Determination of The Concentration of Chemical Elements in The Walnut Septum Using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry
Abstract
This article provides a comprehensive investigation into the chemical composition of the walnut (Juglans regia L.) fruit septum, specifically focusing on the methodologies for preparing dry ash mass from the laminae and the subsequent extraction processes from the resulting ash. The analytical study was conducted using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES), which enabled the screening of 68 distinct chemical elements. The findings reveal that among the elements analysed, 35 chemical elements exhibited concentrations exceeding the Limit of Detection (<LOD). Notably, five specific macro-elements were identified in substantial quantities, demonstrating an increasing concentration gradient in the order of Na < P < Mg < K < Ca. Given that the walnut septum is exceptionally rich in these 35 macro- and micro-elements, the study provides strategic recommendations for its utilisation as an effective and promising raw material in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly for the development and production of therapeutic food supplements and nutraceuticals.