METHOD OF LIQUID SMOKE PRODUCTION FROM CAPE CANDY (Melaleuca Leucadendron) BIOMASS BY GAS PHASE ADSORPTION USING ACTIVE BIOCHAR AND THE PRODUCTS IT PRODUCES

Abstract

The present invention discloses an integrated method for the production of high-quality liquid smoke (pyroligneous acid, PA) from eucalyptus (Melaleuca leucadendron) biomass through a combination of slow pyrolysis and gas-phase adsorption using acid-activated biochar. The process begins with the pyrolysis of dry biomass at 450–550 °C for 4–6 hours to produce pyrolysis vapor, which is then passed through an adsorption column containing the same biomass pyrolyzed biochar activated with 12N HCl. This adsorption step significantly increases the content of functional compounds, namely acetic acid (≥44%) and phenol (≥6%), while reducing the levels of tar (≤2% dry weight) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs, ≤5% dry weight). The final product exhibits antioxidant activity (IC50 <2200 ppm) and effective antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.This invention offers a sustainable, efficient, and economical solution for producing safe and functional PAs for food, pharmaceutical, and environmental applications.