Synthesis of PHEMA-Based Polymeric Particles for Gallic Acid Purification

Gallic acid is commonly found in fungi and plants, particularly in thuja, oak bark, sumac, grapes, and tea leaves. Due to its antioxidant, anticancer, anti-HIV, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antifungal properties, it is widely used in the field of health, as well as in various fields such as cosmetics, food, printing and dyeing industries. Therefore, the purification of gallic acid is of great importance. In this study, VIM functionalized particles were synthesized for the purification of gallic acid. The synthesized particles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, swelling studies and surface area measurements. Maximum gallic acid adsorption was obtained as 54.5 mg/g particles. The reusability of the particles was tested with repeated adsorption-desorption cycles and it was concluded that the decrease in the adsorption capacity of the particles was negligible.