Chitosan-based Pickering emulsions and their applications: A review

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Colloid and Surface Chemistry
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Pickering emulsions, stabilized by solid particles, are gaining interest for their eco-friendliness and stability.
• Chitosan and chitosan-based particles are attractive Pickering stabilizers due to their biodegradable, biocompatible, and non-toxic properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in the production and physicochemical properties of chitosan-based Pickering emulsions.
• To highlight research progress in applying these emulsions in food, cosmetic, and environmental sectors.
• To discuss novel materials synthesized from these systems and future research opportunities.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications on chitosan-based Pickering emulsions.
• Analysis of studies focusing on emulsion preparation, characterization, and application.
• Synthesis of information on material design and future research directions.

Main Results:

• Chitosan-based Pickering emulsions demonstrate significant potential due to their favorable properties.
• Successful applications have been identified in food, cosmetics, and environmental remediation.
• These systems facilitate the design and production of novel materials.

Conclusions:

• Chitosan-based Pickering emulsions represent a promising platform for developing innovative and sustainable materials.
• Further research can unlock new applications and optimize existing ones.
• The unique properties of chitosan enable versatile use in Pickering emulsion technology.