Microcapsules: Reverse Sonoporation and Long-lasting, Safe Contrast

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wrenn, Steven; Dicker, Stephen; Small, Eleanor; Maghnouj, Abdelouahid; Hahn, Stephan A.; Mleczko, Michał; Hensel, Karin; Schmitz, Georg

We present a novel vehicle designed to serve the dual roles of enhanced ultrasound contrast and ultrasound-triggered drug delivery. The vehicle is comprised of a microcapsule that is filled with water in whose aqueous core a population of freely floating, phospholipid-coated microbubbles is suspended. At ultrasound intensities below the inertial cavitation threshold of the microbubbles, the microbubbles provide enhanced ultrasound contrast. The measured contrast is comparable in strength with SonoVue®. Encapsulation of microbubbles within microcapsules putatively eliminates - or at least significantly slows - dissolution of gas in the bulk aqueous medium, thereby avoiding disappearance of microbubbles that would otherwise occur due to pressure-induced gas diffusion across the surfactant monolayer coating the microbubble-water interface. Results suggest that our vehicle might provide longer lasting contrast in a clinical setting. We demonstrate that encapsulation of the microbubbles within microcapsules causes at least a doubling of the ultrasound intensity necessary to induce inertial cavitation. Moreover, no cell death was observed when cells were insonified in the presence of microbubble-containing microcapsules, whereas appreciable cell death occurs with unencapsulated microbubbles. These results point toward a potential safety benefit during ultrasound contrast imaging by using encapsulated microbubbles. Studies are underway to investigate the feasibility of ultrasound-triggered release of drug from the microcapsules, owing to inertial- or stable-cavitation, or both. Whereas leakage from polymeric microcapsule shells, such as poly(lactic acid), seemingly requires shell rupture and is exceedingly difficult to achieve, leakage across a lipid bilayer microcapsule shells appears feasible. Leakage across a bilayer shell has the additional benefit that the leakage mechanism can be tuned via phase behavior (liquid-ordered versus liquid-disordered) and cavitation mechanism (stable versus inertial).

Encapsulated liquid sorbents for carbon dioxide capture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vericella, John J.; Baker, Sarah E.; Stolaroff, Joshuah K.; Duoss, Eric B.; Hardin, James O.; Lewicki, James; Glogowski, Elizabeth; Floyd, William C.; Valdez, Carlos A.; Smith, William L.; Satcher, Joe H.; Bourcier, William L.; Spadaccini, Christopher M.; Lewis, Jennifer A.; Aines, Roger D.

2015-02-01

Drawbacks of current carbon dioxide capture methods include corrosivity, evaporative losses and fouling. Separating the capture solvent from infrastructure and effluent gases via microencapsulation provides possible solutions to these issues. Here we report carbon capture materials that may enable low-cost and energy-efficient capture of carbon dioxide from flue gas. Polymer microcapsules composed of liquid carbonate cores and highly permeable silicone shells are produced by microfluidic assembly. This motif couples the capacity and selectivity of liquid sorbents with high surface area to facilitate rapid and controlled carbon dioxide uptake and release over repeated cycles. While mass transport across the capsule shell is slightly lower relative to neat liquid sorbents, the surface area enhancement gained via encapsulation provides an order-of-magnitude increase in carbon dioxide absorption rates for a given sorbent mass. The microcapsules are stable under typical industrial operating conditions and may be used in supported packing and fluidized beds for large-scale carbon capture.

Elongated Microcapsules and Their Formation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calle, Luz M. (Inventor); Li, Wenyan N. (Inventor); Buhrow, Jerry W. (Inventor); Perusich, Stephen A. (Inventor); Jolley, Scott T. (Inventor); Gibson, Tracy L. (Inventor); Williams, Martha K. (Inventor)

2015-01-01

Elongated microcapsules, such as elongated hydrophobic-core and hydrophilic-core microcapsules, may be formed by pulse stirring an emulsion or shearing an emulsion between two surfaces moving at different velocities. The elongated microcapsules may be dispersed in a coating formulation, such as paint.

Thermochromic microcapsules with highly transparent shells obtained through in-situ polymerization of urea formaldehyde around thermochromic cores for smart wood coatings.

PubMed

Zhu, Xiaodong; Liu, Yu; Li, Zhao; Wang, Weicong

2018-03-05

In this paper, thermochromic microcapsules were synthesized in situ polymerization with urea formaldehyde as shell material and thermochromic compounds as core material. The effects of emulsifying agent and conditions on surface morphology and particle size of microcapsules were studied. It was found that the size and surface morphology of microcapsules were strongly depending on stirring rate and the ratio of core to shell. The stable and small size spherical microcapsules with excellent transparency can be obtained at an emulsifying agent to core to shell ratio as 1:5:7.5 under mechanical stirring at 12 krpm for 15 min. Finally, the thermochromic property was discussed by loading microcapsules in wood and wood coatings. Results indicate that microcapsules can realize the thermochromic property while incorporated with wood and coatings, and could have high potential in smart material fabrication.

Semipermeable Elastic Microcapsules for Gas Capture and Sensing.

PubMed

Nabavi, Seyed Ali; Vladisavljević, Goran T; Gu, Sai; Manović, Vasilije

2016-09-27

Monodispersed microcapsules for gas capture and sensing were developed consisting of elastic semipermeable polymer shells of tunable size and thickness and pH-sensitive, gas selective liquid cores. The microcapsules were produced using glass capillary microfluidics and continuous on-the-fly photopolymerization. The inner fluid was 5-30 wt % K2CO3 solution with m-cresol purple, the middle fluid was a UV-curable liquid silicon rubber containing 0-2 wt % Dow Corning 749 fluid, and the outer fluid was aqueous solution containing 60-70 wt % glycerol and 0.5-2 wt % stabilizer (poly(vinyl alcohol), Tween 20, or Pluronic F-127). An analytical model was developed and validated for prediction of the morphology of the capsules under osmotic stress based on the shell properties and the osmolarity of the storage and core solutions. The minimum energy density and UV light irradiance needed to achieve complete shell polymerization were 2 J·cm(-2) and 13.8 mW·cm(-2), respectively. After UV exposure, the curing time for capsules containing 0.5 wt % Dow Corning 749 fluid in the middle phase was 30-40 min. The CO2 capture capacity of 30 wt % K2CO3 capsules was 1.6-2 mmol/g depending on the capsule size and shell thickness. A cavitation bubble was observed in the core when the internal water was abruptly removed by capillary suction, whereas a gradual evaporation of internal water led to buckling of the shell. The shell was characterized using TGA, DSC, and FTIR. The shell degradation temperature was 450-460 °C.

Composite Materials for Maxillofacial Prostheses.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-08-01

projected composite systems are elastomeric-shelled, liquid-filled * microcapsules . Experiments continued on the interfacial polymerization process with...filled microcapsules . Experiments continued on the interfacial polymerization process, with spherical, sealed, capsules achieved. Needs identified are...consists of liquid-filled, elastomeric-shelled microcapsules held together to form a deformable mass; this is to simulate the semi-liquid cellular structure

[Polyelectrolyte microcapsules as systems for delivery of biologically active substances].

PubMed

Borodina, T N; Rumsh, L D; Kunizhev, S M; Sukhorukov, G B; Vorozhtsov, G N; Fel'dman, B M; Markvicheva, E A

2007-01-01

Novel biodegradable microcapsules for delivery of biologically active substances (BAS) were prepared by layer-by-layer (LbL) adsorption of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes, namely sodium alginate (Alg) and poly-L-lysine (PLL). To immobilize these BAS, porous spherical CaCO3 microparticles were used as templates. The templates (cores) were coated with several layers of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes forming shell on a core surface. The core-shell microparticles were converted into hollow microcapsules by a core dissolution after an EDTA treatment. Mild conditions for microcapsule fabrication allow to perform an entrapment of various biomolecules while keeping their bioactivity. Biocompatibility and biodegradable capability of the polyelectrolytes give a possibility to use the microcapsules as the target delivery systems. Chymotrypsin (Chym) entrapped into the microcapsules was used as a model enzyme. The immobilized enzyme was found to keep about 86% of the activity compared to a native Chym. The obtained microcapsules were stable at an acidic medium while they could be easily decomposed by trypsin treatment at an slightly alkaline medium. Chym was shown to be active after being released from the microcapsules decomposed by trypsin treatment. Thus, the microcapsules prepared by the LbL - technique can be used for the development of new type of BAS delivery systems in humans and animals.

Peculiarities of light absorption by spherical microcapsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geints, Yurii E.; Panina, Ekaterina K.; Zemlyanov, Alexander A.

2018-04-01

Optical radiation absorption in the poly-layer spherical microparticles simulating the inorganic/organic polyshell absorbing microcapsules is considered. With the aim of the finite-difference time-domain technique, the spatial distribution of the absorbed light power in microcapsules of various sizes and internal structure is numerically calculated. For the purpose of light absorption enhancement, we have engineered the optimal structure of a capsule consisting of a strong-refracting transparent outer coating and an absorbing layer which covers a liquid core. The proposed microcapsule prototype provides for a manifold increase in the absorbed light power density in comparison with the usual single-layer absorbing capsule. We show that for light-wavelengths-scaled microcapsules it is optimal to use a material with the refractive index larger than two as an outer shell, for example, titanium dioxide (TiO2). The highest values of the absorbed power density can be obtained in microcapsules with absorbing shell thickness of approximately a tenth of a laser wavelength. When laser radiation is scattered by a dimer constituted by two identical absorbing microcapsules the absorbed power density can be maximized by the choosing of proper dimer spatial configuration. In the case of strongly absorbing particles, the absorption maximum corresponds to a shift of the capsules to a distance of about their diameter, and in the case of weakly absorbing particles the absorption is maximal when particles are in geometrical shades of each other.

Microcapsules and Methods for Making

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R. (Inventor); Mosier, Benjamin (Inventor)

1998-01-01

Methods of forming multi-lamellar microcapsules having alternating layers of hydrophilic and hydrophobic immiscible liquid phases have been developed using different polymer/solvent systems. The methods use liquid-liquid diffusion and simultaneous lateral phase separation, controlled by proper timed-sequence exposures of immiscible phases and low shear mixing, to form narrow size distributions of spherical, multilamellar microcapsules. The use of special formulations of solubilized drugs, surfactants, and polymeric co-surfactants in aqueous vehicles which are dispersed in hydrocarbon solvents containing small quantities of oil, low molecular weight co-surfactants and glycerides that are aqueous insoluble enables the formation of unique microcapsules which can carry large amounts of pharmaceuticals in both aqueous and non-aqueous solvent compartments. The liquid microcapsules are quickly formed in a single step and can include a polymeric outer 'skin' which protects the microcapsules during physical manipulation or exposure to high shear forces. Water-in-oil and oil-in-water microcapsules have been formed both in 1 x g and in microgravity, which contain several types of drugs co-encapsulated within different fluid compartments inside the same microcapsule. Large, spherical multi-lamellar microcapsules have been formed including a cytotoxic drug co-encapsulated with a radiocontrast medium which has advantages for chemoembolization of vascular tumors. In certain cases, crystals of the drug form inside the microcapsules providing zero-order and first order, sustained drug release kinetics.

Microencapsulation and Electrostatic Processing Method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R. (Inventor); Mosier, Benjamin (Inventor)

2000-01-01

Methods are provided for forming spherical multilamellar microcapsules having alternating hydrophilic and hydrophobic liquid layers, surrounded by flexible, semi-permeable hydrophobic or hydrophilic outer membranes which can be tailored specifically to control the diffusion rate. The methods of the invention rely on low shear mixing and liquid-liquid diffusion process and are particularly well suited for forming microcapsules containing both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs. These methods can be carried out in the absence of gravity and do not rely on density-driven phase separation, mechanical mixing or solvent evaporation phases. The methods include the process of forming, washing and filtering microcapsules. In addition, the methods contemplate coating microcapsules with ancillary coatings using an electrostatic field and free fluid electrophoresis of the microcapsules. The microcapsules produced by such methods are particularly useful in the delivery of pharmaceutical compositions.

Fabrication of Microcapsules for Dye-Doped Polymer-Dispersed Liquid Crystal-Based Smart Windows.

PubMed

Kim, Mingyun; Park, Kyun Joo; Seok, Seunghwan; Ok, Jong Min; Jung, Hee-Tae; Choe, Jaehoon; Kim, Do Hyun

2015-08-19

A dye-doped polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) is an attractive material for application in smart windows. Smart windows using a PDLC can be operated simply and have a high contrast ratio compared to those of other devices that employed photochromic or thermochromic material. However, in conventional dye-doped PDLC methods, dye contamination can cause problems and has a limited degree of commercialization of electric smart windows. Here, we report on an approach to resolve dye-related problems by encapsulating the dye in monodispersed capsules. By encapsulation, a fabricated dye-doped PDLC had a contrast ratio of >120 at 600 nm. This fabrication method of encapsulating the dye in a core-shell structured microcapsule in a dye-doped PDLC device provides a practical platform for dye-doped PDLC-based smart windows.

Amplified Photon Upconversion by Photonic Shell of Cholesteric Liquid Crystals.

PubMed

Kang, Ji-Hwan; Kim, Shin-Hyun; Fernandez-Nieves, Alberto; Reichmanis, Elsa

2017-04-26

As an effective platform to exploit triplet-triplet-annihilation-based photon upconversion (TTA-UC), microcapsules composed of a fluidic UC core and photonic shell are microfluidically prepared using a triple emulsion as the template. The photonic shell consists of cholesteric liquid crystals (CLCs) with a periodic helical structure, exhibiting a photonic band gap. Combined with planar anchoring at the boundaries, the shell serves as a resonance cavity for TTA-UC emission and enables spectral tuning of the UC under low-power-density excitation. The CLC shell can be stabilized by introducing a polymerizable mesogen in the LC host. Because of the microcapsule spherical symmetry, spontaneous emission of the delayed fluorescence is omnidirectionally amplified at the edge of the stop band. These results demonstrate the range of opportunities provided by TTA-UC systems for the future design of low-threshold photonic devices.

