Simultaneous Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Chlorophylls and Antioxidant Activity of Sugar Beet Leaves using Response Surface Methodology

The utilization of natural resources and the development of sustainable processes have become paramount in various industries. This research focuses on the simultaneous optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of chlorophylls and the evaluation of antioxidant activity in sugar beet leaves, aiming to enhance sustainability and maximize the utilization of chlorophyll-rich by-products. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to determine optimal extraction conditions. Initially, a comprehensive literature review was conducted to understand the importance and potential applications of chlorophylls, as well as the antioxidant activity of sugar beet leaves. The study highlights the significant role of chlorophylls as natural pigments with various health benefits, such as antioxidant and anticancer properties. The experimental work involved the extraction of chlorophylls and determination of antioxidant activity using various methods, including Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), Total Phenolic Content (TPC), Total Flavonoid Content (TFC), and Total Chlorophyll (TC) assays. Ultrasound- assisted extraction was chosen for its advantages, such as shorter extraction times and improved yields compared to conventional methods. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was applied to design and optimize the extraction process. The extraction parameters, including ultrasound power, extraction time, and solvent-to-sample ratio, were optimized using a central composite design. The obtained data were analyzed using statistical software to generate response surface plots and contour plots. This enabled the determination of optimal extraction conditions that maximize chlorophyll content and antioxidant activity. The results revealed significant improvements in chlorophyll extraction efficiency and the antioxidant activity of sugar beet leaves. The optimized conditions obtained through RSM demonstrated enhanced extraction yields, higher antioxidant activity, and improved sustainability, contributing to efficient by-product utilization. Moreover, the study showed that the optimized conditions were effective for sustainable utilization of the by-products, resulting in not only a higher extraction yield and antioxidant activity but also an overall improvement in the system. Overall, this research successfully demonstrates the simultaneous optimization of ultrasound- assisted chlorophyll extraction and the evaluation of antioxidant activity in sugar beet leaves using the Response Surface Methodology. The findings emphasize the potential of chlorophyll-rich by- products in various applications, including the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries, as well as their contribution to sustainable practices. This study provides valuable insights into chlorophyll extraction and highlights their advantageous properties, contributing to green and sustainable technologies.