Spontaneous emulsification. (April 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Solans, Conxita; Morales, Daniel; Homs, Maria
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in colloid & interface science. Volume 22(2016)
• Page Start: 88
• Page End: 93
• Publication Date: 2016-04
• Subjects: Self-emulsification -- Diffusion -- Ouzo effect -- Phase inversion -- Low-energy emulsification -- Nanoemulsion; Surface chemistry -- Periodicals; Colloids -- Periodicals; 541.33
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cocis.2016.03.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-0294

Abstract

Abstract: Spontaneous emulsification may occur when immiscible liquids in non-equilibrium conditions are in contact. This phenomenon is triggered by gradients of chemical potential between the phases, which under certain conditions lead to negative values of free energy of emulsification. A summary of background information on spontaneous emulsification is first presented with emphasis on proposed mechanisms. It follows a description of recent developments, in both surfactant-free and surfactant systems. Applications based on the use of spontaneous emulsification to produce delivery systems and nanostructured materials with improved properties in a cost-effective way are also described. Graphical abstract: Schematic Gibbs free energy profile of emulsification processes driven by the internal energy of the system Highlights: Mechanisms of spontaneous emulsification were summarized. Metastable (ouzo effect) emulsions in water/co-solvent/oil systems were described. The key role of intermediate phases in systems with surfactants undergoing spontaneous emulsification was discussed. Applications of spontaneous emulsification in diverse fields were described.