Controlled-Release Microcapsules for Smart Coatings for Corrosion Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2008-01-01

Corrosion is a serious problem that has enormous costs and serious safety implications. Localized corrosion, such as pitting, is very dangerous and can cause catastrophic failures. The NASA Corrosion Technology Laboratory at Kennedy Space Center is developing a smart coating based on pH-sensitive microcapsules for corrosion applications. These versatile microcapsules are designed to be incorporated into a smart coating and deliver their core content when corrosion starts. Corrosion indication was the first function incorporated into the microcapsules. Current efforts are focused on incorporating the corrosion inhibition function through the encapsulation of corrosion inhibitors into water core and oil core microcapsules. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of encapsulated corrosion inhibitors are shown.

Organic-dye-coupled magnetic nanoparticles encaged inside thermoresponsive PNIPAM Microcapsules.

PubMed

Guo, Jia; Yang, Wuli; Deng, Yonghui; Wang, Changchun; Fu, Shoukuan

2005-07-01

We present a new approach for the fabrication of thermoresponsive polymer microcapsules with mobile magnetic cores that undergo a volume phase-transition upon changing the temperature and are collected under an external magnetic field. We have prepared organic/inorganic composite microspheres with a well-defined core-shell structure that are composed of a crosslinked poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) shell and silica cores dotted centrally by magnetite nanoparticles. Since the infiltration of template-decomposed products is dependent on the permeability of PNIPAM shells triggered by changes of exterior temperature, the silica layer sandwiched between the magnetic core and the PNIPAM shell was quantitatively removed to generate PNIPAM microcapsules with mobile magnetic cores by treatment with aqueous NaOH solution. For development of the desired multifunctional microcapsules, modification of the unetched silica surface interiors can be realized by treatment with a silane coupling agent containing functional groups that can easily bind to catalysts, enzymes, or labeling molecules. Herein, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), which is a common organic dye, is attached to the insides of the mobile magnetic cores to give PNIPAM microcapsules with FITC-labeled magnetic cores. In this system, it can be expected that an extension of the functionalization of the cavity properties of smart polymer microcapsules is to immobilize other target molecules onto the mobile cores in order to introduce other desired functions in the hollow cage.

Composite Materials for Maxillofacial Prostheses.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-08-01

necessary and Identify byv block number) MAXILLOFACIAL PROSTHESES; PROSTHETIC MATERIALS: MICROCAPSULES : SOFT FILLERS; ELASTOMER COMPOSITES 2,. ABSTRACT...used as fillers in the fabrication of maxillofacial prostheses. The projected systems are elastomeric-shelled, liquid-filled microcapsules . Improvements...elastomeric-shelled, liquid-filled microcapsules . Experiments continued on the interfacial polymerization process, with spherical, sealed, capsules

Towards a fully synthetic substitute of alginate: optimization of a thermal gelation/chemical cross-linking scheme ("tandem" gelation) for the production of beads and liquid-core capsules.

PubMed

Cellesi, F; Weber, W; Fussenegger, M; Hubbell, J A; Tirelli, N

2004-12-20

Fully synthetic polymers were used for the preparation of hydrogel beads and capsules, in a processing scheme that, originally designed for calcium alginate, was adapted to a "tandem" process, that is the combination a physical gelation with a chemical cross-linking. The polymers feature a Tetronic backbone (tetra armed Pluronics), which exhibits a reverse thermal gelation in water solutions within a physiological range of temperatures and pHs. The polymers bear terminal reactive groups that allow for a mild, but effective chemical cross-linking. Given an appropriate temperature jump, the thermal gelation provides a hardening kinetics similar to that of alginate. With slower kinetics, the chemical cross-linking then develops an irreversible and elastic gel structure, and determines its transport properties. In the present article this process has been optimized for the production of monodisperse, high elastic, hydrogel microbeads, and liquid-core microcapsules. We also show the feasibility of the use of liquid-core microcapsules in cell encapsulation. In preliminary experiments, CHO cells have been successfully encapsulated preserving their viability during the process and after incubation. The advantages of this process are mainly in the use of synthetic polymers, which provide great flexibility in the molecular design. This, in principle, allows for a precise tailoring of mechanical and transport properties and of bioactivity of the hydrogels, and also for a precise control in material purification.

In Situ Activation of Microcapsules

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R. (Inventor); Mosier, Benjamin (Inventor)

2000-01-01

Disclosed are microcapsules comprising a polymer shell enclosing two or more immiscible liquid phases in which a drug, or a prodrug and a drug activator are partitioned into separate phases. or prevented from diffusing out of the microcapsule by a liquid phase in which the drug is poorly soluble. Also disclosed are methods of using the microcapsules for in situ activation of drugs where upon exposure to an appropriate energy source the internal phases mix and the drug is activated in situ.

Morphological study of polymethyl methacrylate microcapsules filled with self-healing agents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahangaran, Fatemeh; Hayaty, Mehran; Navarchian, Amir H.

2017-03-01

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microcapsules filled with epoxy prepolymer, 3-aminomethyl-3,5,5-trimethylcyclohexylamine, and pentaerythritol tetrakis (3-mercaptopropionate) as healing agents have been prepared separately through internal phase separation method for self-healing purposes. PMMA with two different molecular weights (M bar1 = 36,000 g/mol and M bar2 = 550,000 g/mol) were used with two types of different emulsifiers (ionic and polymeric) to prepare microcapsules. The morphology of healing agent microcapsules was investigated using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). It was found that PMMA microcapsules separately filled with epoxy and amine had core-shell morphologies with smooth surfaces. The mercaptan/PMMA particles exhibited core-shell and acorn-shape morphologies. The surface morphology of mercaptan microcapsules changed from holed to plain in different emulsion systems. The spreading coefficient (S) of phases in the prepared emulsion systems were calculated from interfacial tension (σ) and contact angle (θ) measurements. The theoretical equilibrium morphology of PMMA microcapsules was predicted according to spreading coefficient values of phases in emulsion systems. It was also found that the surface morphology of PMMA microcapsules depended strongly on the nature of the core, molecular weight of PMMA, type and concentration of emulsifier.

Polymer-encapsulated carbon capture liquids that tolerate precipitation of solids for increased capacity

DOEpatents

Aines, Roger D; Bourcier, William L; Spadaccini, Christopher M; Stolaroff, Joshuah K

2015-02-03

A system for carbon dioxide capture from flue gas and other industrial gas sources utilizes microcapsules with very thin polymer shells. The contents of the microcapsules can be liquids or mixtures of liquids and solids. The microcapsules are exposed to the flue gas and other industrial gas and take up carbon dioxide from the flue gas and other industrial gas and eventual precipitate solids in the capsule.

A Multifunctional Coating for Autonomous Corrosion Control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calle, L. M.; Hintze, P. E.; Li, W.; Buhrow, J. W.; Jolley, S. T.

2011-01-01

This slide presentation reviews the effects of corrosion on various structures at the Kennedy Space Center, and the work to discover a corrosion control coating that will be autonomous and will indicate corrosion at an early point in the process. Kennedy Space Center has many environmental conditions that are corrosive: ocean salt spray, heat, humidity, sunlight and acidic exhaust from the Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs). Presented is a chart which shows the corrosion rates of carbon steel at various locations. KSC has the highest corrosion rates with 42.0 mils/yr, leading the next highest Galeta Point Beach, in the Panama Canal Zone with 27 mils/yr corrosion. A chart shows the changes in corrosion rate with the distance from the ocean. The three types of corrosion protective coatings are described: barrier (passive), Barrier plus active corrosion inhibiting components, and smart. A smart coating will detect and respond actively to changes in its environment in a functional and predictable manner and is capable of adapting its properties dynamically. The smart coating uses microcapsules, particles or liquid drops coated in polymers, that can detect and control the corrosion caused by the environment. The mechanism for a pH sensitive microcapsule and the hydrophobic core microcapsule are demonstrated and the chemistry is reviewed. When corrosion begins, the microcapsule will release the contents of the core (indicator, inhibitor, and self healing agent) in close proximity to the corrosion. The response to a pH increase is demonstrated by a series of pictures that show the breakdown of the microcapsule and the contents release. An example of bolt corrosion is used, as an example of corrosion in places that are difficult to ascertain. A comparison of various coating systems is shown.

Light-Responsive and pH-Responsive DNA Microcapsules for Controlled Release of Loads.

PubMed

Huang, Fujian; Liao, Wei-Ching; Sohn, Yang Sung; Nechushtai, Rachel; Lu, Chun-Hua; Willner, Itamar

2016-07-20

A method to assemble light-responsive or pH-responsive microcapsules loaded with different loads (tetramethylrhodamine-modified dextran, TMR-D; microperoxidase-11, MP-11; CdSe/ZnS quantum dots; or doxorubicin-modified dextran, DOX-D) is described. The method is based on the layer-by-layer deposition of sequence-specific nucleic acids on poly(allylamine hydrochloride)-functionalized CaCO3 core microparticles, loaded with the different loads, that after the dissolution of the core particles with EDTA yields the stimuli-responsive microcapsules that include the respective loads. The light-responsive microcapsules are composed of photocleavable o-nitrobenzyl-phosphate-modified DNA shells, and the pH-responsive microcapsules are made of a cytosine-rich layer cross-linked by nucleic acid bridges. Irradiating the o-nitrobenzyl phosphate-functionalized microcapsules, λ = 365 nm, or subjecting the pH-responsive microcapsules to pH = 5.0, results in the cleavage of the microcapsule shells and the release of the loads. Preliminary studies address the cytotoxicity of the DOX-D-loaded microcapsules toward MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and normal MCF-10A breast epithelial cells. Selective cytotoxicity of the DOX-D-loaded microcapsules toward cancer cells is demonstrated.

Programmable Payload Release from Transient Polymer Microcapsules Triggered by a Specific Ion Coactivation Effect.

PubMed

Tang, Shijia; Tang, Liuyan; Lu, Xiaocun; Liu, Huiying; Moore, Jeffrey S

2018-01-10

Stimuli-responsive materials activated by a pair of molecular or ionic species are of interest in the design of chemical logic gates and signal amplification schemes. There are relatively few materials whose coactivated response has been well-characterized. Here, we demonstrate a specific ion coactivation (SICA) effect at the interfaces of transient polymer solids and liquid solutions. We found that depolymerization of the transient polymer, cyclic poly(phthalaldehyde) (cPPA), exhibited a SICA effect when the cPPA core-shell microcapsules were suspended in ion-containing acidic methanol solutions. Significant acceleration in cPPA depolymerization rate is triggered by the combination of acid and ion coactivators. Intriguingly, the SICA effect is related to the Hofmeister behavior. The SICA effect is primarily determined by anions, and cations exhibit a secondary effect that modulates the coactivation strength. Based on these observations, we developed cPPA programmable microcapsules whose payload release rates depend on the composition and concentration of the salt/acidic-methanol solutions.

Hydrogel Encapsulation Facilitates Rapid-Cooling Cryopreservation of Stem Cell-Laden Core-Shell Microcapsules as Cell-Biomaterial Constructs.

PubMed

Zhao, Gang; Liu, Xiaoli; Zhu, Kaixuan; He, Xiaoming

2017-12-01

Core-shell structured stem cell microencapsulation in hydrogel has wide applications in tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and cell-based therapies because it offers an ideal immunoisolative microenvironment for cell delivery and 3D culture. Long-term storage of such microcapsules as cell-biomaterial constructs by cryopreservation is an enabling technology for their wide distribution and ready availability for clinical transplantation. However, most of the existing studies focus on cryopreservation of single cells or cells in microcapsules without a core-shell structure (i.e., hydrogel beads). The goal of this study is to achieve cryopreservation of stem cells encapsulated in core-shell microcapsules as cell-biomaterial constructs or biocomposites. To this end, a capillary microfluidics-based core-shell alginate hydrogel encapsulation technology is developed to produce porcine adipose-derived stem cell-laden microcapsules for vitreous cryopreservation with very low concentration (2 mol L -1 ) of cell membrane penetrating cryoprotective agents (CPAs) by suppressing ice formation. This may provide a low-CPA and cost-effective approach for vitreous cryopreservation of "ready-to-use" stem cell-biomaterial constructs, facilitating their off-the-shelf availability and widespread applications. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Dissolution stability studies of suspensions of prolonged-release diclofenac microcapsules prepared by the Wurster process: I. Eudragit-based formulation and possible drug-excipient interaction.

PubMed

Adeyeye, M C; Mwangi, E; Katondo, B; Jain, A; Ichikawa, H; Fukumori, Y

2005-06-01

The aim was to evaluate possible interaction in solid and liquid state of the drug with formulation excipients consequent to very fast drug release of diclofenac-Eudragit prolonged release microcapsules. The microcapsules were prepared by drug layering on calcium carbonate cores and coated with Eudragit RS 30D and L30D-55 as previously reported. Suspension of the microcapsules was prepared using microcrystalline cellulose/sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Avicel CL-611) as medium. In vitro dissolution testing of the suspension was done, and, based on the dissolution results, possible interaction between diclofenac and Eudragit and Avicel in the medium was studied. Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analyses were performed using 1:1 binary, 1:1:1 ternary mixtures and a ratio equivalent to that in the formulation. The mixtures were prepared by mixing the dispersions--Eudragit RS 30D or L30D-55 with the drug or other components, followed by drying at 60 degrees C for 48 h. Dry mixing was done using the powder equivalents of the polymers, Eudragit RS PO and L100-55, Avicel and calcium carbonate. In vitro dissolution of the suspended microcapsules showed a very fast release after 48 h (T50 = <1 h) compared to the solid microcapsules (T50 = 6 h). DSC curves of the formulation components or microcapsules did not show the characteristic endothermic peak of diclofenac at 287 degrees C. Powder X-ray diffraction of the binary or ternary mixtures of diclofenac and Eudragit polymers indicated reduction, shift or modification of the crystalline peaks of the drug or excipients at 2theta of 12 degrees and 18 degrees , suggestive of interaction. Some changes in drug peak characteristics at 18 degrees and 23 degrees were observed for Avicel/drug mixture, though not significant. The DSC curves of the binary mixture of diclofenac co-dried with liquid forms of Eudragit (i.e. RS 30D or L30D-55) revealed greater interaction compared to the curves of drug and powdered forms of Eudragit (RS PO or L100-55). This was depicted by greater shift in fusion points of the mixtures relative to the drug. However, comparing the RS and L-type Eudragit, the latter generally showed greater interaction with the drug. Interaction between diclofenac and L-type Eudragit polymers can occur in liquid formulations.

