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Hunter SJ, György C. Sub-micron colloidosomes with tuneable cargo release prepared using epoxy-functional diblock copolymer nanoparticles. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 675:999-1010. [PMID: 39003819 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2024.07.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS Pickering emulsions stabilized using epoxy-functional block copolymer nanoparticles should enable the formation of sub-micron colloidosomes that are stable with respect to Ostwald ripening and allow tuneable small-molecule cargo release. EXPERIMENTS Epoxy-functional diblock copolymer nanoparticles of 24 ± 4 nm were prepared via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT)-mediated dispersion polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) in n-dodecane. Sub-micron water-in-n-dodecane Pickering emulsions were prepared by high-pressure microfluidization. The epoxy groups were then ring-opened using 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) to prepare cross-linked colloidosomes. The colloidosomes survived removal of the aqueous phase using excess solvent. The silica shell thickness could be adjusted from 11 to 23 nm by varying the APTES/GlyMA molar ratio. The long-term stability of the colloidosomes was compared to precursor Pickering emulsions. Finally, the permeability of the colloidosomes was examined by encapsulation and release of a small molecule. FINDINGS The Pickering emulsion droplet diameter was reduced from 700 to 200 nm by increasing the salt concentration within the aqueous phase. In the absence of salt, emulsion droplets were unstable due to Ostwald ripening. However, emulsions prepared with 0.5 M NaCl are stable for at least one month. The cross-linked colloidosomes demonstrated much more stable than the precursor sub-micron emulsions prepared without salt. The precursor nanoemulsions exhibited complete release (>99 %) of an encapsulated dye, while higher APTES/GlyMA ratios resulted in much lower dye release, yielding nearly impermeable silica capsules that retained around 95 % of the dye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saul J Hunter
- Joseph Banks Laboratories, School of Chemistry, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK.
| | - Csilla György
- Dainton Building, Department of Chemistry, Brook Hill, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S3 7HF, UK
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Serkhacheva NS, Prokopov NI, Lysenko EA, Kozhunova EY, Chernikova EV. Modern Trends in Polymerization-Induced Self-Assembly. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1408. [PMID: 38794601 PMCID: PMC11125046 DOI: 10.3390/polym16101408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA) is a powerful and versatile technique for producing colloidal dispersions of block copolymer particles with desired morphologies. Currently, PISA can be carried out in various media, over a wide range of temperatures, and using different mechanisms. This method enables the production of biodegradable objects and particles with various functionalities and stimuli sensitivity. Consequently, PISA offers a broad spectrum of potential commercial applications. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current state of rational synthesis of block copolymer particles with diverse morphologies using various PISA techniques and mechanisms. The discussion begins with an examination of the main thermodynamic, kinetic, and structural aspects of block copolymer micellization, followed by an exploration of the key principles of PISA in the formation of gradient and block copolymers. The review also delves into the main mechanisms of PISA implementation and the principles governing particle morphology. Finally, the potential future developments in PISA are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia S. Serkhacheva
- Lomonosov Institute of Fine Chemical Technologies, MIREA—Russian Technological University, pr. Vernadskogo, 86, 119571 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Nickolay I. Prokopov
- Lomonosov Institute of Fine Chemical Technologies, MIREA—Russian Technological University, pr. Vernadskogo, 86, 119571 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Evgenii A. Lysenko
- Faculty of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, bld. 3, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (E.A.L.); (E.Y.K.)
| | - Elena Yu. Kozhunova
- Faculty of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, bld. 3, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (E.A.L.); (E.Y.K.)
- Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, bld. 2, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena V. Chernikova
- Faculty of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, bld. 3, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (E.A.L.); (E.Y.K.)
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Tangyen N, Natongchai W, D’Elia V. Catalytic Strategies for the Cycloaddition of CO 2 to Epoxides in Aqueous Media to Enhance the Activity and Recyclability of Molecular Organocatalysts. Molecules 2024; 29:2307. [PMID: 38792168 PMCID: PMC11124216 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29102307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The cycloaddition of CO2 to epoxides to afford versatile and useful cyclic carbonate compounds is a highly investigated method for the nonreductive upcycling of CO2. One of the main focuses of the current research in this area is the discovery of readily available, sustainable, and inexpensive catalysts, and of catalytic methodologies that allow their seamless solvent-free recycling. Water, often regarded as an undesirable pollutant in the cycloaddition process, is progressively emerging as a helpful reaction component. On the one hand, it serves as an inexpensive hydrogen bond donor (HBD) to enhance the performance of ionic compounds; on the other hand, aqueous media allow the development of diverse catalytic protocols that can boost catalytic performance or ease the recycling of molecular catalysts. An overview of the advances in the use of aqueous and biphasic aqueous systems for the cycloaddition of CO2 to epoxides is provided in this work along with recommendations for possible future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Valerio D’Elia
- VISTEC Advanced Laboratory for Environment-Related Inorganic and Organic Syntheses, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Molecular Science and Engineering, Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (VISTEC), Rayong 21210, Wangchan, Thailand; (N.T.); (W.N.)
