oxidative stress, as measured by malondialdehyde levels. Histopathological analysis revealed severe muscle, hepatopancreas, and gill damage. These results suggest that simultaneous exposure to PE-MP and Cu2+ poses greater health risks to white shrimp.

Assessing and optimizing the bioactivities of diverse enzyme-derived protein hydrolysates from Porphyra yezoensis: unlocking the health potential.

The interest in algae-derived bioactive compounds has grown due to their potential therapeutic efficacy against a range of diseases. These compounds, derived from proteins, exhibit diverse functions and profound pharmacological effects. Recent research has highlighted the extensive health benefits of algae-derived bioactive compounds, positioning them as potential natural antioxidants in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. This study focuses on extracting proteins from Porphyra yezoensis using innovative physical pre-treatment methods such as stirring, ball milling, and homogenization, under various acidic and alkaline conditions. Enzymatic hydrolysis, employing commercial enzymes at optimal temperature, pH, and enzyme-substrate ratios, produced distinct fractions according to molecular weight. Pepsin demonstrated the highest hydrolysis rate, with the fraction above 10 kDa identified as the most bioactive hydrolysate. Antioxidant activity was evaluated through DPPH, ABTS, ferrous ion chelation, and reducing power assays, demonstrating high antioxidant potential and the ability to mitigate oxidative stress. The 10 kDa fraction of pepsin hydrolysate exhibited 82.6% DPPH activity, 77.5% ABTS activity, 88.4% ferrous ion chelation activity, and higher reducing power potential (0.84 absorbance at 700 nm). Further exploration of mechanisms, amino acid profiles, and potential in vivo benefits is essential to fully exploit the medicinal potential of these algae-derived hydrolysates.

In vitro evaluation of antioxidant potential of polysaccharides and oligosaccharides extracted from three different seaweeds.

Bioactive polysaccharides and oligosaccharides were successfully extracted from three distinct seaweeds: Sargassum sp., Graciallaria sp., and Ulva sp. utilizing various extraction techniques. The obtained polysaccharides and oligosaccharides were subjected to comprehensive characterization, and their potential antioxidant properties were assessed using a Hep G2 cell model. Analysis via FTIR spectroscopy unveiled the presence of sulfate groups in the polysaccharides and oligosaccharides derived from Sargassum sp. The antioxidant capabilities were assessed through various assays (DPPH, ABTS, Fe-ion chelation, and reducing power), revealing that SAR-OSC exhibited superior antioxidant activity than others. This was attributed to its higher phenolic content (24.6 µg/mg), FRAP value (36 µM Vitamin C/g of extract), and relatively low molecular weight (5.17 kDa). The study also investigated the protective effects of these polysaccharides and oligosaccharides against oxidative stress-induced damage in Hep G2 cells by measuring ROS production and intracellular antioxidant enzyme expressions (SOD, GPx, and CAT). Remarkably, SAR-OSC demonstrated the highest efficacy in protecting Hep G2 cells reducing ROS production and downregulating SOD, GPx, and CAT expressions. Current findings have confirmed that the oligosaccharides extracted by the chemical method show higher antioxidant activity, particularly SAR-OSC, and robust protective abilities in the Hep G2 cells.

Microplastics and phthalate esters contamination in top oceanic predators: A study on multiple shark species in the Pacific Ocean.

Marine organisms, especially top predators such as sharks, are susceptible to environmental pollutants like microplastics (MPs) and phthalate esters (PAEs), leading to ecosystem risks. Research on contamination in these apex species is, however, still limited. This study investigated MPs and PAEs in multiple shark species (Isurus oxyrinchus, Alopias superciliosus, Alopias pelagicus, Carcharhinus brevipinna, and Sphyrna zygaena) off Taiwan's eastern coast. Gastric tissue analyses revealed ubiquitous microplastics (2-31 particles), which positively correlated with body lengths and weights for Isurus oxyrinchus. Blue, fiber-shaped (1-2 mm), and rayon-based MPs are likely associated with textile fiber pollution. The PAEs concentration mean was 7035 ± 6829 ng/g, ww, having DEHP and DiNP as primary compounds. This study highlights pervasive contamination in Pacific Ocean sharks, emphasizing anthropogenic impact on top oceanic predators and providing essential insights for food safety and MP accumulation.