Target binding influences permeability in aptamer-polyelectrolyte microcapsules.

PubMed

Sultan, Yasir; DeRosa, Maria C

2011-05-09

Aptamer-polyelectrolyte microcapsules are prepared for potential use as triggered delivery vehicles and microreactors. The hollow microcapsules are prepared from the sulforhodamine B aptamer and the polyelectrolytes poly(allylamine hydrochloride) and poly(sodium 4-styrene-sulfonate), using layer-by-layer (LbL) film deposition templated on a sacrificial CaCO(3) spherical core. Scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy confirm the formation of spherical CaCO(3) cores and LbL-aptamer microcapsules. Colocalization studies with fluorescently-tagged aptamer and sulforhodamine B verify the ability of the aptamer to recognize its cognate target in the presence of the K(+) ions that are required for its characteristic G-quadruplex formation. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching studies confirms a significant difference in the permeability of the aptamer-polyelectrolyte microcapsules for the sulforhodamine B dye target compared to control microcapsules prepared with a random oligonucleotide. These results suggest that aptamer-based 'smart' responsive films and microcapsules could be applied to problems of catalysis and controlled release. Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Polypropylenes foam consisting of thermally expandable microcapsule as blowing agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeoung, Sun Kyung; Hwang, Ye Jin; Lee, Hyun Wook; Kwak, Sung Bok; Han, In-Soo; Ha, Jin Uk

2016-03-01

The structure of thermally expandable microcapsule (TEMs) is consisted of a thermoplastic shell which is filled with liquid hydrocarbon at core. The shell of TEMs becomes soft when the temperature is higher than boiling temperature of liquid hydrocarbon. The shell of TEMs is expanded under the high temperature because the inner pressure of TEMs is increased by vaporization of hydrocarbon core. Therefore, the TEMs are applicable for blowing agents and light weight fillers. In this research, we fabricated the polypropylene (PP) foam by using the TEMs and chemical blowing agents and compared to their physical properties. The density of the specimen was decreased when the contents of chemical blowing agents and TEMs were increased. In addition, the mechanical properties (i.e. tensile strength and impact strength) of specimens were deteriorated with increasing amount of chemical blowing agents and TEMs. However, PP foam produced with TEMs showed higher impact strength than the one with the chemical blowing agent. In order to clarify the dependence of impact strength of PP foam as the blowing agent, the morphology difference of the PP foams was investigated. Expanding properties of PP foams produced with TEMs was changed with TEMs content of PP foams. Processing conditions also influenced the mechanical properties of PP foam containing TEMs.

AFM Investigation of Liquid-Filled Polymer Microcapsules Elasticity.

PubMed

Sarrazin, Baptiste; Tsapis, Nicolas; Mousnier, Ludivine; Taulier, Nicolas; Urbach, Wladimir; Guenoun, Patrick

2016-05-10

Elasticity of polymer microcapsules (MCs) filled with a liquid fluorinated core is studied by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Accurately characterized spherical tips are employed to obtain the Young's moduli of MCs having four different shell thicknesses. We show that those moduli are effective ones because the samples are composites. The strong decrease of the effective MC elasticity (from 3.0 to 0.1 GPa) as the shell thickness decreases (from 200 to 10 nm) is analyzed using a novel numerical approach. This model describes the evolution of the elasticity of a coated half-space according to the contact radius, the thickness of the film, and the elastic moduli of bulk materials. This numerical model is consistent with the experimental data and allows simulating the elastic behavior of MCs at high frequencies (5 MHz). While the quasi-static elasticity of the MCs is found to be very dependent on the shell thickness, the high frequency (5 MHz) elastic behavior of the core leads to a stable behavior of the MCs (from 2.5 to 3 GPa according to the shell thickness). Finally, the effect of thermal annealing on the MCs elasticity is investigated. The Young's modulus is found to decrease because of the reduction of the shell thickness due to the loss of the polymer.

Release rate of diazinon from microcapsule based on melamine formaldehyde

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noviana Utami C., S.; Rochmadi

2018-04-01

The microcapsule containing diazinon as the core material and melamine formaldehyde as the membrane material have been synthesized by in situ polymerization method. The microcapsule membrane in this research is melamine formaldehyde (MF). This research aims to study the effect of pH and temperature on the release rate of diazinon from microcapsule based on melamine formaldehyde in aqueous medium. The results showed that pH and temperature has little effect on the release rate of diazinon from microcapsule based on melamine formaldehyde. This is due to the diffusion through the microcapsule membrane is not influenced by the pH and temperature of the solution outside of microcapsule.

Simulating tissue oxygenation by encapsulating hemoglobin in polymer microcapsules (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Guangli; Wu, Qiang; Shen, Shuwei; Zhao, Gang; Dong, Erbao; Xu, Ronald X.

2017-03-01

We describe a combination of liquid-jet microencapsulation and molding techniques to fabricate tissue-simulating phantoms that mimick functional characteristics of tissue oxygen saturation (StO2). Chicken hemoglobin (Hb) was encapsulated inside a photocurable resin by a coaxial flow focusing process. The microdroplets were cured by ultraviolet (UV) illumination to form Hb loaded polymersome microdroplets. The microdroplets were further freeze-dried to form semipermeable solid microcapules with an outer transparent polymeric shell and an inner core of Hb. The diameter of the microcapsules ranged from 50 to100 μm. The absorption spectrum of the microcapsules was measured by a UV/VIS spectrophotometer over a wavelength range from 400 nm to 1100 nm. To fabricate the tissue-simulating phantom, the Hb loaded microcapsules were dispersed in transparent polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The optical properties of the phantom were determined by an vertical double integrating sphere with a reconstruction algorithm. The experimental results showed that the tissue-simulating phantom exhibited the spectral characteristics closely resembling that of oxy-hemoglobin. The phantom had a long-term optical stability when stored in 4 ℃, indicating that microencapsulation effectively protected Hb and improved its shelf time. With the Hb loaded microcapsules, we will produce skin-simulating phantoms for quantitative validation of multispectral imaging techniques. To the best of the authors' knowledge, no solid phantom is able to mimick living tissue oxygenation with good agreement. Therefore, our work provided an engineering platform for validating and calibrating spectral optical devices in biomedical applications.

Fabrication of Novel Types of Colloidosome Microcapsules for Drug Delivery Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-01-01

UNCLASSIFIED Defense Technical Information Center Compilation Part Notice ADP019733 TITLE: Fabrication of Novel Types of Colloidosome Microcapsules ...UNCLASSIFIED Mater. Res. Soc. Symp. Proc. Vol. 845 © 2005 Materials Research Society AA5.18 Fabrication of Novel Types of Colloidosome Microcapsules for Drug...Novel colloidosome microcapsules with aqueous gel cores and shells of different polymeric colloid particles have been prepared and characterized. Our

A combined interfacial and in-situ polymerization strategy to construct well-defined core-shell epoxy-containing SiO2-based microcapsules with high encapsulation loading, super thermal stability and nonpolar solvent tolerance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia; Wang; Tian; Li; Xu; Jiao; Cao; Wu

2016-10-01

SiO2-based microcapsules containing hydrophobic molecules exhibited potential applications such as extrinsic self-healing, drug delivery, due to outstanding thermal and chemical stability of SiO2. However, to construct SiO2-based microcapsules with both high encapsulation loading and long-term structural stability is still a troublesome issue, limiting their further utilization. We herein design a single-batch route, a combined interfacial and in-situ polymerization strategy, to fabricate epoxy-containing SiO2-based microcapsules with both high encapsulation loading and long-term structural stability. The final SiO2-based microcapsules preserve high encapsulation loading of 85.7 wt% by controlling exclusively hydrolysis and condensed polymerization at oil/water interface in the initial interfacial polymerization step. In the subsequent in-situ polymerization step, the initial SiO2-based microcapsules as seeds could efficiently harvest SiO2 precursors and primary SiO2 particles to finely tune the SiO2 wall thickness, thereby enhancing long-term structural stability of the final SiO2-based microcapsules including high thermal stability with almost no any weight loss until 250°C, and strong tolerance against nonpolar solvents such as CCl4 with almost unchanged core-shell structure and unchanged core weight after immersing into strong solvents for up to 5 days. These SiO2-based microcapsules are extremely suited for processing them into anticorrosive coating in the presence of nonpolar solvents for self-healing application.

Microcapsules and Methods for Making

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R. (Inventor); Mosier, Benjamin (Inventor)

1994-01-01

This invention relates to methods for forming multi-lamellar microcapsules of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic immiscible liquid phases using several polymer/solvent systems. Liquid-Liquid diffusion and spontaneous emulsification are controlled by properly timed sequence exposures of immiscible phases in aqueous vehicles dispersed in hydrocarbon solvents containing small quantities of oil, co-surfactants, and glycerides. Water-in-oil and oil-in-water microcapsules are formed containing selected combinations of several types of drugs, co-encapsulated within fluid compartments inside the microcapsule. Commercial applications of the process and the resultant product relate to drug therapy for treating medical conditions such as cancer, circulatory conditions, and other conditions in which pharmaceuticals are advantageously targeted to specific organs, or delivered in combination with other pharmaceuticals. Small microcapsules may be delivered intravenously to diseased organs or clotted vessels. The use of multiple drugs within the same microcapsule structure provides advantages for applications such as chemoembolization treatments and may be used to deliver both chemotherapeutic drugs, against tumor cells, and an immuno-adjuvant or immunological stimulant to enhance the patient's immune response. Active forms of urokinase and other enzymes may be delivered without dilution to the local site of an embolism for dissolving the embolism. Thus, the invention has several potentially valuable commercial applications related to pharmaceutical and medical applications.

Microencapsulation of anti-tumor, antibiotic and thrombolytic drugs in microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R.; Mosier, Benjamin; Cassanto, John

1994-01-01

Encapsulation of cytotoxic or labile drugs enables targeted delivery and sustained release kinetics that are not available with intravenous injection. A new liquid-liquid diffusion process has been developed for forming unique microcapsules that contain both aqueous and hydrocarbon soluble drugs. Microgravity experiments, on sounding rockets (1989-92) and Shuttle missions STS-52 (1992) and STS-56 (1993) using an automated Materials Dispersion Apparatus, produced multi-lamellar microcapsules containing both Cis-platinum (anti-tumor drug) and iodinated poppy seed oil (a radiocontrast medium), surrounded by a polyglyceride skin. Microcapsules formed with amoxicillin (antibiotic) or urokinase (a clot dissolving enzyme), co-encapsulated with IPO, are still intact after two years. Microcapsules were formed with the drug so concentrated that crystals formed inside. Multi-layered microspheres, with both hydrophobic drug compartments, can enable diffusion of complementary drugs from the same microcapsule, e.g. antibiotics and immuno-stimulants to treat resistant infections or multiple fibrinolytic drugs to dissolve emboli. Co-encapsulation of enough radio-contrast medium enables oncologists to monitor the delivery of anti-tumor microcapsules to target tumors using computerized tomography and radiography that would track the distribution of microcapsules after release from the intra-arterial catheter. These microcapsules could have important applications in chemotheraphy of certain liver, kidney, brain and other tumors.

Process for Preparing Microcapsules Having Gelatin Walls Crosslinked with Quinone.

DTIC Science & Technology

A process for conveniently producing microcapsules containing a gelatin wall crosslinked with quinone and a core of an active compound such as a...provides microcapsules of excellent strength, storage stability, and resistance to aqueous exposure, such that the rate of release of the fouling reducing agent can be controlled with precision. jg

Composite Materials for Maxillofacial Prostheses.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-02-01

the most promise for producing elastomeric-shelled microcapsules containing an inert liquid. While much of the diverse field of microencapsulation is...Processes and Applications, Chicago, 28 August 1973. 11. Gutchko, M. H., Microcapsules and Microencapsulation Techniques. Noyes Data Corporation, Park Ridge...necesaryv and identify by block number) * MAXILLOFACIAL PROSTHESES; PROSTHETIC MATERIALS: MICROCAPSULES : * SOFT FILLERS; ELASTOMER COMPOSITES 2L

Effect of MUF/Epoxy Microcapsules on Mechanical Properties and Fractography of Epoxy Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ni, Zhuo; Lin, Yuhao; Du, Xuexiao

2017-12-01

Melamine-urea-formaldehyde (MUF) microcapsules were synthesized, morphology, shell thickness, average diameter and interface morphology were studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The spherical MUF microcapsules are size normal distribution without adhesion and accumulation, being compact, rough and uneven with a thickness of 3.2μm and a core contents is approximate 70%. A latent imidazoleas the curing agent for a cross-linking chemical reaction for cracking repairing. A good dispersion of MUF microcapsules and a good interfacial bonding are obtained. Effects of MUF microcapsule size and content on bending property and dynamic mechanical propertywere investigated. Both bending strength and storage modulus of the composite are considerably reduced with an increasing addition of the microcapsules whereas the glass transition temperatures are almost not influenced. Significant toughening effects of MUF microcapsules on the epoxy composites are observed at the conditions of different content and size of microcapsule especially at low microcapsule contents and small microcapsule sizes.

