RENOUER - Sonochemical extraction of polyphenols contained in Japanese knotweed

Sonochemical extraction of plant-derived polyphenols (resveratrol and other molecules of interest) from Japanese knotweed (invasive alien species)

CONTEXT
Conventional processes for extracting polyphenols from plant materials have several drawbacks: energy-consuming processes, requiring non-ecological solvents (e.g. chlorinated solvents), relatively long extraction times, etc.

TECHNOLOGY
The process developed involves power ultrasound (sonochemistry) to extract the polyphenols contained in Japanese knotweed. The development of know-how in a succession of adapted grinding, extraction and purification steps is the key element of the process.

ADVANTAGES
Sonochemistry in green chemistry offers many advantages over other extraction techniques, in particular, low installation costs, the use of environmentally friendly solvents, low energy consumption and fast and efficient implementation.

MATURITY
This project is based on unconventional activation methods developed at the LCME. After optimization of an environmentally coherent process, studies are underway to produce samples of the required quality for the markets. Other molecules of interest are also separated and purified.

APPLICATIONS
This project is based on unconventional activation methods developed at the LCME. After optimization of an environmentally coherent process, studies are underway to produce samples of the required quality for the markets. Other molecules of interest are also separated and purified.

EXPLOITATION

This innovative process is industrialised and the molecules are commercialised by the startup Rhizomex implanted at Chambery-Bourget du Lac (Savoie, France).

See : http://www.rhizomex.com/