Microencapsulation of essential oil of molle (Schinus Molle) against the aphid Macrosiphum euphorbiae.

The essential oil of molle (Schinus molle) has proven biocidal activity, which can be enhanced by spray-drying. Therefore, an emulsion was prepared with this oil and chitosan (1:2) to be later micro-encapsulated with the Spray-drier YC 500 equipment. SEM morphologically evaluated the resulting powder and determined the amount of essential oil processed. Finally, a population of aphids (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) was dosed to determine the amount necessary to kill 50% of individuals (LD50) compared to the direct application of oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]