Title: researcher

Association/Company: DIFARMA Università degli Studi di Salerno

Biography:
Dr. Francesco Del Prete is a researcher in Pharmaceutical Technology at the Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Italy. He obtained a Ph.D. degree in Science and Technology of Agro-Food Production from the University of Naples Federico II in 2011. In 2016, moved to the Arizona Center for Algae Technology and Innovation at the University of Arizona. His main research areas include tech- and bio-technologies to produce microalgal biomass in indoor artificial systems for applications in agriculture, phyto-remediation, and health products. He also focuses on eco-design, development, and characterization of extracts, using green technologies, and formulation of health products.

Speech session
Bioraffineria di microalghe: economia circolare, scala e prospettive

Speech
A technological and eco-sustainable approach to produce microalgae, functional derivatives, and health ingredients

Abstract
Microalgae are the source of several valuable bioactive compounds heightening their demand in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and agrifood sectors. Our research within the scope of AGRITECH (National Research Centre for Agricultural Technologies-PNNR_CN00000022) investigates a sustainable approach for indoor microalgae biomass and their derivatives (i.e. functional extracts) production by optimizing the recovery and reuse of residual process materials. As additional value, the obtained derivatives undergo to microencapsulation process by spray drying technology to enhance stability and bioavailability of resultant health product. Our research represents a significant stride in the sustainable valorization of microalgae, paving the way for the development of products with benefits for the environment and human health.