Kernel characteristics, oil contents, fatty acid compositions and biodiesel properties in developing Siberian apricot (Prunus sibirica L.) seeds

摘要

Kernel characteristics, oil contents, fatty acid compositions and biodiesel properties were studied in developing Siberian apricot (Prunus sibirica L.) seeds, at intervals of I week from 3 weeks after anthesis to 10 weeks. Variation of kernel dry biomass, kernel length, kernel breadth and kernel thickness were significant (P 0.01). Oil content increased with maturity and reached the highest point at 8 weeks after anthesis (51.6%). Changes in the content of oleic acid (C18:1) and linoleic acid (C18:2) presented an opposite trend that oleic acid increased, whereas linoleic acid decreased until 7 weeks after anthesis. Siberian apricot methyl esters meet the specifications better in biodiesel standards when seeds were harvested at 8, 9 and 10 weeks after anthesis. Siberian apricot seeds harvested after 8 weeks after anthesis may be suitable for producing biodiesel. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.