i'I'mm interested in extracting phenolic resin using a microwave (MAE) method from Gracinia sp., but there are very few reviews available. So, I asked someone who knew. Why does it give good results in the DCM part and can be used for further isolation using a non-polar Column chromatography system?
Resin extraction often requires the use of dichloromethane (also known as methylene chloride) due to its unique properties and compatibility with resinous compounds. Here's why dichloromethane is commonly used for resin extraction:
1. Solubility: Resinous compounds, such as terpenes and resins, are often non-polar or semi-polar in nature. Dichloromethane is an organic solvent with excellent solvating power for non-polar and lipophilic compounds, making it effective for extracting resins from plant materials.
2. Selectivity: Dichloromethane has selective solubility, allowing it to preferentially dissolve resinous compounds while minimizing the extraction of polar compounds like sugars, pigments, and proteins. This selectivity helps in obtaining a more concentrated resin extract.
However, it's worth noting that dichloromethane is a volatile and toxic solvent, requiring caution and proper handling. Additionally, the use of alternative solvents like methanol, ethanol, or mixtures of solvents (such as methanol/water) can also extract resinous compounds, albeit with differing efficiencies. The choice of solvent depends on the specific resinous compounds being targeted, as well as safety considerations and the extraction method being used.
Thank you very much for your answer. I will use the information and go study in more detail. Kalu Michael Kalu
Dichloromethane (also known as methylene chloride) is commonly used due to its strong solvency power, which allows for efficient extraction. While methanol is also a solvent that can dissolve certain components of the resin, it may not be as effective as dichloromethane in extracting all the desired compounds. Resin can contain various types of compounds (such as oils, resins, pigments, etc.), each requiring a different solvent or combination of solvents for effective extraction. Dichloromethane is favored in resin extraction for its ability to solubilize a wide range of compounds, including non-polar and polar substances. Additionally, it has a lower boiling point compared to methanol, making it convenient for evaporating and recovering the extracted substances after the extraction process.