Applied Chemical Engineering

Green Analytical Approach: Determination of Polyphenols and Mineral Content in Pomegranate Peel Using ICP-MS, UV-Vis, and HPLC/LC-MS.

Mohammed Ali Hussein

University of Al-Iraqia – Department of Chemistry/Iraq

Fatima Ali Hussain

Ministry of Education /Baghdad/ Iraq

Saja Farhan Abdullah

University of Al-Iraqia – Department of Chemistry/Iraq

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59429/ace.v9i1.5873

Keywords: Pomegranate peel; Natural deep eutectic solvent (NaDES); Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE); Polyphenols; ICP-MS; UV-Vis; Green analytical chemistry

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Abstract

Pomegranate peel is a natural considerable agro-industrial waste with high polyphenolics and essential minerals which can be used as functional ingredients. This work also suggests the green analytical approach comprising natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDES) coupled with UAE for effective recovery of polyphenols from pomegranate peel along with ICP-MS for multi-element mineral profiling and UV-Vis for total phenolic/flavonoid content and antioxidant activity. Method optimisation (DES composition, solvent:solid ratio, ultrasound time and temperature) and validation (recovery, precision, LOD/LOQ) are described. Expected outcomes include improved polyphenol yield with selected NaDES (e.g., glycerol:choline chloride or lactic acid-based systems) versus conventional ethanol, and accurate quantification of minerals (K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn) with limits of detection in the low µg•kg⁻¹ range by ICP-MS. Results will be discussed in light of green chemistry, circular economy, and potential nutraceutical applications.

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