Optimization of Microwave-assisted Extraction Conditions for Production of Bioactive Material from Corn Stover

Corn stover is known as a good candidate for a functional food ingredient when the main lignocellulosic material, lignin, is used as bioactive materials as form of polyphenolic compounds. The purpose of this study was to determine the microwave extraction conditions under which total phenolic compounds (TPC) and flavonoid contents of corn stover were maximized. Microwave-assisted extracts using sulfuric acid ranging from 0 to 1.0 mol with extraction time between 40 and 240 sec were conducted by using response surface methodology (RSM). Microwave power showed significant effects (p<0.05) and the concentrations of TPC and flavonoids increased with increased level of microwave power and extraction time. The optimum conditions for corn stover extraction were determined as 698.6 W, 240 sec, and 0 mol sulfuric acid, and the predicted value of TPC and flavonoid is 82.4 mg GAE/g DM and 18.1 mg/g DM, respectively. Microwave extraction was evaluated as an economic process with low energy consumption, short extraction and high extraction yield of bioactive including TPC and flavonoids compared to conventional extractions.