Qualitative and Quantitative Chemical Diversity Study of Essential Oils from Different Rose Crosses (Rosa sp.) (Phase 2)

This project focuses on the exhaustive characterization of essential oils derived from different hybrids of Ecuadorian roses, a high-value industry globally recognized for its quality. The main objective is to quantify and qualify the variations in the chemical composition of these oils across different cultivated varieties. The proposed methodology includes obtaining high-quality plant material, followed by essential oil extraction using two comparative techniques: Clevenger-assisted hydrodistillation and adapted microwave-assisted extraction. Subsequently, the obtained oils will undergo rigorous analysis using Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify and quantify their volatile components. Identification will be complemented by calculating retention indices and comparing them with spectral databases (NIST). Finally, statistical analysis (ANOVA) using SYSTAT-12 software will be applied to determine the statistical significance of the differences found between treatments (P < 0.05). This study will provide crucial information for the improvement and standardization of Ecuadorian rose essential oil quality.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To evaluate the quantitative and qualitative differences present in the essential oils extracted from various crosses of the Rosa sp. species, utilizing dual extraction methods and advanced chromatographic analysis.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Chemo-biodiversity