Microfluidic production of multiple emulsions and functional microcapsules

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Microfluidic technology allows for controlled fabrication of complex droplet structures.
• Multiple-emulsion drops with onion-like topology serve as templates for microcapsule synthesis.
• Core-shell geometry is key to developing functional microcapsules with tailored properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review state-of-the-art microfluidic techniques for producing multiple-emulsion drops.
• To explore methods for forming solid membranes in microcapsules.
• To highlight diverse applications of functional microcapsules.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing microfluidic devices for precise generation of multiple-emulsion drops.
• Employing four distinct methods for solid membrane formation around emulsion templates.
• Analyzing material selection and hierarchical structuring for membrane versatility.

Main Results:

• Demonstration of microfluidic control over multiple-emulsion topology and geometry.
• Successful creation of microcapsules with tunable membrane properties.
• Showcasing applications in sensing, structural coloration, and controlled release.

Conclusions:

• Microfluidic production of multiple-emulsion drops is a versatile platform for advanced functional microcapsules.
• Current limitations and future research directions in microfluidics and microcapsule technology are identified.