*3.2. Optimization of the Extraction Parameters*

The fitting and analysis of the data obtained after performing all the experimental runs stipulated in the DoE matrix, led to an in depth understanding of the variables' influence over the microwaved extraction process. Further, the optimization module of the DoE software has been used in order to calculate the optimal combination of extraction parameters, having as target the highest extraction yield obtained by using stable parameters. The optimization has been performed separately for each type of extraction solvent, the software also being able to predict not only the optimal combination of extraction parameters, but also the extracted TPC value.

After performing the stipulated optimal runs, results of the experimentally obtained TPC were compared with the DoE predicted ones, the registered recovery percent being >96% for BBE1 and close to 100% for BBE2 and BBE3, highlighting the high prediction capacity of the model. The optimal extraction parameters, DoE predicted- and experimentally-obtained TPC values are presented in Table 3.
