DEVELOPMENT OF KARANJ OIL AND CASTOR OIL NANOEMULSIONS AND ITS ENCAPSULATION INTO BEADS FOR CONTROLLED RELEASE LARVICIDAL ACTIVITY

Abstract

Karanjin and Ricinoleic acid, found in Karanj oil and Castor oil respectively exhibited medicinal and pesticidal properties. Karanj oil and Castor oil has low aqueous solubility, high photo sensitivity which restrict its application for the control of agricultural pests. The present study highlights development of Karanj oil and Castor oil nanoemulsions and its encapsulation into Calcium alginate beads for control release application. The encapsulated beads were characterized by various physicochemical properties such as size, encapsulation efficiency, release kinetics and stability. The beads exhibited a nearly spherical shape and are nonporous in nature. FTIR spectral studies revealed the absence of chemical interactions between active ingredients and crosslinking agent. The encapsulated Karanj oil and Castor oil nanoemulsions showed the potential for controlled release of Karanjin and Ricinoleic acid. The encapsulated beads of Karanj oil and Castor oil nanoemulsions were tested for larvicidal activity and proved to be effective against variety of mosquito species. The advantages of these biopesticidal formulations appear to be an excellent alternative to conventional pesticides.