Biocompatible strategies of tailoring pickering interfaces

Abstract

Pickering emulsions present a healthy alternative to partially hydrogenated oils and a promising ingredient on the development of plant-based products. However, some applications are impaired by their rheological properties. On this work we aim to tune the viscoelasticity and stability of Pickering emulsions by different approaches of interface structuration. Chitin nanofibers (NCh) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) will be used as interface stabilizers on HIPE Pickering emulsions. Interface structuration will be induced by physical or chemical crosslinking using tannic acid or genipin, respectively. The effect of crosslinking type on the emulsion rheology and stability will be compared to the multilayered structuration of the interface through NCh-CNC complexation. The multilayered systems will also be strengthened by physical and/or chemical crosslinking in order to form bi-crosslinked emulsions. From the customization of emulsion interfaces, we aim to enhance emulsion elasticity and stability to time and external stimulus and broaden their use in biocompatible applications. (AU)