Application of Polynomial Mathematical Models for the Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Plant Sources

Abstract

This article focuses on the mathematical modelling of the extraction process of bioactive compounds from grape marc and berries (Aronia, rosehip, rowan, and hawthorn). The composition of the extraction medium (the concentration of the ethyl alcohol) served as a factor of influence. Furthermore, 8 experimental measured parameters were used as variables. The experimental results were processed using Hermite polynomials. In order to adapt the degree of the polynomial, the following conditions were imposed: high precision of the mathematical model by appealing to models on interval; obtaining a nominal model and two uncertain models (upper and lower); deduction of two predictive models, one superior and one inferior. It was found that the mathematical models based on Hermite polynomials do not provide explicit analytical expressions, although they allow the establishment of parameter values for any concentration of the extraction medium. In some cases, only high-grade polynomial models ensure the modelling error below 2%. Uncertain models (upper and lower 95%) include all experimental data. Predictive mathematical models (upper and lower) were established for a high prediction. The analytical expressions of the mathematical models on intervals are non-gaps, the coefficients having non-zero values. Dependencies between the measured parameters and the composition of the extraction solvent were analyzed, the results being presented through the calculation of a surface, with all the experimental values and their average values. Thus, it was found that polynomial mathematical models provide complete information for modelling the extraction processes of bioactive compounds of plant origin.