Fabrication of novel colloidosome microcapsules with gelled aqueous cores

Abstract

Novel colloidosome microcapsules with aqueous gel cores and integral shells of polymeric colloid particles have been prepared and characterized. Our method is based on templating water-in-oil emulsions stabilized by polystyrene (PS) latex particles, followed by gelling of the aqueous phase with a suitable hydrocolloid. The obtained microcapsules were transferred into water after dissolving the oil phase in ethanol and multiple centrifugation–washing with ethanol and water. The presence of an aqueous gel core was found to be crucial for the structural integrity and mechanical stability of the obtained colloidosome microcapsules. The effect of the oil type on the final structure of the colloidosome membrane was also studied. It was demonstrated that by using an appropriate oil, the particles within the colloidosome monolayer can be partially or completely swollen which allows direct control over the membrane pore size and its permeability. Such colloidosome microcapsules may find applications as delivery vehicles for controlled release of drugs and cosmetic or food supplements.