Optimization of a technique to quantify the total phenolic compounds in jambolan ( Syzygium cumini Lamark) pulp

Abstract There are various known extraction methods that can be applied to the quantification of phenolic compounds, and thus it is up to the researcher to perfect the process that best applies to the sample in question. Different extraction solvents (liquid-liquid extraction) were compared in order to assess their effectiveness for the analysis of total phenols in jambolan ( Syzygium cumini Lamark) pulp extract using the conventional Folin-Ciocalteau methodology. Three CCRDs (Central Composite Rotational Designs) were carried out to evaluate the factors influencing the extraction process conditions. The variables studied were the solvent concentration (ethanol and methanol, diluted in water) and the mixing time in the compound extraction process. Of the conditions studied, it was shown that a 60% ethanol in water extraction solvent with a mixing time of 10 minutes, in addition to extracting a greater concentration of phenolic compounds, showed the greatest cost benefit advantage, since ethanol is cheaper and less toxic than methanol.