Insecticidal and bactericidal characteristics of the bio-oil from the fast pyrolysis of coffee grounds

Each of the bio-oils produced between 400 and 600 °C were tested for bactericidal and insecticidal activities against pests found on plants in Canada that currently require improved control options. The dried coffee grounds bio-oil showed significant activity towards two bacteria (Streptomyces scabies and Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis) and the Colorado Potato Beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say). The bio-oil was fractionated and tested for bactericidal and insecticidal activity. The most active fractions were analyzed using GC-MS. While some compounds in the bio-oil were active against both the insect and bacteria, the coffee grounds bio-oil also contained chemicals that provided additional insecticidal activity with no bactericidal activity.