Seasonal dynamics of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in microplankton from Kaohsiung Harbor (Taiwan Strait, northeastern South China Sea).

The impact of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) on the marine food web is crucially understudied in the primary trophic system. We evaluated the seasonal dynamics of PAHs in microplankton in a polluted environment (Taiwan), northeastern South China Sea. Replicate size-fractionated microplankton (55-1000 µm) were freeze-dried, and PAHs were extracted with a 1:1 v/v ratio of acetone: n-hexane, then analyzed using GC-MS. Total PAHs ranged between 68 and 2548 ng/g dw in microplankton, greatest during spring (130-2548 ng/g), followed by autumn (135-772 ng/g) and summer (44-423 ng/g). Spatial distribution varied through seasons but was higher in the southern part (S6 > S4 > S5 > S2 > S3 > S1 > S7), dominated by higher-ring PAHs from mixed pyrogenic and petrogenic sources. PAHs are significantly correlated with environmental factors, especially in colder seasons and lower salinity areas. Suspended matter and plankton influenced PAH transport and partitioning seasonally. Plankton's PAHs seasonal changes and environmental influences are revealed in an anthropic environment.

Transitioning weathered oil fields towards new energy: A review on utilizing hydrogenotrophic methanogens for petroleum hydrocarbons remediation.

The weathering process can cause the volatilization of light components in crude oil, leading to the accumulation of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) in weathered oil field soils. These TPH compounds are relatively resistant to biodegradation, posing a significant environmental hazard by contributing to soil degradation. TPH represents a complex mixture of petroleum-based hydrocarbons classified as persistent organic pollutants in soil and groundwater. The release of TPH pollutants into the environment poses serious threats to ecosystems and human health. Currently, various methods are available for TPH-contaminated soil remediation, with bioremediation technology recognized as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective approach. While converting TPH to CO2 is a common remediation method, the complex structures and diverse types of petroleum hydrocarbons (PHs) involved can result in excessive CO2 generation, potentially exacerbating the greenhouse effect. Alternatively, transforming TPH into energy forms like methane through bioremediation, followed by collection and reuse, can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. This process relies on the synergistic interaction between Methanogens archaea and syntrophic bacteria, forming a consortium known as the oil-degrading bacterial consortium. Methanogens produce methane through anaerobic digestion (AD), with hydrogenotrophic methanogens (HTMs) utilizing H2 as an electron donor, playing a crucial role in biomethane production. Candidatus Methanoliparia (Ca. Methanoliparia) was found in the petroleum archaeal community of weathered Oil field in northeast China. Ca. Methanoliparia has demonstrated its independent ability to decompose and produce new energy (biomethane) without symbiosis, contribute to transitioning weathered oil fields towards new energy. Therefore, this review focuses on the principles, mechanisms, and developmental pathways of HTMs during new energy production in the degradation of PHs. It also discusses strategies to enhance TPH degradation and recovery methods.

Enhancing photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI) in water through morphological manipulation of g-C3N4 photocatalysts: A comparative study of 1D, 2D, and 3D structures.

In this research, the dimensional catalysts of pure g-C3N4 photocatalysts (1D, 2D, and 3D) were investigated for the reduction of the highly toxic/carcinogenic Cr(VI) under visible light irradiation. The catalysts underwent explanation through various surface analysis techniques. According to the BET data, the specific surface area of the 3D catalyst was 1.3 and 7 times higher than those of the 2D and 1D CN catalysts, respectively. The 3D catalyst demonstrated superior performance, achieving an efficiency greater than 99% within 60 min under visible light irradiation in the presence of EDTA due to the abundance of active sites. The study also delved into the influence of factors such as the amount of EDTA-hole scavenger, pH, catalyst dosage, and temperature on the photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI). Moreover, the 3D catalyst showed excellent reusability, maintaining an efficiency of more than 80% even after 10 cycles, and performed effectively in real water samples. The 3D CN catalyst, with its facile synthesis process, excellent visible light harvesting properties, high reduction efficiency that sustains over multiple cycles, and outstanding performance in real water samples, presents a significant advancement for practical applications in environmental remediation. This research contributes to a new understanding of developing efficient degradation methods for heavy metals in polluted water, highlighting the potential of 3D g-C3N4 catalysts in environmental cleanup efforts.