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Hunter SJ, Chohan P, Varlas S, Armes SP. Effect of Temperature, Oil Type, and Copolymer Concentration on the Long-Term Stability of Oil-in-Water Pickering Nanoemulsions Prepared Using Diblock Copolymer Nanoparticles. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024. [PMID: 38316052 PMCID: PMC10883058 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c03423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
A poly(glycerol monomethacrylate) (PGMA) precursor was chain-extended with 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl methacrylate (TFEMA) via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) aqueous emulsion polymerization. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies confirmed the formation of well-defined PGMA52-PTFEMA50 spherical nanoparticles, while dynamic light scattering (DLS) studies indicated a z-average diameter of 26 ± 6 nm. These sterically stabilized diblock copolymer nanoparticles were used as emulsifiers to prepare oil-in-water Pickering nanoemulsions: either n-dodecane or squalane was added to an aqueous dispersion of nanoparticles, followed by high-shear homogenization and high-pressure microfluidization. The Pickering nature of such nanoemulsion droplets was confirmed via cryo-transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM). The long-term stability of such Pickering nanoemulsions was evaluated by analytical centrifugation over a four-week period. The n-dodecane droplets grew in size significantly faster than squalane droplets: this is attributed to the higher aqueous solubility of the former oil, which promotes Ostwald ripening. The effect of adding various amounts of squalane to the n-dodecane droplet phase prior to emulsification was also explored. The addition of up to 40% (v/v) squalane led to more stable nanoemulsions, as judged by analytical centrifugation. The nanoparticle adsorption efficiency at the n-dodecane-water interface was assessed by gel permeation chromatography when using nanoparticle concentrations of 4.0, 7.0, or 10% w/w. Increasing the nanoparticle concentration not only produced smaller droplets but also reduced the adsorption efficiency, as confirmed by TEM studies. Furthermore, the effect of varying the nanoparticle concentration (2.5, 5.0, or 10% w/w) on the long-term stability of n-dodecane-in-water Pickering nanoemulsions was explored over a four-week period. Nanoemulsions prepared at higher nanoparticle concentrations were more unstable and exhibited a faster rate of Ostwald ripening. The nanoparticle adsorption efficiency was monitored for an aging nanoemulsion prepared at a copolymer concentration of 2.5% w/w. As the droplets ripened over time, the adsorption efficiency remained constant (∼97%). This suggests that nanoparticles desorbed from the shrinking smaller droplets and then readsorbed onto larger droplets over time. Finally, the effect of temperature on the stability of Pickering nanoemulsions was examined. Storing these Pickering nanoemulsions at elevated temperatures led to faster rates of Ostwald ripening, as expected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saul J Hunter
- School of Chemistry, Joseph Banks Laboratories, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 7TS, U.K
| | - Priyanka Chohan
- Department of Chemistry, University of Sheffield, Dainton Building, Brook Hill, Sheffield S3 7HF, South Yorkshire, U.K
| | - Spyridon Varlas
- Department of Chemistry, University of Sheffield, Dainton Building, Brook Hill, Sheffield S3 7HF, South Yorkshire, U.K
| | - Steven P Armes
- Department of Chemistry, University of Sheffield, Dainton Building, Brook Hill, Sheffield S3 7HF, South Yorkshire, U.K
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de Araujo LLGC, Dos S Cescon L, Da Cruz GF, Nascimento RSV. Influence of the cationic degree and molar mass of modified starches on their physicochemical properties and capability to enhance the oil recovery process. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 323:121388. [PMID: 37940282 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Polysaccharides and their derivatives are used as additives in numerous petroleum industrial processes, especially in enhanced oil recovery (EOR). There exists however, a lack of studies concerning how their physicochemical properties affect the oil recovery process. This work presents an investigation of a series of 2-hydroxy-3-(trimethylammonium)propyl starches (HTPS) with different molar masses and cationic degrees that are potentially useful for EOR. It was investigated surface/interfacial tensions, rheological profile, emulsion index and wettability alteration. The results provide experimental evidence that the HTPS intrinsic properties affect the measured properties. The HTPS solution/oil interfacial tension (IFT) ranged from a low value of 19.0 to a high value of 34.0 mN/m and correlates positively with the molar mass of the HTPS. In contrast, the rheological behavior displays correlations with the molar mass and the degree of cationization. Furthermore, the 1 % HTPS solutions presented around 10 % of viscosity increase in comparison to brines typically used in waterflooding. The derivative with a higher molar mass and intermediate degree of cationization (HTPS 2) was more effective in changing the wetting condition of an aged limestone with a wettability alteration index (WAI) of 52 % while the commercial surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) presented a WAI of 32.6 %.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine L G C de Araujo
- Instituto de Química - Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-909, Brazil; Laboratório de Engenharia e Exploração de Petróleo - Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Imboassica, Macaé, RJ 27910-970, Brazil.