The core-double-shell microcapsules flame retardant: Synthesis and its application for polyvinyl chloride composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Bin; Jiang, Yujie; Han, Jian

2017-12-01

The core-double-shell microcapsules flame retardant has been regarded as a promising additive for improving the fire safety of PVC. In this article, melamine-formaldehyde resin (MF)/silicon dioxide (SiO2)/zinc hydroxystannate (ZHS) microcapsule was prepared. The effect of synthetic parameters (such as pH, agitation speed, reaction time and reaction temperature) on the morphologies and sizes of the SiO2/ZHS microcapsules were investigated in details. MF/SiO2/ZHS microcapsule was introduced into PVC to prepare biofunctional composites with excellent fire resistance and smoke suppression. The flammability of PVC composites was characterized by limiting oxygen index (LOI), smoke density (SDR), cone calorimeter test. The results showed that the sample containing 16.4% MF/SiO2/ZHS microcapsule (the mass ratio of MF:SiO2:ZHS = 2.5:2:8) achieved the maximal LOI value of 35.6%, minimal SDR value of 21.2%, and significantly decreased the peak heat release rate from 179.7 kW/m2 of neat PVC to 108.3 kW/m2. The thermal behaviors of PVC composites and the morphologies of residues were characterized.

Surface modified alginate microcapsules for 3D cell culture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yi-Wen; Kuo, Chiung Wen; Chueh, Di-Yen; Chen, Peilin

2016-06-01

Culture as three dimensional cell aggregates or spheroids can offer an ideal platform for tissue engineering applications and for pharmaceutical screening. Such 3D culture models, however, may suffer from the problems such as immune response and ineffective and cumbersome culture. This paper describes a simple method for producing microcapsules with alginate cores and a thin shell of poly(L-lysine)-graft-poly(ethylene glycol) (PLL-g-PEG) to encapsulate mouse induced pluripotent stem (miPS) cells, generating a non-fouling surface as an effective immunoisolation barrier. We demonstrated the trapping of the alginate microcapsules in a microwell array for the continuous observation and culture of a large number of encapsulated miPS cells in parallel. miPS cells cultured in the microcapsules survived well and proliferated to form a single cell aggregate. Droplet formation of monodisperse microcapsules with controlled size combined with flow cytometry provided an efficient way to quantitatively analyze the growth of encapsulated cells in a high-throughput manner. The simple and cost-effective coating technique employed to produce the core-shell microcapsules could be used in the emerging field of cell therapy. The microwell array would provide a convenient, user friendly and high-throughput platform for long-term cell culture and monitoring.

Composite Materials for Maxillofacial Prostheses.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-11-01

1(AXILLOFACIAL PROSTHESES; PROSTHETIC MATERIALS: MICROCAPSULES : SOFT FILLERS; ELASTOMER COMPOSITES *ASTRAC7 lCofIflU Ir F*vsda Side It neceOaeen anud...composite systems are elastomeric-shelled, liquid-filled microcapsules . Experiments continued on the interfacial polymerization process, with spherical...sealed, capsules achieved. The diamine bath has been E] improved and an automatic system has been developed for producing the microcapsules . The one

Encapsulation performance of layer-by-layer microcapsules for proteins.

PubMed

De Temmerman, Marie-Luce; Demeester, Jo; De Vos, Filip; De Smedt, Stefaan C

2011-04-11

This study reports on the encapsulation efficiency of proteins in dextran sulfate/poly-L-arginine-based microcapsules, fabricated via layer-by-layer assembly (LbL). For this purpose, radiolabeled proteins are entrapped in CaCO(3) microparticles, followed by LbL coating of the CaCO(3) cores and subsequent dissolving of the CaCO(3) using EDTA. To allow to improve protein encapsulation in LbL microcapsules, we studied all steps in the preparation of the microcapsules where loss of protein load might occur. The encapsulation efficiency of proteins in LbL microcapsules turns out to be strongly dependent on both the charge and molecular weight of the protein as well as on the number of polyelectrolyte bilayers the microcapsules consist of.

Electrosprayed Multi-Core Alginate Microcapsules as Novel Self-Healing Containers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hia, Iee Lee; Pasbakhsh, Pooria; Chan, Eng-Seng; Chai, Siang-Piao

2016-10-01

Alginate microcapsules containing epoxy resin were developed through electrospraying method and embedded into epoxy matrix to produce a capsule-based self-healing composite system. These formaldehyde free alginate/epoxy microcapsules were characterized via light microscope, field emission scanning electron microscope, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Results showed that epoxy resin was successfully encapsulated within alginate matrix to form porous (multi-core) microcapsules with pore size ranged from 5-100 μm. The microcapsules had an average size of 320 ± 20 μm with decomposition temperature at 220 °C. The loading capacity of these capsules was estimated to be 79%. Under in situ healing test, impact specimens showed healing efficiency as high as 86% and the ability to heal up to 3 times due to the multi-core capsule structure and the high impact energy test that triggered the released of epoxy especially in the second and third healings. TDCB specimens showed one-time healing only with the highest healing efficiency of 76%. The single healing event was attributed by the constant crack propagation rate of TDCB fracture test. For the first time, a cost effective, environmentally benign and sustainable capsule-based self-healing system with multiple healing capabilities and high healing performance was developed.

Electrosprayed Multi-Core Alginate Microcapsules as Novel Self-Healing Containers.

PubMed

Hia, Iee Lee; Pasbakhsh, Pooria; Chan, Eng-Seng; Chai, Siang-Piao

2016-10-03

Alginate microcapsules containing epoxy resin were developed through electrospraying method and embedded into epoxy matrix to produce a capsule-based self-healing composite system. These formaldehyde free alginate/epoxy microcapsules were characterized via light microscope, field emission scanning electron microscope, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Results showed that epoxy resin was successfully encapsulated within alginate matrix to form porous (multi-core) microcapsules with pore size ranged from 5-100 μm. The microcapsules had an average size of 320 ± 20 μm with decomposition temperature at 220 °C. The loading capacity of these capsules was estimated to be 79%. Under in situ healing test, impact specimens showed healing efficiency as high as 86% and the ability to heal up to 3 times due to the multi-core capsule structure and the high impact energy test that triggered the released of epoxy especially in the second and third healings. TDCB specimens showed one-time healing only with the highest healing efficiency of 76%. The single healing event was attributed by the constant crack propagation rate of TDCB fracture test. For the first time, a cost effective, environmentally benign and sustainable capsule-based self-healing system with multiple healing capabilities and high healing performance was developed.

Electrosprayed Multi-Core Alginate Microcapsules as Novel Self-Healing Containers

PubMed Central

Hia, Iee Lee; Pasbakhsh, Pooria; Chan, Eng-Seng; Chai, Siang-Piao

2016-01-01

Alginate microcapsules containing epoxy resin were developed through electrospraying method and embedded into epoxy matrix to produce a capsule-based self-healing composite system. These formaldehyde free alginate/epoxy microcapsules were characterized via light microscope, field emission scanning electron microscope, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Results showed that epoxy resin was successfully encapsulated within alginate matrix to form porous (multi-core) microcapsules with pore size ranged from 5–100 μm. The microcapsules had an average size of 320 ± 20 μm with decomposition temperature at 220 °C. The loading capacity of these capsules was estimated to be 79%. Under in situ healing test, impact specimens showed healing efficiency as high as 86% and the ability to heal up to 3 times due to the multi-core capsule structure and the high impact energy test that triggered the released of epoxy especially in the second and third healings. TDCB specimens showed one-time healing only with the highest healing efficiency of 76%. The single healing event was attributed by the constant crack propagation rate of TDCB fracture test. For the first time, a cost effective, environmentally benign and sustainable capsule-based self-healing system with multiple healing capabilities and high healing performance was developed. PMID:27694922

Repellent activity screening of 11 kinds of essential oils against Aedes albopictus Skuse: microcapsule preparation of Herba Schizonepetae oil and repellent bioassay on hand skin.

PubMed

Wu, H; Fu, C C; Yu, D D; Feng, J T; Zhang, X; Ma, Z Q

2013-08-01

The main ingredient of most repellents on the market is DEET, an effective compound that has the disadvantages of toxic reactions as well as damaging effects on plastic and synthetic fabric. DEET alternatives are urgently needed. The repellent activities of 11 kinds of essential oils were tested against Aedes albopictus Skuse by a Y-tube olfactometer. Using essential oils with high repellent activity as core material and gelatin and gum arabic as wall materials, we prepared microcapsules of essential oils and optimized the preparation process. The microcapsule formulation was then subjected to repellent bioassay on hand skin. when the dosage of essential oils was 5 µL, the cinnamon oil repellent rate was 87.5% within 10 min and the Herba Schizonepetae oil (HSO) repellent rate was 98.0% within 3 min. Up to 1.5% (w/v) gelatin and 1.5% (w/v) gum arabic (as wall materials), and HSO (as core material) were used to form microcapsules with a 1:1 ratio of core material to wall material. The ointment preparations effectively protected hand skin exposed to a high-density A. albopictus Skuse rearing cage for 4-5 h. The HSO microcapsule repellent has broad application and development prospects.

Externally triggered microcapsules

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mosier, Benjamin (Inventor); Morrison, Dennis R. (Inventor)

2011-01-01

Disclosed are microcapsules comprising a polymer shell enclosing one or more immiscible liquid phases in which a drug or drug precursor are contained in a liquid phase. The microparticles also contain magnetic particles that can be heated by application of an external magnetic field and thus heated to a predetermined Curie temperature. Heating of the particles melts the polymer shell and releases the drug without causing heating of surrounding tissues.

Research and Development in Preventive Dentistry.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-12-01

Characterization 16 B. Core Material Preparation 18 C. Microencapsulation 20 D. Characterization of Microcapsules 22 1. Size Distribution 22 2. Assays 22 3... microencapsulated with a biodegradable polymer, poly-L(-)- lactide, using a fluidized bed coating technique. A series of microcapsule batches with different...lbs/hr. Material was less than 15 iim (99%), and most of the lidocaine was in the 1 micron range, * C. MICROENCAPSULATION Lidocaine microcapsules were

Oil core microcapsules by inverse gelation technique.

PubMed

Martins, Evandro; Renard, Denis; Davy, Joëlle; Marquis, Mélanie; Poncelet, Denis

2015-01-01

A promising technique for oil encapsulation in Ca-alginate capsules by inverse gelation was proposed by Abang et al. This method consists of emulsifying calcium chloride solution in oil and then adding it dropwise in an alginate solution to produce Ca-alginate capsules. Spherical capsules with diameters around 3 mm were produced by this technique, however the production of smaller capsules was not demonstrated. The objective of this study is to propose a new method of oil encapsulation in a Ca-alginate membrane by inverse gelation. The optimisation of the method leads to microcapsules with diameters around 500 μm. In a search of microcapsules with improved diffusion characteristics, the size reduction is an essential factor to broaden the applications in food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals areas. This work contributes to a better understanding of the inverse gelation technique and allows the production of microcapsules with a well-defined shell-core structure.

Self-immunity microcapsules for corrosion protection of steel bar in reinforced concrete

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yanshuai; Fang, Guohao; Ding, Weijian; Han, Ningxu; Xing, Feng; Dong, Biqin

2015-12-01

A novel microcapsule-based self-immunity system for reinforced concrete is proposed. Its feasibility for hindering the corrosion of steel rebar by means of lifting the threshold value of [Cl-]/[OH-] is discussed. Precisely controlled release behavior enables corrosion protection in the case of depassivation. The release process is characterized over a designated range of pH values, and its release characteristics of the microcapsules, triggered by decreasing pH value, are captured by observing that the core crystals are released when exposed to a signal (stimulus). The aim of corrosion protection of steel bar is achieved through the constantly-stabilized passive film, and its stability is promoted using continuous calcium hydroxide released from the microcapsule, restoring alkaline conditions. The test results exhibited that the release process of the microcapsules is a function of time. Moreover, the release rate of core materials could interact with environmental pH value, in which the release rate is found to increase remarkably with decreasing pH value, but is inhibited by high pH levels.

Self-immunity microcapsules for corrosion protection of steel bar in reinforced concrete.

PubMed

Wang, Yanshuai; Fang, Guohao; Ding, Weijian; Han, Ningxu; Xing, Feng; Dong, Biqin

2015-12-17

A novel microcapsule-based self-immunity system for reinforced concrete is proposed. Its feasibility for hindering the corrosion of steel rebar by means of lifting the threshold value of [Cl(-)]/[OH(-)] is discussed. Precisely controlled release behavior enables corrosion protection in the case of depassivation. The release process is characterized over a designated range of pH values, and its release characteristics of the microcapsules, triggered by decreasing pH value, are captured by observing that the core crystals are released when exposed to a signal (stimulus). The aim of corrosion protection of steel bar is achieved through the constantly-stabilized passive film, and its stability is promoted using continuous calcium hydroxide released from the microcapsule, restoring alkaline conditions. The test results exhibited that the release process of the microcapsules is a function of time. Moreover, the release rate of core materials could interact with environmental pH value, in which the release rate is found to increase remarkably with decreasing pH value, but is inhibited by high pH levels.

Study of Reactive Materials for Development of new Protective Clothing Concepts

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-10-01

G, and V agents and must not unduly change the fabric permeability. Microencapsulation , the technique of encasing extremely small droplets or...preparing and evaluating decontaminating microcapsules that contain strong-base alkali- metal hydroxides, s-Im-bis(N,chloro-2,4,6-trichlorophenyl) urea...and various amines as the core phase. We are now identifying and developing microcapsule wall materials that will be stable to the highly basic core

Avidin/PSS membrane microcapsules with biotin-binding activity.

