Emulsification Using EDGE (Edge based Droplet GEneration) Devices

Spontaneous emulsification through microchannels, in which droplets are formed due to Laplace pressure difference, is a relatively new technique for preparing monodisperse emulsions. The technique is extremely suited for products containing temperature and shear sensitive ingredients and for products that require high monodispersity; however, industrial application is still not possible due to low production rates. We have recently introduced a new spontaneous droplet formation technique called EDGE (Edge-based droplet generation) with which multiple monodisperse droplets can be produced simultaneously from a single droplet formation unit (DFU). An EDGE-unit is a slit like structure called plateau located between an oil and a continuous phase channel. Monodisperse droplets are successfully produced at several locations along the entire length of the plateau. The system is robust and stable under acceptable pressure range. Investigations on an upscaled version (chip of 1.5 cm) showed that all the DFUs were active, further scaleup is currently being investigated.