Authors : Prashant Kumar; Sachin; Manu Yadav; Aditya Modi; Deepika Rathi

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 5 - May

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/4ufvmya3

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/bd52v5cp

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26May538

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : The increasing concerns regarding the toxicity and environmental impact of synthetic mosquito repellents have encouraged the development of safer, plant-based alternatives. Citronella oil is a widely recognized natural repellent with effective mosquito deterrent properties; however, its high volatility limits its duration of action. This research aims to develop and assess alginate beads containing citronella oil as an environmentally friendly system with controlled release properties. Sodium alginate, a biodegradable and non-toxic polymer, was utilized to encapsulate citronella oil using the ionic gelation technique, enhancing its stability and prolonging its release. The formulated beads were evaluated for various physical and chemical characteristics including size, structure, swelling capacity, and efficiency of encapsulation, along with in-vitro release and mosquito repellent activity. The results demonstrated sustained release of citronella oil, improved repellent efficacy, and extended protection time compared to conventional formulations. Overall, this approach offers a promising, environmentally friendly alternative for mosquito control by combining natural active ingredients with biodegradable polymer-based delivery systems.

Keywords : Citronella, Mosquito Repellent, Sodium Alginate, Eco-Friendly Formulation, Alginate Beads.

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