Evaluation ofLippia citriodoraessential oil nanoformulation against the lepidopteran pestPhthorimaea operculellaZeller (Gelechiidae)

A new delivery system was applied to controlP. operculellabased on interpolation ofLippia citriodoraessential oil into PVA-nanofiber using electrospinning technique. Based on GC-MS results, geranial and (-)-spathulenol were the prevailing compounds of the essential oil. Fumigant bioassay revealed that nano-formulated essential oil was more toxic thanL. citriodorapure one. The results of the durability test showed that PVA-EO nanofibers were highly durable compared to the pure essential oils: their durability was approximately 3.5 times greater. This study indicated that these novel systems could be used in IPM program for the control of stored product pests.

Automated summary

In this study, a new delivery system using electrospinning technique was developed to control P. operculella by incorporating Lippia citriodora essential oil into PVA nanofiber. The results showed that the nano-formulated essential oil was more toxic and the PVA-EO nanofibers were more durable compared to the pure essential oil. These novel systems could be used in integrated pest management programs for stored product pests.