Optimization and Evaluation of Enhanced Food Waste Lignin by Response Surface Methodology Using a Green Deep Eutectic Solvent System
摘要
Optimization of process parameters is crucial for maximizing lignin recovery and ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of eco-friendly deep eutectic solvent (DES)–based extraction. In the present study, the parametric sensitivity of the DES extraction was systematically investigated to optimize the process condition, thereby maximizing the yield of lignin extracted from banana and pomegranate peels following Response surface methodology (RSM). A Central composite design was employed to develop an empirical model for optimization of extraction parameters. Under optimized conditions, the highest lignin yields of 39.57 ± 0.12% and 55.65 ± 0.09% from pomegranate and banana peel were attained. Temperature and reaction time had shown a strong influence on the yield. The purity of lignin derived from banana and pomegranate peel was calculated to be 83.5% ± 1.35% and 85.4% ± 1.72%. UV–visible spectroscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analyses confirmed the presence of major functional groups of lignin. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopic images clearly revealed the agglomerated and spherical lignin particles, whereas X-ray diffraction verified its amorphous nature. Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy analysis showed a higher carbon and lower sulfur content compared to the commercially available lignin. The 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (NMR) identified the specific signals corresponding to methoxy, aliphatic, and aromatic protons of lignin. 2D Heteronuclear Single Quantum Coherence (HSQC) NMR analysis identified the major interunit linkages of lignin, along with their relative contents. Notably, over three consecutive cycles, recovered DES maintains lignin extraction efficiency. Overall, the yield of lignin was remarkably increased by optimizing the DES-based extraction parameters following RSM.