Optimization of N-hexane and Methanol Solvents on Total Phenol Levels of Gnetum gnemon Peel Extract in the Production of Biopesticide

Abstract

The excessive use of chemical pesticides has led to pest resistance and the accumulation of residues. Pest resistance occurs when pests become immune to pesticides and require higher doses or stronger pesticides for control. This study aims to identify the optimal solvent for dissolving secondary metabolite compounds that selectively and safely kill or inhibit the growth of plant pests. The biopesticide used is derived from melinjo bark extract through the process of soxhlet extraction using methanol and N-hexane solvents. The study employed a two-factor factorial design with three variables. The findings revealed that methanol solvent was more effective in dissolving phenolic compounds, resulting in a phenol content of 34.23 mg/equivalent Gallic Acid. The optimal solvent ratio was achieved at a ratio of 600 ml. The highest yield, reaching 56.27%, was obtained when using methanol as the solvent. Moreover, the pest mortality rate was found to be 100% at the specified concentration.