Microplastic-Free Microcapsules Using Supramolecular Self-Assembly of Bis-Urea Molecules at an Emulsion Interface
Siddhant Pravin Bhutkar1, Pierre-Eric Millard2, Jon A Preece3
1School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, U.K.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|July 11, 2024
Summary
This study presents a novel, one-pot method for creating microplastic-free microcapsules using bis-urea self-assembly. This environmentally friendly approach offers controlled release and robust shells, addressing microplastic pollution concerns.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Supramolecular Chemistry
- Green Chemistry
Background:
- Industrial encapsulation often relies on non-degradable synthetic polymers, contributing to microplastic pollution.
- Regulatory pressures necessitate the development of sustainable alternatives to conventional microcapsules.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a microplastic-free microcapsule fabrication method using supramolecular self-assembly.
- To create environmentally friendly microcapsules with controlled release properties.
Main Methods:
- A one-pot process utilizing in-situ generated bis-urea species for shell formation via hydrogen bonding.
- Employing Laponite nanodiscs to control aggregation and reduce shell porosity in an oil-in-water emulsion.
Main Results:
- Achieved well-dispersed microcapsules (mean Sauter diameter ~5 μm) with high encapsulation efficiency (~99%).
- Demonstrated a significant increase (over tenfold) in the active ingredient's release time.
- Capsule mechanical strength was comparable to commercial melamine-formaldehyde microcapsules.
Conclusions:
- The developed supramolecular self-assembly method offers a viable, industrially scalable route to microplastic-free microcapsules.
- This technology provides an eco-friendly alternative for encapsulation, meeting regulatory demands and environmental concerns.