PubMed

Endo, Yoshihiro; Sato, Katsuhiko; Sugimoto, Kentaro; Anzai, Jun-ichi

2011-08-15

Polyelectrolyte microcapsules with avidin-poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) membrane were prepared by a layer-by-layer deposition technique. The uptake and release of biotin-labeled fluorescein (b-FITC) as well as immobilization of biotin-labeled glucose oxidase (b-GOx) to the microcapsule were studied. The polyelectrolyte microcapsules were prepared by coating the surface of calcium carbonate (CaCO(3)) microparticles with an avidin/PSS multilayer membrane, followed by dissolution of CaCO(3) core in an ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid solution. Inner and outer poly(allylamine)/PSS films were required to isolate the microcapsules, whereas microcapsules could not be formed without the support. The uptake of b-FITC into the microcapsule was highly enhanced through a strong binding of b-FITC to avidin as compared with the uptake of biotin-free FITC. Release of b-FITC from the microcapsule was accelerated upon addition of biotin due to a competitive binding of the added biotin to the binding site of avidin. Similarly, the surface of microcapsule was modified with b-GOx with retaining its catalytic activity. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Enhancement of Antiviral Agents through the Use of Controlled-Release Technology

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-03-11

Microencapsulated Poly(I*C) 10 B. Comparison of the Subcutaneous and Intraperltoneal Routes of Poly(I*C) Microcapsule Administration 11 C... microencapsulation solvents and techniques in order to improve the core loading and surface morphology of the JE vaccine microcapsules . After...Days 0, 14, and 42, d3.0 mg unencapsulated JE vaccine, 3.0 mg microencapsulated JE vaccine prepared with 50:50 DL-PLG excipient ( microcapsule Batch

Next-Generation Theranostic Agents Based on Polyelectrolyte Microcapsules Encoded with Semiconductor Nanocrystals: Development and Functional Characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nifontova, Galina; Zvaigzne, Maria; Baryshnikova, Maria; Korostylev, Evgeny; Ramos-Gomes, Fernanda; Alves, Frauke; Nabiev, Igor; Sukhanova, Alyona

2018-01-01

Fabrication of polyelectrolyte microcapsules and their use as carriers of drugs, fluorescent labels, and metal nanoparticles is a promising approach to designing theranostic agents. Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) are characterized by extremely high brightness and photostability that make them attractive fluorescent labels for visualization of intracellular penetration and delivery of such microcapsules. Here, we describe an approach to design, fabricate, and characterize physico-chemical and functional properties of polyelectrolyte microcapsules encoded with water-solubilized and stabilized with three-functional polyethylene glycol derivatives core/shell QDs. Developed microcapsules were characterized by dynamic light scattering, electrophoretic mobility, scanning electronic microscopy, and fluorescence and confocal microscopy approaches, providing exact data on their size distribution, surface charge, morphological, and optical characteristics. The fluorescence lifetimes of the QD-encoded microcapsules were also measured, and their dependence on time after preparation of the microcapsules was evaluated. The optimal content of QDs used for encoding procedure providing the optimal fluorescence properties of the encoded microcapsules was determined. Finally, the intracellular microcapsule uptake by murine macrophages was demonstrated, thus confirming the possibility of efficient use of developed system for live cell imaging and visualization of microcapsule transportation and delivery within the living cells.

Microcapsules with a pH responsive polymer: influence of the encapsulated oil on the capsule morphology.

PubMed

Wagdare, Nagesh A; Marcelis, Antonius T M; Boom, Remko M; van Rijn, Cees J M

2011-11-01

Microcapsules were prepared by microsieve membrane cross flow emulsification of Eudragit FS 30D/dichloromethane/edible oil mixtures in water, and subsequent phase separation induced by extraction of the dichloromethane through an aqueous phase. For long-chain triglycerides and jojoba oil, core-shell particles were obtained with the oil as core, surrounded by a shell of Eudragit. Medium chain triglyceride (MCT oil) was encapsulated as relatively small droplets in the Eudragit matrix. The morphology of the formed capsules was investigated with optical and SEM microscopy. Extraction of the oil from the core-shell capsules with hexane resulted in hollow Eudragit capsules with porous shells. It was shown that the differences are related to the compatibility of the oils with the shell-forming Eudragit. An oil with poor compatibility yields microcapsules with a dense Eudragit shell on a single oil droplet as the core; oils having better compatibility yield porous Eudragit spheres with several oil droplets trapped inside. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Technology Demonstration of Self-Healing Coatings for In-Place Management of Lead-Based Paint Hazards

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-12-01

Microscopic capsules have been developed on the order of 50 - 150 microns in size. These microcapsules can contain a small quantity of liquid, and they...will release their contents when broken. Microcapsules containing paint repair and lead dust suppression compounds can be mixed into commercially...available latex coatings and used to overcoat existing lead-based paint (LBP) on older buildings. If such an overcoating is damaged, the microcapsules

[Preparation of polyelectrolyte microcapsules contained gold nanoparticles].

PubMed

Sun, Ya-jie; Zhu, Jia-bi; Zheng, Chun-li

2010-03-01

In this work, polyelectrolyte microcapsules containing gold nanoparticles were prepared via layer by layer assembly. Gold nanoparticles and poly (allyamine hydrochloride) (PAH) were coated on the CaCO3 microparticles. And then EDTA was used to remove the CaCO3 core. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to characterize the surface of microcapsules. SEM images indicate that the microcapsules and the polyelectrolyte multilayer were deposited on the surface of CaCO3 microparticles. FITC-bovine serum albumin (FITC-BSA, 2 mg) was incorporated in the CaCO3 microparticles by co-precipitation. Fluorescence microscopy was used to observe the fluorescence intensity of microcapsules. The encapsulation efficiency was (34.31 +/- 2.44) %. The drug loading was (43.75 +/- 3.12) mg g(-1).

Process for Encapsulating Protein Crystals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R.; Mosier, Benjamin

2003-01-01

A process for growing protein crystals encapsulated within membranes has been invented. This process begins with the encapsulation of a nearly saturated aqueous protein solution inside semipermeable membranes to form microcapsules. The encapsulation is effected by use of special formulations of a dissolved protein and a surfactant in an aqueous first liquid phase, which is placed into contact with a second, immiscible liquid phase that contains one or more polymers that are insoluble in the first phase. The second phase becomes formed into the semipermeable membranes that surround microglobules of the first phase, thereby forming the microcapsules. Once formed, the microcapsules are then dehydrated osmotically by exposure to a concentrated salt or polymer solution. The dehydration forms supersaturated solutions inside the microcapsules, thereby enabling nucleation and growth of protein crystals inside the microcapsules. By suitable formulation of the polymer or salt solution and of other physical and chemical parameters, one can control the rate of transport of water out of the microcapsules through the membranes and thereby create physicochemical conditions that favor the growth, within each microcapsule, of one or a few large crystals suitable for analysis by x-ray diffraction. The membrane polymer can be formulated to consist of low-molecular-weight molecules that do not interfere with the x-ray diffraction analysis of the encapsulated crystals. During dehydration, an electrostatic field can be applied to exert additional control over the rate of dehydration. This protein-crystal-encapsulation process is expected to constitute the basis of protein-growth experiments to be performed on the space shuttle and the International Space Station. As envisioned, the experiments would involve the exposure of immiscible liquids to each other in sequences of steps under microgravitational conditions. The experiments are expected to contribute to knowledge of the precise conditions under which protein crystals form. By enhancing the ability to grow crystals suitable for x-ray diffraction analysis, this knowledge can be expected to benefit not only the space program but also medicine and the pharmaceutical industry.

Polymeric microcapsules with switchable mechanical properties for self-healing concrete: synthesis, characterisation and proof of concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kanellopoulos, A.; Giannaros, P.; Palmer, D.; Kerr, A.; Al-Tabbaa, A.

2017-04-01

Microcapsules, with sodium silicate solution as core, were produced using complex coacervation in a double, oil-in-water-in oil, emulsion system. The shell material was a gelatin-acacia gum crosslinked coacervate and the produced microcapsules had diameters ranging from 300 to 700 μm. The shell material designed with switchable mechanical properties. When it is hydrated exhibits soft and ‘rubbery’ behaviour and, when dried, transitions to a stiff and ‘glassy’ material. The microcapsules survived drying and rehydrating cycles and preserved their structural integrity when exposed to highly alkaline solutions that mimic the pH environment of concrete. Microscopy revealed that the shell thickness of the microcapsules varies across their perimeter from 5 to 20 μm. Thermal analysis showed that the produced microcapsules were very stable up to 190 °C. Proof of concept investigation has demonstrated that the microcapsules successfully survive and function when exposed to a cement-based matrix. Observations showed that the microcapsules survive mixing with cement and rupture successfully upon crack formation releasing the encapsulated sodium silicate solution.

Development and evaluation of novel flavour microcapsules containing vanilla oil using complex coacervation approach.

PubMed

Yang, Ziming; Peng, Zheng; Li, Jihua; Li, Sidong; Kong, Lingxue; Li, Puwang; Wang, Qinghuang

2014-02-15

A novel flavour microcapsule containing vanilla oil (VO) was developed using complex coacervation approach, aimed to control release of VO and enhance its thermostability for spice application in food industry. Viscosity of chitosan (CS) and VO/CS ratio were optimised for fabrication of microcapsules. The flavour microcapsules were evaluated by scanning electron micrograph (SEM), laser confocal microscopy (LSCM), particle size analyser, infrared spectrometer (FT-IR), thermal analysis and controlled-release analysis. The microcapsules were in spherical with good dispersibility when moderate viscosity CS was used. 94.2% of encapsulation efficiency was achieved in VO/CS ratio of 2:1. The FT-IR study proved chemical cross-linking reaction occurred between genipin and chitosan, but a physical interaction between CS and VO. A core-shell structure of microcapsule was confirmed by LSCM, which was beneficial to improve the thermostability of VO in microcapsule. Moreover, VO could be remained about 60% in the microcapsules after release for 30 days, which demonstrated the flavour microcapsules had good potential to serve as a high quality food spice with long residual action and high thermostability. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Nanostructured polysaccharidic microcapsules for intracellular release of cisplatin.

PubMed

Vergaro, Viviana; Papadia, Paride; Petrini, Paola; Fanizzi, Francesco Paolo; De Pascali, Sandra A; Baldassarre, Francesca; Pastorino, Laura; Ciccarella, Giuseppe

2017-06-01

Carbohydrate polimeric microcapsules were assembled using a LbL approach onto a CaCO 3 core. The microcapsules were used to delivery the anticancer drug cisplatin into HeLa and MCF-7 cancer cell lines. Drug encapsulation, measured by ICP spectroscopy, was around 50% of the charging solution. Fluorimetric measurements showed an efficient cellular uptake of polysacchardic microcapsules in both cell lines. The drug-loaded capsules demonstrated a better efficiency against cell viability than the free drug. Specifically, the amount of platinum reaching genomic DNA was measured, showing that encapsulation improves the nuclear delivery of the drug for both cell lines. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Encapsulation of grape seed extract in polylactide microcapsules for sustained bioactivity and time-dependent release in dental material applications.

PubMed

Yourdkhani, Mostafa; Leme-Kraus, Ariene Arcas; Aydin, Berdan; Bedran-Russo, Ana Karina; White, Scott R

2017-06-01

To sustain the bioactivity of proanthocyanidins-rich plant-derived extracts via encapsulation within biodegradable polymer microcapsules. Polylactide microcapsules containing grape seed extract (GSE) were manufactured using a combination of double emulsion and solvent evaporation techniques. Microcapsule morphology, size distribution, and cross-section were examined via scanning electron microscopy. UV-vis measurements were carried out to evaluate the core loading and encapsulation efficiency of microcapsules. The bioactivity of extracts was evaluated after extraction from capsules via solvent partitioning one week or one year post-encapsulation process. Fifteen human molars were cut into 7mm×1.7mm×0.5mm thick mid-coronal dentin beams, demineralized, and treated with either encapsulated GSE, pristine GSE, or left untreated. The elastic modulus of dentin specimens was measured based on three-point bending experiments as an indirect assessment of the bioactivity of grape seed extracts. The effects of the encapsulation process and storage time on the bioactivity of extracts were analyzed. Polynuclear microcapsules with average diameter of 1.38μm and core loading of up to 38wt% were successfully manufactured. There were no statistically significant differences in the mean fold increase of elastic modulus values among the samples treated with encapsulated or pristine GSE (p=0.333), or the storage time (one week versus one year storage at room temperature, p=0.967). Polynuclear microcapsules containing proanthocyanidins-rich plant-derived extracts were prepared. The bioactivity of extracts was preserved after microencapsulation. Copyright © 2017 The Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Synthesis of Elongated Microcapsules

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Wenyan; Buhrow, Jerry; Calle, Luz M.

2011-01-01

One of the factors that influence the effectiveness of self-healing in functional materials is the amount of liquid healing agents that can be delivered to the damaged area. The use of hollow tubes or fibers and the more sophisticated micro-vascular networks has been proposed as a way to increase the amount of healing agents that can be released when damage is inflicted. Although these systems might be effective in some specific applications, they are not practical for coatings applications. One possible practical way to increase the healing efficiency is to use microcapsules with high-aspect-ratios, or elongated microcapsules. It is understood that elongated microcapsules will be more efficient because they can release more healing agent than a spherical microcapsule when a crack is initiated in the coating. Although the potential advantage of using elongated microcapsules for self healing applications is clear, it is very difficult to make elongated microcapsules from an emulsion system because spherical microcapsules are normally formed due to the interfacial tension between the dispersed phase and the continuous phase. This paper describes the two methods that have been developed by the authors to synthesize elongated microcapsules. The first method involves the use of an emulsion with intermediate stability and the second involves the application of mechanical shear conditions to the emulsion.

Microcapsules loaded with the probiotic Lactobacillus paracasei BGP-1 produced by co-extrusion technology using alginate/shellac as wall material: Characterization and evaluation of drying processes.

