Stabilization of Pickering emulsions by generating complex colloidal layers at liquid-liquid interfaces

Area of Science:

• Colloid and Surface Science
• Materials Science
• Emulsion Technology

Background:

• Pickering emulsions typically rely on particle adsorption for stability.
• Small nanoparticles (<10 nm) often detach from interfaces, destabilizing emulsions.
• A method to enhance nanoparticle adhesion is needed for stable Pickering emulsions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a technique for creating mechanically stable Pickering emulsions.
• To investigate the interfacial behavior of nanoparticles in emulsions under various conditions.
• To address the destabilization issue caused by small nanoparticle detachment.

Main Methods:

• Forming oil-in-water emulsions using n-decane.
• Stabilizing the interface with a complex colloidal layer: 12 nm silica nanoparticles, poly(vinyl alcohol) binder, and silane coupling agent.
• Investigating emulsion behavior under high salinity conditions.

Main Results:

• A mechanically stable Pickering emulsion was successfully prepared.
• The complex colloidal layer effectively prevented nanoparticle detachment from the interface.
• Emulsion drops formed a gel phase under high salinity due to attraction.
• The interfacial layer structure remained intact, preventing coalescence even in harsh conditions.

Conclusions:

• The developed complex colloidal layer provides robust interfacial stabilization for Pickering emulsions.
• This method overcomes the limitations of small nanoparticle detachment, enhancing emulsion durability.
• The stabilized emulsions exhibit remarkable stability against coalescence under challenging conditions.