Development of an Elongational‐Flow Microprocess for the Production of Size‐Controlled Nanoemulsions: Batch Operation. Issue 1 (11th November 2016) - Yu, Wei
Abstract : By passing alternatively through a restriction of 150, 250, or 500 μm in diameter, size‐controlled nanoemulsions with narrow size distribution, viscosity ratio up to 14, and solid content up to 50% can be easily produced at low pressure. An empirical dimensionless correlation is provided to predict nanodroplet size. Abstract : Performances of a newly developed microprocess in producing size‐controlled nanoemulsions in the lower nanometer range are assessed. The microprocess comprises an elongational‐flow micromixer with a bore size of either 150, 250, or 500 μm. By inducing a reciprocating flow through the restriction of the micromixer, methyl methacrylate (MMA)‐based nanoemulsions with controlled sizes in the range 50–300 nm are successfully prepared at low pressures (ca. 2.5 bars) in laminar to intermediate hydrodynamic flow regimes. Effect of process parameters (flow rate through the restriction, number of cycles), micromixer parameters (angle, bore size), and finally composition parameters (weight content of MMA and surfactant, dispersed to continuous phase viscosity ratio) on nanodroplet size and size distribution is thoroughly studied. A unique empirical correlation is extracted from the experimental results and is found to fairly well model the variations of the nanodroplet size with aforementioned parameters.