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Capillary-based Centrifugal Microfluidic Device for Size-controllable Formation of Monodisperse Microdroplets
Published on: February 22, 2016
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Cucurbit[n]uril-Based Microcapsules Self-Assembled within Microfluidic Droplets: A Versatile Approach for
1Melville Laboratory for Polymer Synthesis, Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge , Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom.
Accounts of Chemical Research
|January 12, 2017
Summary
This study introduces monodisperse supramolecular microcapsules using microfluidics and host-guest chemistry. These advanced microcapsules offer tunable properties and stimuli-responsive cargo release for diverse applications.
Area of Science:
- Supramolecular Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Microencapsulation is vital for applications from drug delivery to materials.
- Microfluidics enables precise fabrication of monodisperse microcapsules.
- Supramolecular chemistry, particularly host-guest interactions, enhances microcapsule functionality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the development of monodisperse supramolecular microcapsules.
- To detail fabrication strategies integrating microfluidics and host-guest chemistry.
- To highlight applications and future directions for stimuli-responsive microcapsules.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of monodisperse microcapsules using microfluidic techniques.
- Integration of cucurbit[n]uril (CB[n])-mediated host-guest chemistry.
- Exploration of colloidal particle-driven, interfacial condensation-driven, and electrostatic interaction-driven assembly strategies.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated control over microcapsule size, shape, and hierarchical structure.
- Engineered stimuli-responsive microcapsules with tunable stability and porosity.
- Showcased applications in controlled cargo delivery with triggered release.
Conclusions:
- Supramolecular microcapsules offer advanced functionalities through host-guest chemistry.
- Microfluidics and CB[n] interactions enable precise engineering of microcapsule properties.
- Further research can optimize cargo loading, triggered release, and expand applications.

