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Current status and future prospects of microalgae-based degradation of spent lubricant oil hydrocarbon towards environmental sustainability: a mini review and bibliometric analysis

Summary

Spent oil waste from cars and industries is a major environmental problem that traditional cleanup methods struggle to handle. This review shows that microalgae, tiny organisms that are already used for various purposes, can effectively break down the harmful chemicals in used oil. A bibliometric analysis reveals that scientists worldwide, especially in China, are increasingly researching this promising green solution to clean up oil pollution in soil and water.

Background

Spent oil waste (SOW) is a significant environmental pollutant generated from industrial processes and automotive activities, with global generation projected to reach 3.4 billion tons per year by 2050. Traditional physicochemical treatment methods are costly and produce secondary pollutants. Microalgae have emerged as a promising eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative for SOW biodegradation.

Objective

This review aims to highlight the biodegradative capabilities of microalgae and provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to assess current research activities and trends in microalgae-based biodegradation of spent oil waste from 1882 to 2023.

Results

Results showed an 80.23% increase in publications from 2005-2023. China led with 887 publications, followed by the USA and India. Environmental Science was the most productive subject category, Bioresource Technology the top journal, and Harbin Institute of Technology the leading organization. Microalgae species including Scenedesmus, Chlorella, and Chlamydomonas demonstrated significant degradation rates for alkanes, aromatics, and polychlorinated compounds.

Conclusion

Microalgae represent a promising bio-based solution for SOW remediation due to their cost-effectiveness, environmental friendliness, and high adaptability. The bibliometric analysis reveals growing global research interest, particularly in Asia, with strong collaboration networks among leading institutions. Further research is needed to optimize microalgae-based treatment systems for practical environmental applications.
  • Published in:Archives of Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Review, Bibliometric Analysis,
  • Source: PMID: 40387936, DOI: 10.1007/s00203-025-04332-0
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