Suberin from bark
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Suberin from Bark: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction to Suberin in Bark
Suberin is a complex biopolymer found in the bark of various tree species. It plays a crucial role in protecting plants against environmental stresses and pathogen invasion. This article synthesizes recent research on the structural elucidation, isolation, and potential applications of suberin derived from tree bark.
Structural Composition of Suberin
Chemical Composition and Monomers
Suberin is composed of a variety of long-chain fatty acids, glycerol, and phenolic compounds. Studies on willow bark have identified fatty acid methyl esters (C17-C19), mono-carboxylic acids (C7-C16), alpha, omega-dicarboxylic acids (C7-C16), and omega-hydroxy long-chain fatty acids (C16-C22) as major components. Similarly, research on poplar bark has shown that suberin contains acylglycerols, cross-linked polyphenolics, and solvent-extractable waxes. The presence of glycerol and alpha, omega-diacids in suberin supports a polymeric structure based on their successive esterification.
Analytical Methods for Characterization
Advanced analytical techniques such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-Tof) have been employed to characterize suberin. These methods have revealed that suberin is rich in diols, fatty acids, hydroxyacids, and their corresponding esters. Additionally, enzymatic isolation methods have been used to obtain polymeric suberin, providing valuable insights into its native form.
Isolation and Extraction Techniques
Saponification and Methanolysis
Saponification and methanolysis are common methods for isolating suberin from bark. Saponification of willow bark yielded approximately 5 wt% suberin, which was then analyzed to identify 23 different compounds. Methanolysis has been used to depolymerize suberin from Pseudotsuga menziesii and Quercus suber, allowing for the quantification of glycerol and long-chain monomers.
Use of Ionic Liquids
Ionic liquids such as cholinium hexanoate have been shown to efficiently extract suberin from birch outer bark and cork. This method results in the isolation of partially depolymerized suberin, which retains its cross-linked nature and is composed mainly of long-chain hydroxyacids.
Applications of Suberin
Hydrophobic Coatings
Suberin fatty acids hydrolysates (SFA) extracted from birch bark have been investigated for their potential use in wood coatings. When combined with maleic anhydride and octadecyltrichlorosilane, SFA can create hydrophobic coatings on wood surfaces, significantly enhancing water resistance.
Biorefinery and Material Science
Suberin's unique chemical structure makes it a promising candidate for the development of bio-based polymeric materials. Its long-chain monomers with terminal carboxylic and hydroxy groups are particularly suited for creating polymers with novel architectures and properties. The valorization of suberin-rich agro-forest residues can contribute to sustainable biorefinery production chains.
Conclusion
Suberin from tree bark is a versatile biopolymer with significant potential in various applications, from hydrophobic coatings to bio-based materials. Advanced analytical techniques and innovative extraction methods continue to enhance our understanding of suberin's structure and properties, paving the way for its integration into sustainable industrial processes.
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