Optimization of Polyphenols Recovery from Schinus molle L. Peel Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)

Factorial design and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) were used to model the recovery of polyphenols from Schinus molle L. peel (SM) by solvent extraction. Experiments carried out according to a Central Composite Design (CCD) allowed evaluation of the effects of temperature, extraction time, solvent composition and solid to liquid ratio on the yield of polyphenol. Statistical analysis showed that temperature was the most influential factor. A reduced polynomial model was developed by the stepwise regression method. The model was checked by performing validation experiments both inside and outside the factorial region. A very good agreement was observed between experimental and calculated extraction yields, thus supporting the use of the model to quantitatively describe the recovery of polyphenols from SM.