Work

Process optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction coupled with resin adsorption for recovery and purification of phenolic antioxidants from Ulex europaeus

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Ulex europaeus , a widely distributed invasive species, represents a promising source of phenolic compounds with potential for industrial valorisation. Given its underexploited chemical richness, advancing efficient and sustainable routes for its fractionation is essential, and this study represents one key stage within a pathway toward gorse-based biorefinery schemes. This study proposes a sustainable strategy based on ultrasound-assisted extraction using an ethanol/water mixture 50 % (v/v), combined with a purification step using non-ionic polymeric resins (SEPABEADS SP700). Extraction conditions (amplitude, temperature and time) were optimized through a Box–Behnken design, achieving an extraction yield of 26.27 % and a phenolic content of 9.68 g GAE/100 g extract under optimal conditions (90 %, 41 °C, 70 min, respectively). Resin treatment increased the phenolic content to 18.84 g GAE/100 g extract, improving extract purity. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated using ABTS, FRAP, and DPPH assays. Phenolic compounds were identified by HPLC–MS/MS, revealing 23 polyphenols, with genistein (89.80 mg/100 g) and vitexin (82.58 mg/100 g) as the most abundant. Overall, the results highlight the critical role of chemical engineering in designing sustainable and efficient processes for biomass valorisation.

Source: Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry

DOI: 10.1016/j.jiec.2026.01.026

Authors: Pablo Rodríguez, María Dolores Torres, Sandra Rivas

Institution: Universidade de Vigo

Language: English

Topic: Phytochemicals and Antioxidant Activities

Subfield: Biochemistry

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,500