| | - Leonardo Dos S Cescon
- Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio de Janeiro - Centro, Nilópolis, RJ 26530-060, Brazil.
| | - Georgiana F Da Cruz
- Laboratório de Engenharia e Exploração de Petróleo - Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Imboassica, Macaé, RJ 27910-970, Brazil.
| | - Regina S V Nascimento
- Instituto de Química - Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 21941-909, Brazil
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Saber S, Zargartalebi M, Kazemi A, Sinton D. Pickering phase change slurries. J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 651:1028-1042. [PMID: 37597365 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.07.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS Phase change slurries (PCS) have emerged as a promising class of oil-in-water emulsions for energy applications, but stability remains an issue. Pickering phase change slurries (PPCS) stabilized solely by nanoparticles could offer enhanced stability. We hypothesize that stability in PPCS can be achieved by tuning environmental variables of salinity and temperature. EXPERIMENTS A paraffin-based PPCS stabilized using fumed silica nanoparticles was developed and assessed under varying NaCl concentrations (up to 150 mM) and temperatures (up to 70 °C). Extended-DLVO modeling, confocal, and cryogenic electron microscopy analyzed the silica-paraffin interactions. Rheological experiments examined the impact of effective volume fraction, thermal expansion, and salinity on the viscosity and shear stability of PPCS. The stability of the resulting formulation was assessed under high pressure and temperature conditions. FINDINGS Increased salinity did not change the packing density of the silica at the oil-water interface (82% ± 6%) but did increase the adsorbed layer thickness and network formation, enhancing the formulation's resistance to shear-induced instability. A critical volume fraction of 0.51 ± 0.01 was identified, beyond which viscosity increased significantly. The resulting formulations remained stable under high pressures and temperatures, regardless of salinity. These findings offer insights into the variables affecting PPCS properties, assisting in designing stable PPCS formulations for diverse applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepehr Saber
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Mohammad Zargartalebi
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Amin Kazemi
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - David Sinton
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G8, Canada.
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Hunter SJ, Abu Elella MH, Johnson EC, Taramova L, Brotherton EE, Armes SP, Khutoryanskiy VV, Smallridge MJ. Mucoadhesive pickering nanoemulsions via dynamic covalent chemistry. J Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 651:334-345. [PMID: 37544222 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.07.162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS Submicron oil droplets stabilized using aldehyde-functionalized nanoparticles should adhere to the primary amine groups present at the surface of sheep nasal mucosal tissue via Schiff base chemistry. EXPERIMENTS Well-defined sterically-stabilized diblock copolymer nanoparticles of 20 nm diameter were prepared in the form of concentrated aqueous dispersions via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) aqueous emulsion polymerization of 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl methacrylate (TFEMA) using a water-soluble methacrylic precursor bearing cis-diol groups. Some of these hydroxyl-functional nanoparticles were then selectively oxidized using an aqueous solution of sodium periodate to form a second batch of nanoparticles bearing pendent aldehyde groups within the steric stabilizer chains. Subjecting either hydroxyl- or aldehyde-functional nanoparticles to high-shear homogenization with a model oil (squalane) produced oil-in-water Pickering macroemulsions of 20-30 µm diameter. High-pressure microfluidization of such macroemulsions led to formation of the corresponding Pickering nanoemulsions with a mean droplet diameter of around 200 nm. Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) experiments were used to examine adsorption of both nanoparticles and oil droplets onto a model planar substrate bearing primary amine groups, while a fluorescence microscopy-based mucoadhesion assay was developed to assess adsorption of the oil droplets onto sheep nasal mucosal tissue. FINDINGS Squalane droplets coated with aldehyde-functional nanoparticles adhered significantly more strongly to sheep nasal mucosal tissue than those coated with the corresponding hydroxyl-functional nanoparticles. This difference was attributed to the formation of surface imine bonds via Schiff base chemistry and was also observed for the two types of nanoparticles alone in QCM studies. Preliminary biocompatibility studies using planaria indicated only mild toxicity for these new mucoadhesive Pickering nanoemulsions, suggesting potential applications for the localized delivery of hydrophobic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saul J Hunter
