Ultrasonically enhanced extraction of bioactive principles from Quillaja Saponaria Molina

A study of ultrasonic enhancement in the extraction of bioactive principles from Quillaja Saponaria Molina (Quillay) is presented. The effects influencing the extraction process were studied through a two-level factorial design. The effects considered in the experimental design were: granulometry, extraction time, acoustic Power, raw matter/solvent ratio (concentration) and acoustic impedance.It was found that for aqueous extraction the main factors affecting the ultrasonically-assisted process were: granulometry, raw matter/solvent ratio and extraction time. The extraction ratio was increased by Ultrasonics effect and a reduction in extraction time was verified without any influence in the product quality. In addition the process can be carried out at lower temperatures than the conventional method.As the process developed uses chips from the branches of trees, and not only the bark, this research contributes to make the saponin exploitation process a sustainable industry.

Research highlights
► Ultrasonic enhancement in the extraction of bioactive principles from Quillaja Saponaria Molina (Quillay) chips was studied.
► Using a two level factorial design the effects of granulometry, extraction time, acoustic power, concentration and acoustic impedance of treatment chamber were considered.
► It was found that no improvement in the process was achieved if system is not in cavitation.
► It was found that for aqueous extraction the main factors affecting the ultrasonic process were: Granulometry, raw matter/solvent ratio and extraction time.