Chemical characterization of cherry (Prunus avium) extract in comparison with commercial mimosa and chestnut tannins

In a growing context of green and circular economy, gaining knowledge of the composition of every crop is crucial, as this will allow for their full exploitation. Cherry (Prunus avium L.) is a widespread tree of particular interest for its fruits and its valuable timber. Its wood is rich in extractives and its characterization will allow to consider other applications for this feedstock. In this study, chipped cherry wood was extracted and chemically analysed to determine its total phenolic content, total condensed tannin, antioxidant capacity, and polysaccharide content through wet chemistry analysis. These investigations were coupled with C-13-NMR and FTIR spectrometry, with HPLC as well as elemental analysis to conduct a comprehensive chemical characterization. Thermogravimetric measurements were also taken to understand the behaviour of the extract when exposed to high temperature. The registered findings were benchmarked against commercial mimosa (Acacia mearnsii De Wild.) and chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) tannins which were selected as template for condensed and hydrolysable tannins, respectively. Cherry extract was found to be the poorest in phenolics which are mainly constituted of pyrogallic flavonoids strongly interconnected with significant amounts of polysaccharides.