Pesticides used in agriculture can contaminate foods like fruits and vegetables, posing health risks to consumers and highlighting the need for effective residue monitoring. This study explores aqueous two-phase systems (ATPSs) comprising phosphonium or ammonium ionic liquids (ILs) combined with ammonium sulfate as an alternative pre-treatment method for extracting and concentrating the pesticides clomazone, pyraclostrobin, and deltamethrin from strawberry samples. Liquid-liquid equilibrium measurements for each ATPS were conducted, followed by extraction experiments to determine the most efficient systems for pesticide extraction.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFPolyphenols are natural compounds with enhanced antioxidant properties. They are present in relatively high concentrations in fruit/vegetable by-products. Therefore, there is a need for the development of efficient and cost-effective methods for the separation and purification of these valuable compounds.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFExtensive use of pesticides resulting in their accumulation in the environment presents a hazard for their non-target species, including humans. Hence, efficient remediation strategies are needed, and, in this sense, adsorption is seen as the most straightforward approach. We have studied activated carbon fibers (ACFs) derived from viscose fibers impregnated with diammonium hydrogen phosphate (DAHP).
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe release and accumulation of pesticides in the environment require the development of novel sustainable technologies for their removal. While adsorption is a classical approach, the design of new materials with enhanced adsorption properties could rationalize the remediation routes and decrease potential risks for their non-target organisms, including humans. More importantly, the use of adsorbents and their synthesis should be implemented in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF