The Yield and Bioactivity of Rotenone Extracted from Derris Elliptica

This research helps understand the effects of the processing parameters in the batch solid-liquid extraction process towards the yield of rotenoids resin, rotenone and their biological activities. The correlation determined between all independent variables via statistical analysis would further promote and enhance the usage of rotenoids resin as a phytochemical pesticide or botanical insecticide products. Understanding the effect of processing parameters against the yield of rotenoids resin, rotenone and their biological activities are essential in designing a better processing technology to maintain and preserve the bio-active constituents in the extracts and rotenoids resin effectively. Although genus Derris roots have been identified as a potential cash crop due to its abundance growth in Malaysia, no research work of its own native species has been conducted locally. Therefore, the opportunities to develop an option to the synthetic pesticides by developing an environmental-friendly natural bio-pesticide from local plant species is the main rationale of why this extensive research work should be completed and carried out successfully.

Saiful Irwan Zubairi obtained his B.Eng. (Hons) in Chemical Engineering (Bioprocess) and M.Eng. in Chemical Engineering (Phytochemical Processing) at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Skudai, Johor. He is currently a PhD candidate at Imperial College London, United Kingdom conducting research in the area of Biomaterial Engineering.