Extraction, identification and antifungal activity of polar extractives originated from various wood species

Extractives are non-cell wall small molecules present in wood and other lignocellulosic materials that can be removed by solvents. Although they represent a minor fraction in comparison with the structural cell wall components, they are an important source of functional groups or molecules with bioactivity or antioxidant properties, that could be used in medicine, cosmetic or wood preservation. The increasing social and economic interest in obtaining chemical compounds from sustainable sources has motivated this research study. It is expected that the identification of alternative uses of native and tropical wood by-products coming from the wood processing industries, will promote the circular bioeconomy which demands a truthful environmental development. This study includes the preparation of samples, accelerated extraction and chemical identification of polar components from different wood species, and finally, complementary tests on possible antifungal activities focused on the creation of novel wood preservation products. The preliminary results indicate potential of some compounds as natural additives for wood preservation. Additional tests in wood samples are required to guarantee its feasibility and upscaling.