Formulation and characterization of nanoemulsion biopesticide from Balanite aegyptiaca seed kernel extract

Consumers’ growing awareness and desire for food free of pesticide residues led to the incubation of this research work. The study aimed at developing a nanoemulsion formulation of Balanite aegyptiaca seed kernel extract for use as a biopesticide. A preliminary study was carried out on the solubility and miscibility of surfactant, carrier, and deionized water utilizing the low-energy spontaneous emulsification method. Information from the study was then used to plot a ternary phase diagram (TPD) showing both the isotropic zone and the anisotropic zones, from which a point with a surfactant, oil, and water ratio (20:20:60) was selected from the isotropic zone for the formulation. The developed nanoemulsion was tested for stability and thermostability, and both results revealed the system was stable. Similarly, the physiochemical properties of the developed nanoemulsion system were characterized, and the results showed that the system revealed the following properties: mean particle size of 173.2±21.6, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.403±0.038, surface tension of 32.53±0.71, viscosity of 37.33±0.67 mPas, and a pH of 4.92±0.02. The formulation appears homogeneous, clear, and transparent, which further indicates it’s a nanoemulsion formulation. Therefore, the nanoemulsion formulation of B. aegyptiaca seed kernel can serve as a safe and environmentally friendly substitute for synthetic pesticides in the management of plant diseases.