Parameters affecting the migration of molluscicidal saponin from styrene butadiene rubber formulations containing Phytolacca dioica L.

Discs of SBR containing Phytolacca dioica L. plant can be used to release s aponin of the plant which has an efficient toxic effect on Bimpholaria alex andrina snails, the intermediate hosts of Schistosomiasis. Such a snail con trol system is used to protect the human beings from schistosomiasis. Schis tosomiasis is a major health problem of increasing severity, especially in the developing countries. High abrasion furnace black (HAF) and hydrated si lica (HISIL) are some inert fillers which improve the properties of rubber, and they play an important role in controlling the porosity of controlled release styrene butadiene rubber formulations containing Phytolacca dioica L. plant. Also, the leaching rate of saponin depends on the concentration o f filler, type of water, temperature of the environment as well as surface to volume ratio of the discs. The scanning electron micrographs illustrate the cracks and pore structure which are formed after release of saponin. Th e leaching rate of saponin from SBR/HAF filled formulation is greater than the leaching rate from SBR/HISIL filled formulation.