Microencapsulation of essential oil of molle (Schinus Molle) against the aphid Macrosiphum euphorbiae

Abstract

The essential oil of molle (Schinus molle) has proven biocidal activity, which can be enhanced by spray-drying. Therefore, an emulsion was prepared with this oil and chitosan (1:2) to be later micro-encapsulated with the Spray-drier YC 500 equipment. SEM morphologically evaluated the resulting powder and determined the amount of essential oil processed. Finally, a population of aphids (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) was dosed to determine the amount necessary to kill 50% of individuals (LD50) compared to the direct application of oil.