Potential risks of accumulated microplastics in shells and soft tissues of cultured hard clams (Meretrix taiwanica) and associated metals.

Microplastics (MPs) pose risks to both aquatic ecosystems and human health. This study investigated MPs in the shells and soft tissues of hard clams (Meretrix taiwanica) cultured in the inland waters of Taiwan. This study further developed two novel risk indices for assessing the potential ecological and health consequences of MPs. Moreover, the metal concentrations in the clam's soft tissues and the associated consumption health risks were investigated. Clamshells contained significant amounts of MPs with an average abundance of 16.6 ± 6.9 MPs/ind., which was higher than in the soft tissues (2.7 ± 1.7 MPs/ind.). The distribution and sizes of MPs in shells and soft tissues were similar, primarily small-sized (<2 mm, >99 %), blue (>65 %), and fibrous (>99 %). Dominant MP polymer types included rayon (83.5 %), polyethylene terephthalate (11.8 %), and polyacrylonitrile (3.6 %). The proposed MP potential ecological risk index indicates a higher potential ecological MP risk in soft tissues (302-423) than in shells (270-278) of the clams. The MP potential hazard risk index showed that the risk of exposure to MP through shellfish consumption decreased with age. The total hazard index (THI) value suggested negligible health hazards from metal exposure through shellfish consumption. Moreover, there was no significant correlation between MPs and metal concentrations in soft tissues, suggesting that metals bound to MPs contribute minimally to the total accumulated metals in clam's soft tissues. This study confirms the presence of MPs in clam shells and provides a novel tool to assess the potential ecological and health risks associated with MPs in shellfish.

Novel food isolates with striking α-glucosidase inhibitory activity and probiotic potential for an antidiabetic role.

In the current study, ten lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolates exhibiting anti-α-glucosidase activity were isolated from fermented food. It is directed at novel supplementary diets to prevent/improve diet-induced carbohydrate metabolism disorders and related chronic diseases. Moreover, to evaluate their safety, functionality, and probiotic potential via in vitro simulated test conditions. From 16s-rRNA sequencing, Pediococcus acidilactici (NKUST 803, 845, 858), Lactobacillus plantarum (NKUST 817, 828, 851), Levilactobacillus brevis (NKUST 816, 855) and Lactobacillus acidophilus (NKUST 803, 863) were identified. The results showed that the isolates possessed anti-pathogenic activity, auto-aggregation ability, hydrophobicity (47.44-96.4%), and gastric acid-resistant activity (79-99.1%), which proved their potential for probiotics in nutraceuticals to render hypoglycemic activity or antidiabetic effects to the host positively. Among tested isolates, L. plantarum 817 and P. acidilactici 858 exhibited maximum α-glucosidase inhibitory (AGI) activity of 35-40%. The heat map clearly showed that L. plantarum 817 exhibited the best AGI activity and probiotic potential, among others. These were studied under various simulated gut conditions and safety tests. However, all isolates possess the potential to be used as probiotics in commercial-scale health applications. Pediococcus sp. possesses notable AGI activity but relatively less colonization potential in the gut hence recommended daily intake for positive health effects.

Recent progress in electro-Fenton technology for the remediation of pharmaceutical compounds in aqueous environments.

