Droplet size and stability of nano-emulsions produced by the temperature phase inversion method
Date
2008
Authors
Ee, S.
Duan, X.
Liew, C.
Nguyen, Q.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
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Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Chemical Engineering Journal, 2008; 140(1-3):626-631
Statement of Responsibility
Sher Lin Eea, Xiumei Duana, Jeffery Liewa and Q. Dzuy Nguyen
Conference Name
Abstract
We studied the formation and stability of n-decane in water nano-emulsions produced by the phase inversion temperature (PIT) emulsification method using polyoxyethylene lauryl ether as surfactant. The results obtained indicate that the droplet size and size distribution are strongly dependent on the methods of heating and cooling, and on the final temperature to which the mixture is cooled after phase inversion. Importantly, there exists an optimum storage temperature, at which the nano-emulsions are most stable, and develop ultra-small droplet sizes, ranging from 35 nm to 54 nm, with low polydispersity indices (0.2). This optimum temperature is about 20 °C below the PIT, and dependent on the surfactant concentration. Any departure in temperature from the optimum would result in increases in droplet sizes, polydispersity and instability by Ostwald ripening. Furthermore, nano-emulsions destabilized after a long period of storage at different temperatures can be rejuvenated simply by equilibration for a few minutes at the optimum temperature.
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Dissertation Note
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Description
http://www.elsevier.com/wps/find/journaldescription.cws_home/601273/description#description