PubMed

Silva, Marluci P; Tulini, Fabricio L; Ribas, Marcela M; Penning, Manfred; Fávaro-Trindade, Carmen S; Poncelet, Denis

2016-11-01

Microcapsules containing Lactobacillus paracasei BGP-1 were produced by co-extrusion technology using alginate and alginate-shellac blend as wall materials. Sunflower oil and coconut fat were used as vehicles to incorporate BGP-1 into the microcapsules. The microcapsules were evaluated with regard the particle size, morphology, water activity and survival of probiotics after 60days of storage at room temperature. Fluidized bed and lyophilization were used to dry the microcapsules and the effect of these processes on probiotic viability was also evaluated. Next, dried microcapsules were exposed to simulated gastrointestinal fluids to verify the survival of BGP-1. Microcapsules dried by fluidized bed had spherical shape and robust structures, whereas lyophilized microcapsules had porous and fragile structures. Dried microcapsules presented a medium size of 0.71-0.86mm and a w ranging from 0.14 to 0.36, depending on the drying process. When comparing the effects of drying processes on BGP-1 viability, the fluidized bed was less aggressive than lyophilization. The alginate-shellac blend combined with coconut fat as core effectively protected the encapsulated probiotic under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Thus, the production of microcapsules by co-extrusion followed by drying using the fluidized bed is a promising strategy for protection of probiotic cells. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Investigation of the Self-Healing Behaviors of Microcapsules/Bitumen Composites by a Repetitive Direct Tension Test

PubMed Central

Su, Jun-Feng; Yang, Peng; Wang, Ying-Yuan; Han, Shan; Han, Ning-Xu; Li, Wei

2016-01-01

The aim of this work was to evaluate the self-healing behaviors of bitumen using microcapsules containing rejuvenator by a modified fracture healing–refracture method through a repetitive tension test. Microcapsules had mean size values of 10, 20 and 30 μm with a same core/shell ratio of 1/1. Various microcapsules/bitumen samples were fabricated with microcapsule contents of 1.0, 3.0 and 5.0 wt. %, respectively. Tension strength values of microcapsules/bitumen samples were measured by a reparative fracture-healing process under different temperatures. It was found that these samples had tensile strength values larger than the data of pure bitumen samples under the same conditions after the four tensile fracture-healing cycles. Fracture morphology investigation and mechanism analysis indicated that the self-healing process was a process consisting of microcapsules being broken, penetrated and diffused. Moreover, the crack healing of bitumen can be considered as a viscosity driven process. The self-healing ability partly repaired the damage of bitumen during service life by comparing the properties of virgin and rejuvenated bitumen. PMID:28773722

High-Throughput Platform for Synthesis of Melamine-Formaldehyde Microcapsules.

PubMed

Çakir, Seda; Bauters, Erwin; Rivero, Guadalupe; Parasote, Tom; Paul, Johan; Du Prez, Filip E

2017-07-10

The synthesis of microcapsules via in situ polymerization is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process, where many composition and process factors affect the microcapsule formation and its morphology. Herein, we report a novel combinatorial technique for the preparation of melamine-formaldehyde microcapsules, using a custom-made and automated high-throughput platform (HTP). After performing validation experiments for ensuring the accuracy and reproducibility of the novel platform, a design of experiment study was performed. The influence of different encapsulation parameters was investigated, such as the effect of the surfactant, surfactant type, surfactant concentration and core/shell ratio. As a result, this HTP-platform is suitable to be used for the synthesis of different types of microcapsules in an automated and controlled way, allowing the screening of different reaction parameters in a shorter time compared to the manual synthetic techniques.

Multicompartmental Microcapsules from Star Copolymer Micelles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Choi, Ikjun; Malak, Sidney T.; Xu, Weinan

2013-02-26

We present the layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly of amphiphilic heteroarm pH-sensitive star-shaped polystyrene-poly(2-pyridine) (PSnP2VPn) block copolymers to fabricate porous and multicompartmental microcapsules. Pyridine-containing star molecules forming a hydrophobic core/hydrophilic corona unimolecular micelle in acidic solution (pH 3) were alternately deposited with oppositely charged linear sulfonated polystyrene (PSS), yielding microcapsules with LbL shells containing hydrophobic micelles. The surface morphology and internal nanopore structure of the hollow microcapsules were comparatively investigated for shells formed from star polymers with a different numbers of arms (9 versus 22) and varied shell thickness (5, 8, and 11 bilayers). The successful integration of star unimers into themore » LbL shells was demonstrated by probing their buildup, surface segregation behavior, and porosity. The larger arm star copolymer (22 arms) with stretched conformation showed a higher increment in shell thickness due to the effective ionic complexation whereas a compact, uniform grainy morphology was observed regardless of the number of deposition cycles and arm numbers. Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) revealed that microcapsules with hydrophobic domains showed different fractal properties depending upon the number of bilayers with a surface fractal morphology observed for the thinnest shells and a mass fractal morphology for the completed shells formed with the larger number of bilayers. Moreover, SANS provides support for the presence of relatively large pores (about 25 nm across) for the thinnest shells as suggested from permeability experiments. The formation of robust microcapsules with nanoporous shells composed of a hydrophilic polyelectrolyte with a densely packed hydrophobic core based on star amphiphiles represents an intriguing and novel case of compartmentalized microcapsules with an ability to simultaneously store different hydrophilic, charged, and hydrophobic components within shells.« less

Multicompartmental Microcapsules with Orthogonal Programmable Two-Way Sequencing of Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Cargo Release.

PubMed

Xu, Weinan; Ledin, Petr A; Iatridi, Zacharoula; Tsitsilianis, Constantinos; Tsukruk, Vladimir V

2016-04-11

Multicompartmental responsive microstructures with the capability for the pre-programmed sequential release of multiple target molecules of opposite solubility (hydrophobic and hydrophilic) in a controlled manner have been fabricated. Star block copolymers with dual-responsive blocks (temperature for poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) chains and pH for poly(acrylic acid) and poly(2-vinylpyridine) arms) and unimolecular micellar structures serve as nanocarriers for hydrophobic molecules in the microcapsule shell. The interior of the microcapsule can be loaded with water-soluble hydrophilic macromolecules. For these dual-loaded microcapsules, a programmable and sequential release of hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules from the shell and core, respectively, can be triggered independently by temperature and pH variations. These stimuli affect the hydrophobicity and chain conformation of the star block copolymers to initiate out-of-shell release (elevated temperature), or change the overall star conformation and interlayer interactions to trigger increased permeability of the shell and out-of-core release (pH). Reversing stimulus order completely alters the release process. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Preparation and characterization of Phase change material microcapsules by a core-shell-like emulsion polymerization method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Li-ming; Pei, Guang-ling

2015-07-01

Phase change material microcapsules (MicroPCMs) were synthesized by a coreshell-like emulsion polymerization method. Styrene and methylacrylic acid copolymer (PS- MAA) was used as a wall material, and paraffin was used as a core material in order to prepare spherical, high resistance and high enthalpy MicroPCMs. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), laser particle size analyzer, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetry (TG) and Differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC) were employed to characterize the MicroPCMs. The results indicated that the average particle size of MicroPCMs was 42.29 μm, and the content of paraffin within microcapsules was 57.6%. The melting temperature and crystallization temperature were 30.7°C and 25.2°C.The melting enthalpy and crystallization enthalpy were -84.1 J/g and 91.3 J/g, respectively.

Magnetic polymer microcapsules loaded with Nile Red fluorescent dye

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bartel, Marta; Wysocka, Barbara; Krug, Pamela; Kępińska, Daria; Kijewska, Krystyna; Blanchard, Gary J.; Kaczyńska, Katarzyna; Lubelska, Katarzyna; Wiktorska, Katarzyna; Głowala, Paulina; Wilczek, Marcin; Pisarek, Marcin; Szczytko, Jacek; Twardowski, Andrzej; Mazur, Maciej

2018-04-01

Fabrication of multifunctional smart vehicles for drug delivery is a fascinating challenge of multidisciplinary research at the crossroads of materials science, physics and biology. We demonstrate a prototypical microcapsule system that is capable of encapsulating hydrophobic molecules and at the same time reveals magnetic properties. The microcapsules are prepared using a templated synthesis approach where the molecules to be encapsulated (Nile Red) are present in the organic droplets that are suspended in the polymerization solution which also contains magnetic nanoparticles. The polymer (polypyrrole) grows on the surface of organic droplets encapsulating the fluorescent dye in the core of the formed microcapsule which incorporates the nanoparticles into its wall. For characterization of the resulting structures a range of complementary physicochemical methodology is used including optical and electron microscopy, magnetometry, 1H NMR and spectroscopy in the visible and X-ray spectral ranges. Moreover, the microcapsules have been examined in biological environment in in vitro and in vivo studies.

Robust synthesis of epoxy resin-filled microcapsules for application to self-healing materials.

PubMed

Bolimowski, Patryk A; Bond, Ian P; Wass, Duncan F

2016-02-28

Mechanically and thermally robust microcapsules containing diglycidyl ether bisphenol A-based epoxy resin and a high-boiling-point organic solvent were synthesized in high yield using in situ polymerization of urea and formaldehyde in an oil-in-water emulsion. Microcapsules were characterized in terms of their size and size distribution, shell surface morphology and thermal resistance to the curing cycles of commercially used epoxy polymers. The size distribution of the capsules and characteristics such as shell thickness can be controlled by the specific parameters of microencapsulation, including concentrations of reagents, stirrer speed and sonication. Selected microcapsules, and separated core and shell materials, were analysed using thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. It is demonstrated that capsules lose minimal 2.5 wt% at temperatures no higher than 120°C. These microcapsules can be applied to self-healing carbon fibre composite structural materials, with preliminary results showing promising performance. © 2016 The Author(s).

Preparation of poly(methyl methacrylate) microcapsules by in situ polymerization on the surface of calcium carbonate particles.

PubMed

Sato, Katsuhiko; Nakajima, Tatsuya; Anzai, Jun-ichi

2012-12-01

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) microcapsules were prepared by the in situ polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide on the surface of calcium carbonate (CaCO(3)) particles, followed by the dissolution of the CaCO(3) core in ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid solution. The microcapsules were characterized using fluorescence microscopy, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The average sizes of the CaCO(3) particles and PMMA capsules were 3.8±0.6 and 4.0±0.6 μm, respectively. A copolymer consisting of MMA and rhodamine B-bearing MMA was also used to prepare microcapsules for fluorescent microscopy observations. Fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled bovine serum albumin was enclosed in the PMMA microcapsules and its release properties were studied. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Trace Organic Analysis of Microencapsulated Materials

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-11-01

chromatography Box-Behnken experimental design Microencapsulated pesticides Sur factants Emulsifiers Polymer shell/walls Microcapsule cores Fiber optic... microencapsulation field is given in Bibliography 10.1, (page 38), including references in microemulsions, microcapsules , polymeric/liposome delivery...CHEMICAL RESEARCH, r-i DEVELOPMENT . ENGINEERING CRDEC-CR-0S8-O CENTER (GC-TR-89-172-001 00 CD TRACE ORGANIC ANALYSIS OF MICROENCAPSULATED MATERIALS

Solvent exchange method: a novel microencapsulation technique using dual microdispensers.

PubMed

Yeo, Yoon; Chen, Alvin U; Basaran, Osman A; Park, Kinam

2004-08-01

A new microencapsulation method called the "solvent exchange method" was developed using a dual microdispenser system. The objective of this research is to demonstrate the new method and understand how the microcapsule size is controlled by different instrumental parameters. The solvent exchange method was carried out using a dual microdispenser system consisting of two ink-jet nozzles. Reservoir-type microcapsules were generated by collision of microdrops of an aqueous and a polymer solution and subsequent formation of polymer films at the interface between the two solutions. The prepared microcapsules were characterized by microscopic methods. The ink-jet nozzles produced drops of different sizes with high accuracy according to orifice size of a nozzle, flow rate of the jetted solutions, and forcing frequency of the piezoelectric transducers. In an individual microcapsule, an aqueous core was surrounded by a thin polymer membrane; thus, the size of the collected microcapsules was equivalent to that of single drops. The solvent exchange method based on a dual microdispenser system produces reservoir-type microcapsules in a homogeneous and predictable manner. Given the unique geometry of the microcapsules and mildness of the encapsulation process, this method is expected to provide a useful alternative to existing techniques in protein microencapsulation.

Ultrasonically synthesized organic liquid-filled chitosan microcapsules: part 2: characterization using AFM (atomic force microscopy) and combined AFM-confocal laser scanning fluorescence microscopy.

PubMed

Mettu, Srinivas; Ye, Qianyu; Zhou, Meifang; Dagastine, Raymond; Ashokkumar, Muthupandian

2018-04-25

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is used to measure the stiffness and Young's modulus of individual microcapsules that have a chitosan cross-linked shell encapsulating tetradecane. The oil filled microcapsules were prepared using a one pot synthesis via ultrasonic emulsification of tetradecane and crosslinking of the chitosan shell in aqueous solutions of acetic acid. The concentration of acetic acid in aqueous solutions of chitosan was varied from 0.2% to 25% v/v. The effect of acetic acid concentration and size of the individual microcapsules on the strength was probed. The deformations and forces required to rupture the microcapsules were also measured. Three dimensional deformations of microcapsules under large applied loads were obtained by the combination of Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy (LSCM) with Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). The stiffness, and hence the modulus, of the microcapsules was found to decrease with an increase in size with the average stiffness ranging from 82 to 111 mN m-1 and average Young's modulus ranging from 0.4 to 6.5 MPa. The forces required to rupture the microcapsules varied from 150 to 250 nN with deformations of the microcapsules up to 62 to 110% relative to their radius, respectively. Three dimensional images obtained using laser scanning confocal microscopy showed that the microcapsules retained their structure and shape after being subjected to large deformations and subsequent removal of the loads. Based on the above observations, the oil filled chitosan crosslinked microcapsules are an ideal choice for use in the food and pharmaceutical industries as they would be able to withstand the process conditions encountered.

