Comprehensive resource utilization of peony seeds shell: Extraction of active ingredients, preparation and application of activated carbon

Abstract

In this paper, a new high value-added biomass conversion route was proposed. Oligostilbenes in peony seeds shell (PSS) were extracted by ethanol, and high-performance activated carbon (ACPSR) was prepared by peony seeds shell residue (PSR). The content of the main oligostilbenes in the extract was determined by HPLC, and the biological activity of the extract was also evaluated. ACPSR was systematically characterized, and the adsorption performance of phenol was optimized by response surface methodology (RSM), and the adsorption mechanism was also studied. The results showed that the ethanol extract of PSS was rich in oligostilbenes, which had strong antioxidant, antibacterial and antitumor activities. ACPSR had a high specific surface area (1499.5 m2.g−1)and a highly developed pore structure(1.49 cm3.g−1). ACPSR could effectively remove phenol pollutants in solution, and when the dosage of adsorbent was 0.33 g.L−1, the initial concentration was 71.5 mg.L−1, the pH value was 5.1 and the ultrasonic time was 3.0 min, the optimal adsorption efficiency of ACPSR was 93.11%. As an economical and environmentally friendly biomass precursor, PSS had great potential in the development of food additives and drugs with good biological activities, as well as efficient adsorbents for the remediation of water pollution. This study provided useful reference for the high value-added conversion of waste biomass, and opened up a broad prospect for the application of the conversion products.