# Valorization of Caryocar brasiliense Byproducts: Microwave-Assisted Extraction of Phenolics and Material Characterization for Environmental and Bioenergy Applications

## TL;DR

This paper explores the potential of using parts of the pequi fruit, like bark and almonds, for environmental and industrial applications by extracting valuable compounds.

## Contribution

The study introduces microwave-assisted extraction and material characterization of pequi byproducts for bioenergy and environmental uses.

## Key findings

- Pequi byproducts contain high lignin, holocellulose, and lipid contents suitable for industrial applications.
- Microwave-assisted extraction effectively releases bioactive compounds from pequi materials.
- Pequi tree bark has high tannin and phenolic content, making it a potential natural coagulant.

## Abstract

The exploitation
of the pequi (Caryocar brasiliense) fruit generates underutilized agro-industrial residues, such as
endocarps and almonds, which are rich in value-added compounds. In
addition to these residues, other parts of the plant, such as the
bark, also present technological potential that remains largely unexplored.
This work aimed to physicochemically characterize these byproducts
to evaluate their potential for environmental and industrial applications
within the context of the bioeconomy and circular economy. Almonds
(AM), thorny endocarp (PTE), a mixture of endocarp and almond (PTEA),
and pequi tree bark (PTB) were analyzed using physicochemical, thermal,
textural, and morphological characterization techniques. The results
revealed significant contents of lignin (up to 34.26%), holocellulose
(up to 56.25%), and lipids (up to 47.82%), as well as the presence
of phenolic compounds (193.73 mgGAE g–1), with potential for use as natural coagulants. The materials exhibited
compact morphology and predominantly mesoporous structures (2–50
nm), with specific surface areas ranging from 0.32 to 0.71 m2 g–1. Analysis of the solid residues after microwave-assisted
extraction indicated structural changes that facilitate the release
of bioactive compounds. PTB stood out for its lignocellulosic composition
and high content of tannins and phenolic compounds, while AM showed
a high lipid content, demonstrating viability for bio-oil production.
These findings highlight the potential of these materials for clean
and sustainable technologies, contributing to the mitigation of environmental
impact and generating value in regional production chains.