Biosurfactants production from plant-based saponin: Extraction and innovative applications & sustainable aspect for future commercialization

Rushita Parmar, Vaishali Varsani, Dhruvisha Mehta, Dushyant Dudhagara, Sandip Gamit, Nirali Nandaniya, Devangi Chaun, Apexa Vala, Ashish Patel and Suhas Vyas

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 2025, vol. 219, issue C

Abstract: Biosurfactants derived from plant-based saponins have garnered significant attention due to their biodegradability, non-toxicity, and multifunctionality. A thorough analysis indicates that natural saponins from plants could be an effective and eco-conscious option instead of artificial surfactants. The extensive employment of synthetic surfactants in multiple industries plays a major role in environmental decline, a problem that could be solved by switching to natural surfactants for a sustainable solution. Saponins, essential bioactive compounds obtained from various plants, are renowned for their soaplike properties. A prime example of sustainable innovation is plant-based saponins from Quillaja saponaria and Sapindus mukorossi, which offer adaptable solutions for a variety of industries while advancing both economic and environmental perspectives. This review primarily focuses on the Traditional and novel saponin-based plant sources utilized for modern extraction, quantification, and purification techniques, various properties of saponin, innovative applications, techno-economic advantages, life cycle assessment, and toxicity of green surfactants. However, a few of them are modern extraction techniques for high production yields, accuracy, efficiency, and practical applicability, as well as reduced costs for saponin-based products from an eco-friendly approach. The detailed summary underscores the extensive utilization of green surfactants in various fields such as biotechnology, environmental remediation, food production, pharmaceuticals, petroleum, cosmetics, and agriculture. These emulsifiers are highly suggested for biotechnological objectives because of their minimal harm and capacity to decompose naturally. Hence, forthcoming exploration endeavors should concentrate on recognizing different naturally occurring surfactants generated by plants. It is extremely unlikely that the demand for green surfactants in the market will overshadow that of synthetic surfactants soon, showcasing an increasing preference for eco-friendly surfactants in the years to come.

Keywords: Eco-friendly; Saponin; Green surfactants; Emulsification; Foaming; Sustainable; Techno-economics; Toxicity (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2025.115838

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