Microcapsules with three orthogonal reactive sites

PubMed Central

Mason, Brian P.; Hira, Steven M.; Strouse, Geoffrey F.; McQuade, D. Tyler

2009-01-01

Polymeric microcapsules containing reactive sites on the shell surface and two orthogonally reactive polymers encapsulated within the interior are selectively labeled. The capsules provide three spatially separate and differentially reactive sites. Confocal fluorescence microscopy is used to characterize the distribution of labels. Polymers encapsulated are distributed homogeneously within the core and do not interact with the shell even when oppositely charged. PMID:19254010

Preparation of Microcapsules Containing β-Carotene with Thermo Sensitive Curdlan by Utilizing Reverse Dispersion

PubMed Central

Taguchi, Yoshinari; Ono, Fumiyasu; Tanaka, Masato

2013-01-01

We have tried to microencapsulate β-carotene with curdlan of a thermogelation type polysaccharide. Microcapsules were prepared by utilizing reverse dispersion, in which salada oil was the continuous phase (O’) and the curdlan water slurry (W) was the dispersed phase. β-carotene (O) as a core material was broken into fine oil droplets in the dispersed phase to form the (O/W) dispersion. The (O/W) dispersion was poured in the continuous phase (O’) and stirred to form the (O/W)/O’ dispersion at room temperature and then, temperature of the dispersion was raised to 80 °C to prepare curdlan-microcapusles containing β-carotene. In this microencapsulation process, the concentrations of curdlan and oil soluble surfactant and the impeller speed to form the (O/W)/O’ dispersion were mainly changed stepwise. We were able to prepare microcapsules by the microencapsulation method adopted here. The content of core material was increased with the curdlan concentration and decreased with the impeller speed and the oil soluble surfactant concentration. With the curdlan concentration, the drying rate of microcapsules was decreased and the retention ability for water was increased due to the stable preservation of β-carotene. PMID:24300565

Fabrication and Release Behavior of Microcapsules with Double-Layered Shell Containing Clove Oil for Antibacterial Applications.

PubMed

Chong, Yong-Bing; Zhang, He; Yue, Chee Yoon; Yang, Jinglei

2018-05-09

In this study, double-layer polyurethane/poly(urea-formaldehyde) (PU/PUF) shell microcapsules containing clove oil with antibacterial properties were successfully synthesized via in situ and interfacial polymerization reactions in an oil-in-water emulsion. The morphology, core-shell structure, and composition of the microcapsules were investigated systematically. Additionally, the release behaviors of microcapsules synthesized under different reaction parameters were studied. It was found that the release rate of clove oil can be controlled by tuning the amount of PU reactants and the length of PUF deposition time. The release profile fitted well against the Baker-Lonsdale model, which indicates diffusion as the primary release mechanism. Experimental results based on the ASTM E2315 time kill test revealed that the fabricated microcapsules have great antibacterial activities against the marine bacteria Vibrio coralliilyticus, Escherichia coli, Exiguobacterium aestuarii, and marine biofilm-forming bacteria isolated from the on-site contaminated samples, showing their great potential as an eco-friendly solution to replace existing toxic antifouling agent.

Assembly of multilayer microcapsules on CacO3 particles from biocompatible polysaccharides.

PubMed

Zhao, Qinghe; Mao, Zhengwei; Gao, Changyou; Shen, Jiacong

2006-01-01

Multilayer microcapsules were fabricated by layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly of natural polysaccharides onto CaCO3 particles, following with core removal. The micron-sized CaCO3 particles were synthesized by reaction between Ca(NO3)2 and Na2CO3 solutions in the existence of carboxylmethyl cellulose (CMC). The incorporated amount of CMC in the CaCO3 particles was found to be 5.3 wt% by thermogravimetric analysis. Two biocompatible polysaccharides, chitosan and sodium alginate were alternately deposited onto the CaCO3(CMC) templates to obtain hollow microcapsules. Regular oscillation of surface charge as detected by zeta potential demonstrated that the assembly proceeded surely in a LbL manner. The stability of the microcapsules was effectively improved by cross-linking of chitosan with glutaraldehyde. The chemical reaction was verified by infrared spectroscopy. The microcapsules thus fabricated could be spontaneously filled with positively charged low molecular weight substances such as rhodamine 6G and showed good biocompatibility, as detected by in vitro cell culture.

Silk sericin-alginate-chitosan microcapsules: hepatocytes encapsulation for enhanced cellular functions.

PubMed

Nayak, Sunita; Dey, Sanchareeka; Kundu, Subhas C

2014-04-01

The encapsulation based technology permits long-term delivery of desired therapeutic products in local regions of body without the need of immunosuppressant drugs. In this study microcapsules composed of sericin and alginate micro bead as inner core and with an outer chitosan shell are prepared. This work is proposed for live cell encapsulation for potential therapeutic applications. The sericin protein is obtained from cocoons of non-mulberry silkworm Antheraea mylitta. The sericin-alginate micro beads are prepared via ionotropic gelation under high applied voltage. The beads further coated with chitosan and crosslinked with genipin. The microcapsules developed are nearly spherical in shape with smooth surface morphology. Alamar blue assay and confocal microscopy indicate high cell viability and uniform encapsulated cell distribution within the sericin-alginate-chitosan microcapsules indicating that the microcapsules maintain favourable microenvironment for the cells. The functional analysis of encapsulated cells demonstrates that the glucose consumption, urea secretion rate and intracellular albumin content increased in the microcapsules. The study suggests that the developed sericin-alginate-chitosan microcapsule contributes towards the development of cell encapsulation model. It also offers to generate enriched population of metabolically and functionally active cells for the future therapeutics especially for hepatocytes transplantation in acute liver failure. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Autonomic Healing of Low-Velocity Impact Damage in Fiber-Reinforced Composites

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-01-01

formaldehyde) microencapsulation using the method described by Brown et al. [37]. Two different size ranges of microcapsules were employed to promote even...agent. The components for self-healing, urea–formaldehyde microcapsules containing dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) liquid healing agent and paraffin wax...impact damage is the employment of self-healing materials. In particular, the strat- egy using microencapsulated healing agent, demonstrated by White

Development of Self-Healing Coatings Based on Linseed Oil as Autonomous Repairing Agent for Corrosion Resistance.

PubMed

Thanawala, Karan; Mutneja, Nisha; Khanna, Anand S; Raman, R K Singh

2014-11-11

In recent years corrosion-resistant self-healing coatings have witnessed strong growth and their successful laboratory design and synthesis categorises them in the family of smart/multi-functional materials. Among various approaches for achieving self-healing, microcapsule embedment through the material matrix is the main one for self-healing ability in coatings. The present work focuses on optimizing the process parameters for developing microcapsules by in-situ polymerization of linseed oil as core and urea-formaldehyde as shell material. Characteristics of these microcapsules with respect to change in processing parameters such as stirring rate and reaction time were studied by using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The effectiveness of these microcapsules in coatings was characterized by studying their adhesion, performance, and mechanical properties.

Development of Self-Healing Coatings Based on Linseed Oil as Autonomous Repairing Agent for Corrosion Resistance

PubMed Central

Thanawala, Karan; Mutneja, Nisha; Khanna, Anand S.; Singh Raman, R. K.

2014-01-01

In recent years corrosion-resistant self-healing coatings have witnessed strong growth and their successful laboratory design and synthesis categorises them in the family of smart/multi-functional materials. Among various approaches for achieving self-healing, microcapsule embedment through the material matrix is the main one for self-healing ability in coatings. The present work focuses on optimizing the process parameters for developing microcapsules by in-situ polymerization of linseed oil as core and urea-formaldehyde as shell material. Characteristics of these microcapsules with respect to change in processing parameters such as stirring rate and reaction time were studied by using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The effectiveness of these microcapsules in coatings was characterized by studying their adhesion, performance, and mechanical properties. PMID:28788249

Preparation and Properties of Melamine Urea-Formaldehyde Microcapsules for Self-Healing of Cementitious Materials

PubMed Central

Li, Wenting; Zhu, Xujing; Zhao, Nan; Jiang, Zhengwu

2016-01-01

Self-healing microcapsules were synthesized by in situ polymerization with a melamine urea-formaldehyde resin shell and an epoxy resin adhesive. The effects of the key factors, i.e., core–wall ratio, reaction temperature, pH and stirring rate, were investigated by characterizing microcapsule morphology, shell thickness, particle size distribution, mechanical properties and chemical nature. Microcapsule healing mechanisms in cement paste were evaluated based on recovery strength and healing microstructure. The results showed that the encapsulation ability, the elasticity modulus and hardness of the capsule increased with an increase of the proportion of shell material. Increased polymerization temperatures were beneficial to the higher degree of shell condensation polymerization, higher resin particles deposition on microcapsule surfaces and enhanced mechanical properties. For relatively low pH values, the less porous three-dimensional structure led to the increased elastic modulus of shell and the more stable chemical structure. Optimized microcapsules were produced at a temperature of 60 °C, a core-wall ratio of 1:1, at pH 2~3 and at a stirring rate of 300~400 r/min. The best strength restoration was observed in the cement paste pre-damaged by 30% fmax and incorporating 4 wt % of capsules. PMID:28773280

Cosmetic textiles with biological benefits: gelatin microcapsules containing vitamin C.

PubMed

Cheng, Shuk Yan; Yuen, Marcus Chun Wah; Kan, Chi Wai; Cheuk, Kevin Ka Leung; Chui, Chung Hin; Lam, Kim Hung

2009-10-01

In recent years, textile materials with special applications in the cosmetic field have been developed. A new sector of cosmetic textiles is opened up and several cosmetic textile products are currently available in the market. Microencapsulation technology is an effective technique to control the release properties of active ingredients that prolong the functionality of cosmetic textiles. This study discusses the development of cosmetic textiles and addresses microencapsulation technology with respect to its historical background, significant advantages, microencapsulation methods and recent applications in the textile industry. Gelatin microcapsules containing vitamin C were prepared using emulsion hardening technique. Both the optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that the newly developed microcapsules were in the form of core-shell spheres with relatively smooth surface. The particle size of microcapsules ranged from 5.0 to 44.1 microm with the average particle size being 24.6 microm. The gelatin microcapsules were proved to be non-cytotoxic based on the research findings of the toxicity studies conducted on human liver and breast cell lines as well as primary bone marrow culture obtained from patient with non-malignant haematological disorder. The gelatin microcapsules were successfully grafted into textile materials for the development of cosmetic textiles.

Simultaneous Optimization of Multiple Response Variables for the Gelatin-chitosan Microcapsules Containing Angelica Essential Oil.

PubMed

Li, Qiang; Sun, Li-Jian; Gong, Xian-Feng; Wang, Yang; Zhao, Xue-Ling

2017-01-01

Angelica essential oil (AO), a major pharmacologically active component of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels, possesses hemogenesis, analgesic activities, and sedative effect. The application of AO in pharmaceutical systems had been limited because of its low oxidative stability. The AO-loaded gelatin-chitosan microcapsules with prevention from oxidation were developed and optimized using response surface methodology. The effects of formulation variables (pH at complex coacervation, gelatin concentration, and core/wall ratio) on multiple response variables (yield, encapsulation efficiency, antioxidation rate, percent of drug released in 1 h, and time to 85% drug release) were systemically investigated. A desirability function that combined these five response variables was constructed. All response variables investigated were found to be highly dependent on the formulation variables, with strong interactions observed between the formulation variables. It was found that optimum overall desirability of AO microcapsules could be obtained at pH 6.20, gelatin concentration 25.00%, and core/wall ratio 40.40%. The experimental values of the response variables highly agreed with the predicted values. The antioxidation rate of optimum formulation was approximately 8 times higher than that of AO. The in-vitro drug release from microcapsules was followed Higuchi model with super case-II transport mechanism.

Synthesis of hollow silica spheres with hierarchical shell structure by the dual action of liquid indium microbeads in vapor-liquid-solid growth.

PubMed

Wang, Jian-Tao; Wang, Hui; Ou, Xue-Mei; Lee, Chun-Sing; Zhang, Xiao-Hong

2011-07-05

Geometry-based adhesion arising from hierarchical surface structure enables microspheres to adhere to cells strongly, which is essential for inorganic microcapsules that function as drug delivery or diagnostic imaging agents. However, constructing a hierarchical structure on the outer shell of the products via the current microcapsule synthesis method is difficult. This work presents a novel approach to fabricating hollow microspheres with a hierarchical shell structure through the vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) process in which liquid indium droplets act as both templates for the formation of silica capsules and catalysts for the growth of hierarchical shell structure. This hierarchical shell structure offers the hollow microsphere an enhanced geometry-based adhesion. The results provide a facile method for fabricating hollow spheres and enriching their function through tailoring the geometry of their outer shells. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Fabrication of Covalently Crosslinked and Amine-Reactive Microcapsules by Reactive Layer-by-Layer Assembly of Azlactone-Containing Polymer Multilayers on Sacrificial Microparticle Templates

PubMed Central

Saurer, Eric M.; Flessner, Ryan M.; Buck, Maren E.; Lynn, David M.

