Wild Plant Sources for the Extraction and Processing of Biopolymers
摘要
Wild and non-domesticated plants are increasingly recognised as renewable sources of various biopolymers such as cellulose, starch, pectin, lignin, and natural gums. These biomaterials are synthesized via photosynthesis, making them inherently ecological and biodegradable. The vast biodiversity of wild flora offers unexplored reservoirs of new polysaccharides with unique structural and functional properties. For instance, wild and exotic fruit species such as Acacia senegal yields high-value gums and pectins, while certain invasive plants like Opuntia ficus-indica produce cellulose-rich fibers suitable for sustainable biocomposite applications. Biopolymer extraction usually employs conventional acid or alkaline-based hydrolysis methods, but recent trends favor green and sustainable techniques such as enzymatic hydrolysis, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and deep eutectic solvents to improve environmental performance and compatibility. Light cells increase the recovery of cellulose and pectin with lower chemical entry. The appreciation of wild biomass supports a circular bioeconomy, as many wild species grow in marginal lands without irrigation or fertilizers, offering ecological and economic advantages. The integration of wild plant sources in the production of biopolymers is a great promise for the science of sustainable materials and industrial applications.