Emerging seaweed extraction techniques: Enzyme-assisted extraction a key step of seaweed biorefinery?

Nolwenn Terme^a, Kévin Hardouin^a, Hugo Pliego Cortès^a, Ana Peñuela^b, Yolanda Freile-Pelegrín^b, Daniel Robledo^b, Gilles Bedoux^a, Nathalie Bourgougnon^a

Univ. Bretagne-Sud, EA 3884, LBCM, IUEM, Vannes, France.

Abstract

Historically, enzyme-assisted extraction was applied to seaweeds to find a new ecofriendly way for phycocolloid extraction. A first evolution in the use of this novel extraction method leads to active fractions from seaweeds (not only polysaccharides) for agriculture, health, food, feed, or cosmetic applications. Since 2015, a second evolution has occurred. The aim is to develop processes for total biomass upgrading in a biorefinery concept. The combination of processes and technologies for conversion of a biomass into valuable products with minimal wastes offers a way to develop sustainable economies and reduce impact on climate change. In this way, enzymes are not used as a unique tool for extraction. Enzyme-assisted extraction proceeds as a step of a whole process and can be combined with other tools like microwaves, ultrasound, or pressurized liquids. This chapter deals with these evolutions for better use of the natural resource represented by seaweeds.

Keywords: EAE, Biorefinery, Seaweeds, Bioprocess, Upgrading.