Quantitative assessment and extraction efficiency of phycocyanin from Arthrospira (Spirulina): Impact of algal biomass quality

Phycocyanin (PC) is a valuable bioactive pigment widely studied for its extraction and purification from
Arthrospira biomass. This study investigated the effects of PC content in algal biomass and phosphate buffer
concentrations on extraction efficiency and extract quality. Twelve dried Arthrospira samples were analyzed for
PC content, which ranged from 6.46 % to 23.20 % of dry weight. Six samples with varying PC content were
extracted using a stirrer mixer at room temperature for 2 h, and the results showed that higher PC content in
algal biomass significantly improved extraction yield and purity. Extraction of sample No.11 (19.45 % PC
content) using 100 mM phosphate buffer achieved the highest yield (16.27 % of dry weight) and best quality,
with a purity ratio of 1.87 and 41.35 % PC content in the extract. Although a 10 mM phosphate buffer initially
showed lower extraction efficiency for this sample, a second extraction enhanced PC recovery by 85.61 %,
making it a cost-effective option for large-scale PC production.