- Dainton Building, Department of Chemistry, University of Sheffield, Brook Hill, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S3 7HF, UK
| | - Mahmoud H Abu Elella
- Reading School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading RG6 6AD, UK; Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Edwin C Johnson
- Dainton Building, Department of Chemistry, University of Sheffield, Brook Hill, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S3 7HF, UK
| | - Laura Taramova
- Reading School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading RG6 6AD, UK
| | - Emma E Brotherton
- Dainton Building, Department of Chemistry, University of Sheffield, Brook Hill, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S3 7HF, UK
| | - Steven P Armes
- Dainton Building, Department of Chemistry, University of Sheffield, Brook Hill, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S3 7HF, UK.
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György C, Armes SP. Recent Advances in Polymerization-Induced Self-Assembly (PISA) Syntheses in Non-Polar Media. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202308372. [PMID: 37409380 PMCID: PMC10952376 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202308372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
It is well-known that polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA) is a powerful and highly versatile technique for the rational synthesis of colloidal dispersions of diblock copolymer nanoparticles, including spheres, worms or vesicles. PISA can be conducted in water, polar solvents or non-polar media. In principle, the latter formulations offer a wide range of potential commercial applications. However, there has been just one review focused on PISA syntheses in non-polar media and this prior article was published in 2016. The purpose of the current review article is to summarize the various advances that have been reported since then. In particular, PISA syntheses conducted using reversible addition-fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) polymerization in various n-alkanes, poly(α-olefins), mineral oil, low-viscosity silicone oils or supercritical CO2 are discussed in detail. Selected formulations exhibit thermally induced worm-to-sphere or vesicle-to-worm morphological transitions and the rheological properties of various examples of worm gels in non-polar media are summarized. Finally, visible absorption spectroscopy and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) enable in situ monitoring of nanoparticle formation, while small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) can be used to examine micelle fusion/fission and chain exchange mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csilla György
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of SheffieldDainton BuildingSheffieldSouth YorkshireS3 7HFUK
| | - Steven P. Armes
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of SheffieldDainton BuildingSheffieldSouth YorkshireS3 7HFUK
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9
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Merdy P, Delpy F, Bonneau A, Villain S, Iordachescu L, Vollertsen J, Lucas Y. Nanoplastic production procedure for scientific purposes: PP, PVC, PE-LD, PE-HD, and PS. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18387. [PMID: 37520997 PMCID: PMC10382295 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies on the environmental impact of nanoplastics face challenges in plastic analysis and a scarcity of nanoplastic materials necessary for the development of analytical techniques and experiments on biota impact. Here we provide detailed procedures for obtaining nanoparticles suspended in water for the most commonly used polymers: Polypropylene (PP), Polyvinylchloride (PVC), Low- and High-Density Polyethylene (PE-LD, PE-HD), and Polystyrene (PS). We dissolved larger size material to reprecipitate nanoparticles. For all plastic types, we obtained nanoparticles with a size between 50 and 300 nm, and a mainly spherical morphology. We verified that no irreversible agglomeration or coalescence of the particles occurred after 5 days of storage. The concentrations obtained in the final carrier solution were of the order of 109 particles mL-1. To prevent the persistence of reagents in the final carrier solution, a filtration step was implemented at the end of the process. The method proved unsuitable for Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET).
