abstract
- Most common cellulose extraction methods use alkaline conditions to break down lignin structure. Ferulic and gallic acids as well as rutin, luteolin or tannins are found in peels, seeds, leaves and pomace. Traditional alkaline cellulose extraction generates an effluent commonly known as black liquor that contains phytochemicals that can be isolated for multiple applications. Solvent extraction is being substituted by emerging technologies to increase the yield of phytochemicals but for their recovery from black liquor, mostly ethyl acetate partitioning has been used. When the starting purpose of extraction is the recovery of phytochemicals, cellulose rich residues are a by-product used for biofuel production, topical formulations or traditional cellulose substitutes. Along with phytochemicals, Phthalate Acid Esters (PAEs) found in mulching films used for intensive agriculture may be extracted. Therefore, circular economy strategies to revalorize waste not only have an impact on biomass reutilization but also could be an alternative for phthalates remediation.