Optimizing homogenizer-assisted extraction of chlorophylls from plantain epicarp (Musa paradisiaca L.)

Abstract

The objective of this study was to establish parameters of optimization of the factors such as solid/solvent ratio, stirring speed and extraction time in homogenizer-assisted extraction (HAE) of chlorophyll a, b and total from plantain epicarp (Musa paradisiaca L.) using the Box–Benhken design. The individual effect and the interactions of the process variables (solid/solvent ratio, stirring speed (revolutions per minute, rpm), and extraction time in HAE) on the chlorophyll a, b and total contents in the extract were studied. The optimization was carried out with a Derringer desirability function, and it was found that the optimal extraction conditions included a solid/solvent ratio of 0.025 g/mL, an stirring speed of 13,508 and 90 s of treatment with Ultra-turrax. The corresponding predicted values were 33.67 mg/100 g of chlorophyll a, 32.915 mg/100 g of chlorophyll b and 66.585 mg/100 g of total chlorophyll. Finally, the optimal conditions were experimentally verified, and it was established that extraction with an Ultra-Turrax treatment is more efficient than the conventional method (maceration).