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Merdy
- Université de Toulon, Aix Marseille University, CNRS, IM2NP, 83041, Toulon, France
| | - Floriane Delpy
- Université de Toulon, Aix Marseille University, CNRS, IM2NP, 83041, Toulon, France
| | - Adrien Bonneau
- Université de Toulon, Aix Marseille University, CNRS, IM2NP, 83041, Toulon, France
| | - Sylvie Villain
- Université de Toulon, Aix Marseille University, CNRS, IM2NP, 83041, Toulon, France
| | - Lucian Iordachescu
- Aalborg University, Department of the Built Environment, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9220, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Jes Vollertsen
- Aalborg University, Department of the Built Environment, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9220, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Yves Lucas
- Université de Toulon, Aix Marseille University, CNRS, IM2NP, 83041, Toulon, France
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Hunter SJ, Armes SP. Sterically Stabilized Diblock Copolymer Nanoparticles Enable Efficient Preparation of Non-Aqueous Pickering Nanoemulsions. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2023; 39:7361-7370. [PMID: 37186666 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c00464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
We report the first example of a non-aqueous Pickering nanoemulsion, which comprises glycerol droplets dispersed in mineral oil. The droplet phase is stabilized by hydrophobic sterically stabilized poly(lauryl methacrylate)-poly(benzyl methacrylate) nanoparticles which are prepared directly in mineral oil using polymerization-induced self-assembly. First, a glycerol-in-mineral oil Pickering macroemulsion with a mean droplet diameter of 2.1 ± 0.9 μm is prepared via high-shear homogenization using excess nanoparticles as an emulsifier. Then, this precursor macroemulsion is subjected to high-pressure microfluidization (a single pass at an applied pressure of 20,000 psi) to produce glycerol droplets of approximately 200-250 nm diameter. Transmission electron microscopy studies indicate preservation of the distinctive superstructure produced by nanoparticle adsorption at the glycerol/mineral oil interface, thus confirming the Pickering nature of the nanoemulsion. Glycerol is sparingly soluble in mineral oil, thus such nanoemulsions are rather susceptible to destabilization via Ostwald ripening. Indeed, substantial droplet growth occurs within 24 h at 20 °C, as judged by dynamic light scattering. However, this problem can be suppressed by dissolving a non-volatile solute (sodium iodide) in glycerol prior to formation of the nanoemulsion. This reduces diffusional loss of glycerol molecules from the droplets, with analytical centrifugation studies indicating much better long-term stability for such Pickering nanoemulsions (up to 21 weeks). Finally, the addition of just 5% water to the glycerol phase prior to emulsification enables the refractive index of the droplet phase to be matched to that of the continuous phase, leading to relatively transparent nanoemulsions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saul J Hunter
- Department of Chemistry, Brook Hill, University of Sheffield, Dainton Building, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S3 7HF, U.K
| | - Steven P Armes
- Department of Chemistry, Brook Hill, University of Sheffield, Dainton Building, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S3 7HF, U.K
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Biopolymer- and Lipid-Based Carriers for the Delivery of Plant-Based Ingredients. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030927. [PMID: 36986788 PMCID: PMC10051097 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural ingredients are gaining increasing attention from manufacturers following consumers’ concerns about the excessive use of synthetic ingredients. However, the use of natural extracts or molecules to achieve desirable qualities throughout the shelf life of foodstuff and, upon consumption, in the relevant biological environment is severely limited by their poor performance, especially with respect to solubility, stability against environmental conditions during product manufacturing, storage, and bioavailability upon consumption. Nanoencapsulation can be seen as an attractive approach with which to overcome these challenges. Among the different nanoencapsulation systems, lipids and biopolymer-based nanocarriers have emerged as the most effective ones because of their intrinsic low toxicity following their formulation with biocompatible and biodegradable materials. The present review aims to provide a survey of the recent advances in nanoscale carriers, formulated with biopolymers or lipids, for the encapsulation of natural compounds and plant extracts.
