Bio-sorbents, industrially important chemicals and novel materials from citrus processing waste as a sustainable and renewable bioresource: A review

Abstract

Citrus waste includes peels, pulp and membrane residue and seeds, constituting approximately 40-60% of the whole fruit. This amount exceeds ~110-120 million tons annually worldwide. Recent investigations have been focused on developing newer techniques to explore various applications of the chemicals obtained from the citrus wastes. The organic acids obtained from citrus waste can be utilized in developing biodegradable polymers and functional materials for food processing, chemical and pharmaceutical industries. The peel microstructures have been investigated to create bio-inspired materials. The peel residue can be processed to produce fibers and fabrics, 3D printed materials, carbon nanodots for bio-imaging, energy storage materials and nanostructured materials for various applications so as to leave no waste at all. The article reviews recent advances in scientific investigations to produce valuable products from citrus wastes and possibilities of innovating future materials and promote zero remaining waste for a cleaner environment for future generation.