Exploring the biorefinery potential of Acrocomia aculeata: A native Mexican palm for sustainable resource valorization

Abstract

The coyol (Acrocomia aculeata) is a native plant of Mexico that holds great potential as a crop due to its high fruit yield and relatively unexplored. This study aims to contribute significant insights into the physicochemical properties, macro, and micro composition of two Mexican coyol (Acrocomia aculeata) varieties from Veracruz and Chiapas and their potential integration into biorefinery processes. The results of this study indicate that the Acrocomia aculeata (Chiapas) crop could potentially yield approximately 6.49 to 23.09 tons per hectare of fruits. The kernel and mesocarp of the coyol fruit show promise as viable alternatives, with high yields of 5.81–11.34 tons/ha and 0.89–1.75 tons/ha, respectively, and an oil yield of 11.51 net tons/ha. Furthermore, the epicarp and mesocarp could perform as significant reserves of sustainable energy, containing substantial amounts of lignocellulosic material ranging from 2.58–5.05 tons/ha and 3.51–6.85 tons/ha, respectively. Consequently, the coyol fruit, including its mesocarp, kernel, epicarp, and kernel shell, presents an extraordinary potential as an energy source, for biofuel production, food-related activities, and as a chemical resource within the framework of the biorefinery concept. Continued exploration of this species in Mexico and America is encouraged due to its promising and sustainable nature, which can yield numerous long-term benefits.