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Integrated Green Chemical Approach to the Medicinal Plant Carpobrotus edulis Processing
Sergiy Lyubchyk1, Olesia Shapovalova2, Olena Lygina2
1REQUIMTE, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Quina de Torre, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal. se.lyubchyk@fct.unl.pt.
Scientific Reports
|December 5, 2019
Summary
This study optimized phytochemical extraction and biochar production from Carpobrotus edulis using microwave-assisted methods. Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) is highly energy-efficient, yielding valuable flavonoids.
Area of Science:
- Phytochemistry
- Green Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Medicinal plants contain phytochemicals valuable for various applications.
- Efficient extraction and processing methods are crucial for utilizing plant resources.
- Carpobrotus edulis, a widespread weed, possesses potential medicinal properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an integrated, energy-efficient process for extracting phytochemicals and producing biochar from Carpobrotus edulis.
- To evaluate the efficiency of microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and microwave-assisted activation (MAA) for this purpose.
- To characterize the phytochemicals and biochar obtained.
Main Methods:
- Developed a closed-loop process combining MAE for phytochemical extraction and MAA for residual biomass activation.
- Quantified phytochemical yield and characterized compounds using LC-MS and screening assays.
- Assessed biochar properties, including yield, surface area, and pore volume.
Main Results:
- MAE demonstrated significantly higher energy efficiency (up to 97%) and reduced process time (7-8 times faster) compared to Soxhlet extraction.
- Extracts yielded 27% with high flavonoid content (up to 24%).
- MAA produced biochar with a high yield (65%) and favorable textural properties (surface area: 68.9 m²/g).
Conclusions:
- The integrated MAE and MAA approach offers an energy-efficient and effective method for valorizing Carpobrotus edulis.
- This process yields valuable phytochemicals, particularly flavonoids, and high-quality biochar.
- Microwave-assisted technologies present a sustainable alternative for processing medicinal plant waste.
