Alginate Core-Shell Capsules Production through Coextrusion Methods: Principles and Technologies.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Encapsulation protects and delivers active compounds like food ingredients, enzymes, cells, or bioactives.
• Coextrusion technology enables the formation of core-shell structures for enhanced material properties and functionality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review principal coextrusion methods for producing core-shell capsules.
• To examine dripping, jet cutting, centrifugal, and electrohydrodynamic coextrusion systems.
• To highlight the versatility and economic potential of coextrusion encapsulation.

Main Methods:

• Coaxial nozzles are utilized to form core-shell capsules via coextrusion.
• Four distinct coextrusion techniques are analyzed: dripping, jet cutting, centrifugal, and electrohydrodynamic systems.
• Method selection is guided by the desired capsule size and specific application requirements.

Main Results:

• Coextrusion enables controlled production of core-shell capsules.
• The choice of coextrusion method impacts capsule characteristics and size.
• This technology is applicable across diverse sectors including food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agriculture, and textiles.

Conclusions:

• Coextrusion is a versatile and economically viable encapsulation technique.
• It offers controlled delivery and stabilization of active molecules.
• Coextrusion technology holds significant promise for innovation in multiple industries.