The global focus on wastewater treatment has intensified in the contemporary era due to its significant environmental and human health impacts. Pharmaceutical compounds (PCs) have become an emerging concern among various pollutants, as they resist conventional treatment methods and pose a severe environmental threat. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) emerge as a potent and environmentally benign approach for treating recalcitrant pharmaceuticals. To address the shortcomings of traditional treatment methods, a technology known as the electro-Fenton (EF) method has been developed more recently as an electrochemical advanced oxidation process (EAOP) that connects electrochemistry to the chemical Fenton process. It has shown effective in treating a variety of pharmaceutically active compounds and actual wastewaters. By producing H2O2 in situ through a two-electron reduction of dissolved O2 on an appropriate cathode, the EF process maximizes the benefits of electrochemistry. Herein, we have critically reviewed the application of the EF process, encompassing diverse reactor types and configurations, the underlying mechanisms involved in the degradation of pharmaceuticals and other emerging contaminants (ECs), and the impact of electrode materials on the process. The review also addresses the factors influencing the efficiency of the EF process, such as (i) pH, (ii) current density, (iii) H2O2 concentration, (iv) and others, while providing insight into the scalability potential of EF technology and its commercialization on a global scale. The review delves into future perspectives and implications concerning the ongoing challenges encountered in the operation of the electro-Fenton process for the treatment of PCs and other ECs.

Boosting acetaminophen degradation in water by peracetic acid activation: A novel approach using chestnut shell-derived biochar at varied pyrolysis temperatures.

In this study, biochar derived from chestnut shells was synthesized through pyrolysis at varying temperatures from 300 °C to 900 °C. The study unveiled that the pyrolysis temperature is pivotal in defining the physical and chemical attributes of biochar, notably its adsorption capabilities and its role in activating peracetic acid (PAA) for the efficient removal of acetaminophen (APAP) from aquatic environments. Notably, the biochar processed at 900 °C, referred to as CN900, demonstrated an exceptional adsorption efficiency of 55.8 mg g-1, significantly outperforming its counterparts produced at lower temperatures (CN300, CN500, and CN700). This enhanced performance of CN900 is attributed to its increased surface area, improved micro-porosity, and a greater abundance of oxygen-containing functional groups, which are a consequence of the elevated pyrolysis temperature. These oxygen-rich functional groups, such as carbonyls, play a crucial role in facilitating the decomposition of the O-O bond in PAA, leading to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) through electron transfer mechanisms. This investigation contributes to the development of sustainable and cost-effective materials for water purification, underscoring the potential of chestnut shell-derived biochar as an efficient adsorbent and catalyst for PAA activation, thereby offering a viable solution for environmental cleanup efforts.

A review of smart electrochemical devices for pesticide detection in agricultural food and runoff contaminants.

In the evolving field of food and agriculture, pesticide utilization is inevitable for food production and poses an increasing threat to the ecosystem and human health. This review systematically investigates and provides a comprehensive overview of recent developments in smart electrochemical devices for detecting pesticides in agricultural food and runoff contaminants. The focus encompasses recent progress in lab-scale and portable electrochemical sensors, highlighting their significance in agricultural pesticide monitoring. This review compares these sensors comprehensively and provides a scientific guide for future sensor development for infield agricultural pesticide monitoring and food safety. Smart devices address challenges related to power consumption, low cost, wearability, and portability, contributing to the advancement of agricultural sustainability. By elucidating the intricate details of these smart devices, this review offers a comprehensive discussion and roadmap for future research aimed at cost-effective, flexible, and smart handy devices, including novel electrocatalysts, to foster the development of next-generation agricultural sensor technology, opportunity and future direction for food security.

Advancements in Nano-Enhanced microalgae bioprocessing.

Microalgae are promising sources of valuable compounds: carotenoids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, lipids, etc. To overcome the feasibility challenge due to low yield and attain commercial potential, researchers merge technologies to enhance algal bioprocess. In this context, nanomaterials are attractive for enhancing microalgal bioprocessing, from cultivation to downstream extraction. Nanomaterials enhance biomass and product yields (mainly lipid and carotenoids) through improved nutrient uptake and stress tolerance during cultivation. They also provide mechanistic insights from recent studies. They also revolutionize harvesting via nano-induced sedimentation, flocculation, and flotation. Downstream processing benefits from nanomaterials, improving extraction and purification. Special attention is given to cost-effective extraction, showcasing nanomaterial integration, and providing a comparative account. The review also profiles nanomaterial types, including metallic nanoparticles, magnetic nanomaterials, carbon-based nanomaterials, silica nanoparticles, polymers, and functionalized nanomaterials. Challenges and future trends are discussed, emphasizing nanomaterials' role in advancing sustainable and efficient microalgal bioprocessing, unlocking their potential for bio-based industries.