Extraction of plant wax from Colocasia esculenta using polar and non-polar solvents: A sustainable approach

This research presents a comprehensive study on the extraction and characterization of natural wax from agro-waste such as Colocasia esculenta (L.), commonly known as taro. Taro is a widely cultivated plant known for its starchy corms and edible leaves. However, its wax, a lesser-explored aspect, holds significant potential for various industrial applications. The extraction process was done in the presence of one polar and two non-polar solvents by using a Soxhlet apparatus whose yield depends on the polarity of the solvent, temperature, and number of cycles. The extracted yield from chloroform and hexane (non-polar solvents) is 11.34% and 15.04% respectively while it is only 0.28% from ethanol (polar solvent). Characterization of the extract has been carried out using analytical techniques, which include Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). These analyses provided insights into the chemical composition and morphology of taro wax. The results indicate that taro wax mainly possesses a complex composition of alkanes, fatty acids, alcohols, and esters with potential applications in cosmetics, water-proofing, and coatings. Furthermore, the study highlights the sustainable aspect of utilizing taro wax as a renewable and biodegradable alternative to synthetic waxes. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of the extraction and characterization of natural wax from Colocasia esculenta, opening avenues for further exploration and utilization of this underutilized natural resource.