Tuning morphology of Pickering emulsions stabilised by biodegradable PLGA nanoparticles: How PLGA characteristics influence emulsion properties

In this study, we proved that the stabilisation of Pickering emulsions by polymer nanoparticles (NPs) heavily depends on characteristics. We prepared NPs with four poly(lactide–co–glycolide) polymers (PLGA), different molar masses (14,000 and 32,000 g/mol) end groups (acid or alkylester). were either bare (without stabilising polymer) covered polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). mixing NP aqueous suspensions various amounts oil (Miglyol 812 N). First, wettability was directly affected PLGA group: ester-ending led to more hydrophobic NPs, compared acid-ending PLGA. This effect group could be slightly enhanced smaller mass. Thus, stabilised types (W/O/W W/O), following Finkle’s rule. However, characteristics masked when PVA, as PVA drove O/W emulsions. Secondly, mass also influenced its glass transition temperature (Tg), spectacular consequences emulsion formation. Indeed, shortest exhibited a Tg close room temperature, measured in emulsion. Tg, easily exceeded during emulsification process, soft solid emulsion, network debris.