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Shafiei M, Kazemzadeh Y, Martyushev DA, Dai Z, Riazi M. Effect of chemicals on the phase and viscosity behavior of water in oil emulsions. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4100. [PMID: 36907931 PMCID: PMC10008830 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31379-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to population growth, the need for energy, especially fossil fuels, is increased every year. Since the costs of exploring new reservoirs and drilling new wells are very high, most reservoirs have passed their first and second periods of life, and it is necessary to use EOR methods. Water-based enhanced oil recovery (EOR) methods are one of the popular methods in this field. In this method, due to the possibility of emulsion formation is high, and by creating a stable emulsion, viscosity and mobility improved. In this study, the parameters affecting the stability and viscosity of the emulsion have been investigated step by step. In the first step, 50% (v/v) of water has been selected as the best water cut. The type of salt and its best concentration was evaluated in the second step by measuring the average droplets size. The third step investigated the effect of SiO2 nanoparticles and surfactant (span80) on emulsion stability and viscosity. According to the results, the best amount of water cut was 50% due to the maximum viscosity. In salts the yield was as follows: MgCl2 > CaCl2 > MgSO4 > Na2SO4 > NaCl. The best yield was related to MgCl2 at a concentration of 10,000 ppm. Finally, it was shown that the synergy of nanoparticles and surfactants resulted in higher stability and viscosity than in the case where each was used alone. It should be noted that the optimal concentration of nanoparticles is equal to 0.1% (w/w), and the optimal concentration of surfactant is equal to 200 ppm. In general, a stable state was obtained in 50% water-cut with MgCl2 salt at a concentration of 10,000 ppm and in the presence of SiO2 nanoparticles at a concentration of 0.1% and span 80 surfactants at a concentration of 200 ppm. The results obtained from this study provide important insights for optimal selection of the water-based EOR operation parameters. Viscosity showed a similar trend with stability and droplet size. As the average particle size decreased (or stability increased), the emulsion viscosity increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Shafiei
- Enhanced Oil Recovery Research Center, School of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Yousef Kazemzadeh
- Enhanced Oil Recovery Research Center, School of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.
- Department of Petroleum Engineering, Faculty of Petroleum, Gas, and Petrochemical Engineering, Persian Gulf University, Bushehr, Iran.
| | - Dmitriy A Martyushev
- Department of Oil and Gas Technologies, Perm National Research Polytechnic University, Perm, 614990, Russia
| | - Zhenxue Dai
- College of Construction Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Masoud Riazi
- Enhanced Oil Recovery Research Center, School of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.
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Shafiei M, Kazemzadeh Y, Shirazy GM, Riazi M. Evaluating the role of salts on emulsion properties during water-based enhanced oil recovery: Ion type, concentration, and water content. J Mol Liq 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2022.120028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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14
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Hunter SJ, Armes SP. Long-Term Stability of Pickering Nanoemulsions Prepared Using Diblock Copolymer Nanoparticles: Effect of Nanoparticle Core Crosslinking, Oil Type, and the Role Played by Excess Copolymers. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:8021-8029. [PMID: 35737742 PMCID: PMC9261185 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c00821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
A poly(N,N'-dimethylacrylamide) (PDMAC) precursor is chain-extended via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) aqueous dispersion polymerization of diacetone acrylamide (PDAAM) to produce PDMAC77-PDAAM40 spherical nanoparticles. Post-polymerization core-crosslinking of such nanoparticles was performed at 20 °C, and the resulting covalently stabilized nanoparticles survive exposure to methanol. The linear and core-crosslinked nanoparticles were subjected to high-shear homogenization in turn in the presence of n-dodecane to form macroemulsions. Subsequent processing of these macroemulsions via high-pressure microfluidization produced nanoemulsions. When using the core crosslinked nanoparticles, the droplet diameter was strongly dependent on the copolymer concentration. This indicates that such nanoparticles remain intact under the processing conditions, leading to formation of genuine Pickering nanoemulsions with a z-average diameter of 244 ± 60 nm. In contrast, the linear nanoparticles undergo disassembly to afford molecularly dissolved diblock copolymer chains, which stabilize oil droplets of 170 ± 59 nm diameter. The long-term stability of these two types of n-dodecane-in-water nanoemulsions with respect to Ostwald ripening was examined using analytical centrifugation. When prepared at the same copolymer concentration, Pickering nanoemulsions stabilized by core-crosslinked nanoparticles proved to be significantly more stable than the nanoemulsion stabilized by the amphiphilic PDMAC77-PDAAM40 chains. Moreover, higher copolymer concentrations led to a significantly faster rate of droplet growth. This is attributed to excess copolymer facilitating the diffusion of n-dodecane through the aqueous phase. Finally, analytical centrifugation is used to assess the long-term stability of the analogous squalane-in-water nanoemulsions. These systems are much more stable than the corresponding n-dodecane-in-water nanoemulsions, regardless of whether the copolymer is adsorbed as sterically stabilized nanoparticles or surface-active chains.
