Recovery of Active Ingredients from Biomass

Definition of Bioactive Compounds (Active Ingredients)

  Bioactive compounds are defined as natural ingredients that have various bioactivity, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer. In general, bioactive compounds are secondary metabolites of organisms such as plants and algae, and biomass contains various bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, vitamins, and carotenoids. Our research group aims to develop a sustainable biorefinery platform by recovery and application of bioactive compounds in biomass. In particular, we are currently working on the discovery, extraction, identification, and valorization of bioactive compounds. 

Various extraction methods for recovery of bioactive compounds

  Extraction is a process performed to recover bioactive compounds from biomass. The extraction using solvents is widely utilized in industry and includes maceration, ultrasound-assisted (UAE), and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE). Maceration is a traditional method that utilizes the principle of diffusion of useful compounds within biomass into the extraction solvent. UAE is a method that promotes the release of useful compounds by increasing mass transfer through the cavitation effect generated by ultrasound. MAE is a method that uses generated heat by microwaves to enhance the diffusion of useful compounds. 

Maximize the Recovery of Active Ingredients in Biomass

  Our research group developed an efficient extraction process by statistical optimization to maximize the recovery of active ingredients (bioactive compounds) from biomass such as persimmon calyx, ecklonia, elderberry, peanut shell, mandarin peel, and aronia. We reported a significantly improved recovery of bioactive compounds via optimization of the extraction process. 

  In the persimmon calyx extraction process, phenolics and flavonoids were recovered. We investigated the effects of major extraction parameters (ethanol concentration, extraction temperature, and extraction time) on the recovery of phenolics and flavonoids to determine the optimal extraction. Under the optimal condition, 21.7 g phenolics and 11.7 g flavonoids were predicted to be recovered per 1,000 g dry biomass.

Application of extracts in various product

  Extracts, which contain high levels of bioactive compounds and show high bioactivity, can be applied in the bioindustry as functional ingredients in various products. Our research group is working on the application of extracts in various products (e.g. polymers, and cosmetics).

  (A) Mandarin extracts, rich in hesperidin and narirutin, showed high antibacterial and antioxidant activity, which were mixed with polymers to fabricate bioelastomer that can be used as functional materials in the food, pharmaceutical, and medical industries. 

  (B) Aloe vera peel extract, rich in aloin, exhibited antioxidant activity and was utilized to produce functional cosmetics (mists and lotions) that are expected to have anti-aging functions.