Driving innovation in algae-based biorefineries for sustainable ingredient production.
From lab to pilot scale, we design and optimise biorefinery processes that transform microalgae and seaweed biomass into pigments, proteins, and polysaccharides. Our goal is to create functional ingredients for nutraceutical, cosmetic, and agriculture and feed applications.
We develop eco-efficient extraction and fractionation processes, combining high-pressure homogenisation, enzymatic hydrolysis, and membrane filtration and other advanced techniques to ensure efficient extraction, purification, and valorisation of algal biomass fractions within a circular economy.
We bridge the gap between research and industry through pilot-scale validation of biorefinery workflows. Our work ensures process scalability, retention of bioactivity, and alignment with the goals of the blue bioeconomy.
We offer advanced services for processing algal biomass and developing sustainable biorefinery solutions.
Led by Mariam Kholany and supported by a dynamic team including Bernardo Carvalho, Rafael Vitorino, Carlos Gamarano, Inês Guerra, Pedro Cunha and Vítor Spinola, the Biorefinery group combines biotechnology, chemistry, and engineering expertise to develop sustainable and scalable algae-based processes.
Our Biorefinery Lab combines advanced equipment and multidisciplinary expertise to process algal biomass from laboratory to pilot scale. The facilities include high-pressure homogenisers, membrane filtration units, centrifuges, enzymatic hydrolysis reactors, and spray dryers, supporting efficient extraction, fractionation, and purification of high-value algal ingredients through sustainable processes