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Vratsanos MA, Gianneschi NC. Direct Observation of Emulsion Morphology, Dynamics, and Demulsification. ACS NANO 2022; 16:7783-7793. [PMID: 35302741 PMCID: PMC9836053 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c00199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Herein, we present the direct observation and quantification of a water-in-oil (w/o) emulsion, its destabilization, and the effect of additives on such processes at the nanoscale. This is achieved via liquid phase transmission electron microscopy (LPTEM), wherein a small volume of emulsion is encapsulated against vacuum in its liquid state to allow observation of its initial morphology and its evolution over time at excellent spatial and temporal resolution. Emulsions of this class are useful for delivering payloads of materials insoluble in their delivery medium and are currently widely used across food science, pharmaceuticals, and environmental applications. However, their utility is inherently limited by their thermodynamic tendency to demulsify, eventually leading to bulk phase separation. This occurs via several degradation mechanisms, operating at times collectively, and which are difficult to differentiate via traditional ensemble methods (e.g., light scattering), obscuring mechanistic nuances. LPTEM as a characterization technique has the potential to augment our understanding of emulsion behavior and improve performance and formulations. In this work, we also emphasize the importance of the included videographic Supporting Information data in demonstrating the behavior of the studied materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Vratsanos
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Nathan C Gianneschi
- Department of Materials Science & Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- International Institute for Nanotechnology, Simpson Querrey Institute, Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
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Zhang M, Ren M, Zhang Y, Hou Z, Liu S, Zhang L, Xu J, Zhu J. Shaping Block Copolymer Microparticles by Positively Charged Polymeric Nanoparticles. Macromol Rapid Commun 2022; 43:e2200143. [PMID: 35396780 DOI: 10.1002/marc.202200143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Shape-transforming block copolymer (BCP) microparticles have attracted extensive attention due to their promising applications in nanotechnology, biomedicines, interfacial science, and other fields. As their performance is highly associated to their shape and structure, it is highly important to realize the precise control of particle shape. In this report, we propose a method to regulate the shape and structure of polystyrene-b-polydimethoxysiloxane (PS-b-PDMS) microparticles by using positively charged core-crosslinked nanoparticles (CNPs) as a co-surfactant, combining with cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). The electrostatic repulsive interactions between CNPs and CTAB dominate the shape of PS-b-PDMS particles. Upon introducing NaCl, the electrostatic repulsion is reduced, resulting in the reshape of PS-b-PDMS particles from striped Janus ellipsoids to onion-like microspheres at a critical concentration of NaCl (cNaCl ). Interestingly, we find that the critical cNaCl first increased then reached a plateau, as the increase in the crosslinking degree of the CNPs. Our work provides a simple strategy to tailor the morphology of BCPs by manipulating the electrostatic interaction. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengmeng Zhang
- Key Lab of Materials Chemistry for Energy Conversion & Storage (HUST) of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Min Ren
- Key Lab of Materials Chemistry for Energy Conversion & Storage (HUST) of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Yuping Zhang
- Key Lab of Materials Chemistry for Energy Conversion & Storage (HUST) of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Zaiyan Hou
- Key Lab of Materials Chemistry for Energy Conversion & Storage (HUST) of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Simeng Liu
- Key Lab of Materials Chemistry for Energy Conversion & Storage (HUST) of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Lianbin Zhang
- Key Lab of Materials Chemistry for Energy Conversion & Storage (HUST) of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Jiangping Xu
- Key Lab of Materials Chemistry for Energy Conversion & Storage (HUST) of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Jintao Zhu
- Key Lab of Materials Chemistry for Energy Conversion & Storage (HUST) of Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
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Chen Z, Wang X, Shi L, Liu Q, Gao Y, Chen W, Yang J, Yuan X, Feng J. Fabrication and Characterization of Prochloraz Nanoemulsion against Penicillium citrinum for the Postharvest Storage of Navel Oranges. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2021; 37:13757-13766. [PMID: 34748347 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.1c02528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Nanoemulsions have become extremely popular water-insoluble pesticide delivery systems in recent years. In this study, prochloraz nanoemulsions were obtained by selecting the mixing ratio of surfactants (6:1, 3:1, 2:1, 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, and 1:6), surfactant concentration, and shearing time. The optimal formula was 10 wt % prochloraz, 6 wt % surfactant (2 wt % CO-100 + 4 wt % CO-360) dissolved in 6 wt % hydrocarbon solvent (S-100A), and deionized water replenished to 100 wt %. This formula meets the quality index standards of the Food and Agriculture Organization. Compared with oil-in-water emulsion (EW), the prochloraz nanoemulsion exhibited higher antifungal activity against Penicillium citrinum in vitro (lower LC50 of 1.17 mg L-1) and in vivo (fewer lesions). In addition, the L02 cells treated with the nanoemulsion had a higher survival rate and lower apoptosis rate at the same concentration. Results showed that the toxicity of the prochloraz nanoemulsion on L02 cells was lower than that of EW. The findings provide an important method for developing an efficient, safe, and environment-friendly nanoemulsion for postharvest fruit storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyang Chen
- School of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Xinlian Wang
- National Navel Orange Engineering Research Center, Gannan Normal University, Ganzhou 341000, China
| | - Liyin Shi
- School of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Wang Chen
- School of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Jinghan Yang
- School of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Xiaoyong Yuan
- National Navel Orange Engineering Research Center, Gannan Normal University, Ganzhou 341000, China
| | - Jianguo Feng
- School of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
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Nandy M, Lahiri BB, Philip J. Inter-droplet force between magnetically polarizable Pickering oil-in-water nanoemulsions stabilized with γ-Al 2O 3 nanoparticles: Role of electrostatic and electric dipolar interactions. J Colloid Interface Sci 2021; 607:1671-1686. [PMID: 34592554 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2021.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS The presence of nanoparticles at oil-water interface influences the interaction forces between Pickering emulsions. When charged nanoparticles are at the oil-water interface of an electrostatically stabilized emulsion, in addition to the screened Coulombic interaction, electric dipolar force also influences the total inter-droplet force profiles. An in-depth understanding of the effects of such electric dipolar forces is essential for designing colloidally stable Pickering nanoemulsions for various applications. EXPERIMENTS Inter-droplet forces between γ-Al2O3 nanoparticle stabilized oil-in-water nanoemulsion, containing superparamagnetic nanoparticles (magnetically polarizable) in the oil phase, are measured using the magnetic-chaining technique at different pH and salt concentrations. The role of mono-, di- and tri-valent salts on the inter-droplet force profiles are assessed. FINDINGS Force measurement studies reveal a lowering of inter-droplet spacing, within the linear chains, for higher salt concentrations due to an increased screening. Strong interfacial attachment of the charged nanoparticles results in the formation of an asymmetric charge cloud leading to an electric dipolar interaction. Incorporating the contributions of electric dipolar and screened Coulombic interactions, the theoretically estimated total repulsive force magnitudes are in good agreement with the experimental data. The obtained results offer better insights into the nature of colloidal force between charged particle stabilized nanoemulsions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manali Nandy
- Smart Materials Section, Corrosion Science and Technology Division, Materials Characterization Group, Metallurgy and Materials Group, HBNI, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu 603102, India
| | - B B Lahiri
- Smart Materials Section, Corrosion Science and Technology Division, Materials Characterization Group, Metallurgy and Materials Group, HBNI, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu 603102, India.
| | - John Philip
- Smart Materials Section, Corrosion Science and Technology Division, Materials Characterization Group, Metallurgy and Materials Group, HBNI, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu 603102, India
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Hunter SJ, Armes SP. Pickering Emulsifiers Based on Block Copolymer Nanoparticles Prepared by Polymerization-Induced Self-Assembly. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2020; 36:15463-15484. [PMID: 33325720 PMCID: PMC7884006 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.0c02595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Block copolymer nanoparticles prepared via polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA) represent an emerging class of organic Pickering emulsifiers. Such nanoparticles are readily prepared by chain-extending a soluble homopolymer precursor using a carefully selected second monomer that forms an insoluble block in the chosen solvent. As the second block grows, it undergoes phase separation that drives in situ self-assembly to form sterically stabilized nanoparticles. Conducting such PISA syntheses in aqueous solution leads to hydrophilic nanoparticles that enable the formation of oil-in-water emulsions. Alternatively, hydrophobic nanoparticles can be prepared in non-polar media (e.g., n-alkanes), which enables water-in-oil emulsions to be produced. In this review, the specific advantages of using PISA to prepare such bespoke Pickering emulsifiers are highlighted, which include fine control over particle size, copolymer morphology, and surface wettability. This has enabled various fundamental scientific questions regarding Pickering emulsions to be addressed. Moreover, block copolymer nanoparticles can be used to prepare Pickering emulsions over various length scales, with mean droplet diameters ranging from millimeters to less than 200 nm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saul J. Hunter
- Department of Chemistry,
Dainton Building, University of Sheffield, Brook Hill, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S3 7HF, U.K.
| | - Steven P. Armes
- Department of Chemistry,
Dainton Building, University of Sheffield, Brook Hill, Sheffield, South Yorkshire S3 7HF, U.K.
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