2011-01-01

We report on the fabrication of covalently crosslinked and amine-reactive hollow microcapsules using ‘reactive’ layer-by-layer assembly to deposit thin polymer films on sacrificial microparticle templates. Our approach is based on the alternating deposition of layers of a synthetic polyamine and a polymer containing reactive azlactone functionality. Multilayered films composed of branched poly(ethylene imine) (BPEI) and poly(2-vinyl-4,4-dimethylazlactone) (PVDMA) were fabricated layer-by-layer on the surfaces of calcium carbonate and glass microparticle templates. After fabrication, these films contained residual azlactone functionality that was accessible for reaction with amine-containing molecules. Dissolution of the calcium carbonate or glass cores using aqueous ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) or hydrofluoric acid (HF), respectively, led to the formation of hollow polymer microcapsules. These microcapsules were robust enough to encapsulate and retain a model macromolecule (FITC-dextran) and were stable for at least 22 hours in high ionic strength environments, in low and high pH solutions, and in several common organic solvents. Significant differences in the behaviors of capsules fabricated on CaCO3 and glass cores were observed and characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Whereas capsules fabricated on CaCO3 templates collapsed upon drying, capsules fabricated on glass templates remained rigid and spherical. Characterization using EDS suggested that this latter behavior results, at least in part, from the presence of insoluble metal fluoride salts that are trapped or precipitate within the walls of capsules after etching of the glass cores using HF. Our results demonstrate that the assembly of BPEI/PVDMA films on sacrificial templates can be used to fabricate reactive microcapsules of potential use in a wide range of fields, including catalysis, drug and gene delivery, imaging, and biomedical research. PMID:21383867

Fabrication of chitosan single-component microcapsules with a micrometer-thick and layered wall structure by stepwise core-mediated precipitation.

PubMed

Han, Yuanyuan; Tong, Weijun; Zhang, Yuying; Gao, Changyou

2012-02-27

Incubation of CaCO(3) microparticles in chitosan (CS) solution at pH 5.2 and following with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt (EDTA) treatment resulted in CS single-component microcapsules with an ultra-thick wall structure. Repeating the incubation caused stepwise increase of wall thickness and finally resulted in CS microcapsules with a layered structure. This unique method is mediated by precipitation of CS on the CaCO(3) particles as a result of pH increase caused by the partial dissolution of CaCO(3) . The obtained CS capsules are stable at neutral pH. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Self-Repairing Mechanism of MUF/Epoxy Microcapsules for Epoxy Material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ni, Zhuo; Lin, Yuhao; Zhou, Xiaobo

2017-12-01

In this paper, a post curing reaction for the microcapsule/epoxy composite material and the conditions of thermal treatment for self-healing process were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The condition of thermal treatment for post curing (60°C, 2 hours) was employed to fully cure the epoxy composite. Damage mechanism for the epoxy material was demonstrated via data simulation and three-point bending experiment for the stress distribution reveals that micro-cracks are more likely to be generated on the central region in stress concentration area of two constrained boundaries and the numbers of micro-cracks are reduced from the central area to the two ends of the material. Self-repairing performances of MUF microcapsule/epoxy composite materials were characterized using both destructive bending tests and non-destructive DMA measurements. Self-healing efficiencies of the composites embedded 2% and 5% microcapsule content measured by DMA are 101% and 104% respectively which are close to those results of 104% and 113% correspondingly measured by bending tests. Crack formation and development, core material releasing for MUF microcapsules and physiochemical process of the self-repairing were investigated by using OM, fluorescent technique and infrared microscope. These provide detailed evidences and important information on self-healing mechanism of the microcapsule/epoxy self-repairing material.

Characteristics of Gouda Cheese Supplemented with Chili Pepper Extract Microcapsules

PubMed Central

Nam, Myoung Soo; Bae, Hyoung Churl

2017-01-01

In this study, the physicochemical and sensory properties of Gouda cheese supplemented with microcapsules of chili pepper extract were evaluated. Microcapsules of pepper extract were prepared by coacervation technique using gum acacia-gelatin wall and chili pepper oil core. Changes in pH, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) population, and free amino acid (FAA) content after supplementation of Gouda cheese with chili pepper capsules were monitored during ripening. Texture and sensory characteristics of the Gouda cheese ripened for 6 months were evaluated. The supplementation of pepper extract microcapsules (0.5% or 1%, w/w) did not influence the pH values and LAB content of the Gouda cheese (p<0.05) during the ripening period. While the content of total FAA increased with the ripening process in all the cheese groups (p<0.05), no significant difference (p<0.05) in the content of total FAA was observed among the sample groups at each time point. The addition of pepper extract microcapsules (1%, w/w) to Gouda cheese significantly decreased hardness (p<0.05) and negatively affected sensory attributes in terms of taste and texture (p<0.05). The results demonstrated that supplementation with 0.5% pepper extract microcapsules could provide additional bioactive ingredients, along with maintenance of the quality of Gouda cheese. PMID:29725204

Stability of cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) essential oil in microcapsules made of whey protein isolate, guar gum, and carrageenan.

PubMed

Mehyar, Ghadeer F; Al-Ismail, Khalid M; Al-Isamil, Khalid M; Al-Ghizzawi, Hana'a M; Holley, Richard A

2014-10-01

The effects of microencapsulating cardamom essential oil (CEO) in whey protein isolate (WPI) alone and combined with guar gum (GG) and carrageen (CG) on microencapsulation efficiency, oil chemical stability, and microcapsule structure were investigated. Freeze-dried microcapsules were prepared from emulsions containing (w/w): 15% and 30% WPI; 0.1% GG, and 0.2% CG as wall materials with CEO (at 10% of polymer concentration) as core material, and physical properties and chemical stability were compared. Bulk density of microcapsules was highest in WPI without GG or CG and in 30% WPI + GG microcapsules, and was more affected by moisture content (r = -0.6) than by mean particle diameter (d43 ; r = -0.2) and span (r = 0.1). Microcapsules containing only WPI had the highest entrapped oil (7.5%) and microencapsulation efficiency (98.5%). The concentrations of 1,8-cineole and d-limonene were used as indicators for microcapsule chemical stability since they were the main components of CEO. Microcapsules retained higher (P ≤ 0.05) concentrations of both components than non-microencapsulated CEO during 16 wk storage at 20 ºC, but higher loss of both components was noted at 35 ºC. Microencapsulated d-limonene was reduced faster than 1,8-cineole regardless of temperature. The 30% WPI and 30% WPI + GG microcapsules retained CEO best throughout storage at both storage temperatures. Scanning electron micrographs revealed that WPI microcapsules had smooth surfaces, were relatively homogenous and regular in shape, whereas GG and CG addition increased visual surface porosity and reduced shape regularity. It was concluded that the best formulation for encapsulating CEO was 30% WPI. Encapsulating cardamom essential oil in whey protein isolate alone or combined with guar gum produced dried powders that effectively retained and chemically stabilized CEO, and therefore enhanced its handling and storability. © 2014 Institute of Food Technologists®

Effects of self-healing microcapsules on bending performance in composite brake pads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Li; Dong, Xiu-ping; Wang, Hui

2009-07-01

For the purpose of reducing self-weight, friction noise and cost, improving shock absorption, enhancing corrosion and wear resistance, brake pads made of composite materials with self-healing function are prepared to substitute metal ones by designing ingredients and applying optimized production technology. As self-healing capsules are chosen, new method with technology of self-healing microcapsules, dicyclpentadiene (DCPD) microcapsules coated with poly (urea-formaldehyde), is put forward in this paper. In the crack's extending process, the stress is concentrated at the crack end, where the microcapsule is designed to be located. When the stress goes through the microcapsules and causes them to break, the self-healing liquid runs out to fill the crack by the capillary and it will poly-react with catalyst in the composite. As a result, the crack is healed. In this paper, polymer matrix composite brake pads with 6 prescriptions are prepared and studied. Three-point bending tests are carried out according to standards in GB/T 3356-1999 and the elastic constants of these polymer matrix composites are obtained by experiments. In accordance with the law of the continuous fiber composite, elastic constants of the short-fiber composite can be calculated by proportions of each ingredient. Results show that the theoretical expected results and the experimental values are consistent. 0.3-1.2 % mass proportion of microcapsules has little effects on the composite's bending intensity and modulus of elasticity. These studies also show that self-healing microcapsules used in composite brake pads is feasible.

Chitosan-carboxymethylcellulose based microcapsules formulation for controlled release of active ingredients from cosmeto textile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roy, J. C.; Ferri, A.; Salaün, F.; Giraud, S.; Chen, G.; Jinping, G.

2017-10-01

Chitosan-based emulsions were prepared at pH from 4.0 to 6.0. The zeta potential and droplet size were monitored at different pH. Double emulsions (wateroil- water) were observed due to the stiff conformation of chitosan at pH 4.0. At pH 5.0, the emulsion droplets were the smallest (2.9 μm) of the experimental pH range. The emulsion droplets were well dispersed due to high surface charge of chitosan (for example, +50 mV at pH 5.5) in entire pH range. The emulsion was treated with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) for neutralizing the charged chitosan on the surface of emulsion droplets. Above 10×10-2 mg/ml of CMC, no change in zeta potential was observed indicating no more free chitosan existed after neutralization with CMC. The emulsion was then crosslinked with different amount of glutaraldehyde. Upon increasing the amount of glutaraldehyde, the amount of core content inside the microcapsule and encapsulation efficiency of shell materials decreased gradually. The Dynamic Scanning Calorimetry data confirmed no interaction between core and shell material in the microencapsulation process. The thermal degradation of the microcapsules was examined by thermogravimetric analysis and a gradual decrease in the degradation temperature upon increasing glutaraldehyde concentration was found. The tuning of CMC concentration can provide valuable information regarding stable emulsion and efficient microcapsule formulation via coacervation.

Highly uniform and stable cerasomal microcapsule with good biocompatibility for drug delivery.

PubMed

Zhang, Chun-Yang; Cao, Zhong; Zhu, Wen-Jian; Liu, Jie; Jiang, Qing; Shuai, Xin-Tao

2014-04-01

Efforts to improve the stability of liposomes have recently led to the development of organic-inorganic liposomal cerasomes. However, the uncontrollable size of cerasomes has greatly limited their biomedical applications. In this study, a novel strategy was introduced to fabricate hybrid liposomal cerasomes with high stability and uniform size. The hybrid lipids were first deposited onto CaCO3 microspheres through electrostatic interactions and self-assembly, and then the CaCO3 core was removed to obtain hollow microcapsules, i.e. the cerasomes. The species of the lipid oligomers was detected by MALDI-TOF-MS, which demonstrates the existence of siloxane network on microcapsules' surface. Anticancer drug doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) loaded cerasomal microcapsule (DLCM) exhibited an initial burst release behavior followed by the sustained release and remarkably high stability towards surfactant solubilization and long term storage. The DLCM displayed a pH-dependent and sustained DOX release profile in vitro, which can be well explained using a well established mathematical model. Our results indicate that these novel cerasomal microcapsules have great potential to be applied as drug delivery system in cancer therapy. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Investigation on the mechanical properties of polyurea (PU)/melamine formaldehyde (MF) microcapsules prepared with different chain extenders.

PubMed

Hu, Jianfeng; Zhang, Xiaotong; Qu, Jinqing

2018-05-02

There is lack of understanding on controlling of mechanical properties of moisture-curing PU/MF microcapsules which limited its further application. PU/MF microcapsules containing a core of isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) were prepared with different chain extenders, polyetheramine D400, H 2 O, triethylenetetramine and polyetheramine (PEA) D230 by following a two-step synthesis method in this study. Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy, Malvern particle sizing, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). And micromanipulation technique was used to identify chemical bonds in the shell, size distributions, structure, thickness, and mechanical properties of microcapsules. The results show that PU/MF microcapsules were successfully prepared. Tr increased from 46.4 ± 13.9 N/m to 75.8 ± 23.3 N/m when extender changed from D400 to D230. And the Tr increased from 51.3 ± 14.1 to 94.8 ± 17.5 N/m when the swelling time increased from 1 to 3h. Morphologies of the shell were utilised to understand the mechanism of reactions in forming the shell materials.

Self-healing concrete by use of microencapsulated bacterial spores

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, J.Y.; Laboratory of Microbial Ecology and Technology; Soens, H.

Microcapsules were applied to encapsulate bacterial spores for self-healing concrete. The viability of encapsulated spores and the influence of microcapsules on mortar specimens were investigated first. Breakage of the microcapsules upon cracking was verified by Scanning Electron Microscopy. Self-healing capacity was evaluated by crack healing ratio and the water permeability. The results indicated that the healing ratio in the specimens with bio-microcapsules was higher (48%–80%) than in those without bacteria (18%–50%). The maximum crack width healed in the specimens of the bacteria series was 970 μm, about 4 times that of the non-bacteria series (max 250 μm). The overall watermore » permeability in the bacteria series was about 10 times lower than that in non-bacteria series. Wet–dry cycles were found to stimulate self-healing in mortar specimens with encapsulated bacteria. No self-healing was observed in all specimens stored at 95%RH, indicating that the presence of liquid water is an essential component for self-healing.« less

Influence of internal composition on physicochemical properties of alginate aqueous-core capsules.

PubMed

Ben Messaoud, Ghazi; Sánchez-González, Laura; Probst, Laurent; Desobry, Stéphane

2016-05-01

To enhance physicochemical properties of alginate aqueous-core capsules, conventional strategies were focused in literature on designing composite and coated capsules. In the present study, own effect of liquid-core composition on mechanical and release properties was investigated. Capsules were prepared by dripping a CaCl2 solution into an alginate gelling solution. Viscosity of CaCl2 solution was adjusted by adding cationic, anionic and non-ionic naturally derived polymers, respectively chitosan, xanthan gum and guar gum. In parallel, uniform alginate hydrogels were prepared by different methods (pouring, in situ forming and mixing). Mechanical stability of capsules and plane hydrogels were respectively evaluated by compression experiments and small amplitude oscillatory shear rheology and then correlated. Capsules permeability was evaluated by monitoring diffusion of encapsulated cochineal dye, riboflavin and BSA. The core-shell interactions were investigated by ATR-FTIR. Results showed that inner polymer had an impact on membrane stability and could act as an internal coating or provide mechanical reinforcement. Mechanical properties of alginate capsules were in a good agreement with rheological behavior of plane hydrogels. Release behavior of the entrapped molecules changed considerably. This study demonstrated the importance of aqueous-core composition, and gave new insights for possible adjusting of microcapsules physicochemical properties by modulating core-shell interactions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

In vitro evaluation of encapsulated primary rat hepatocytes pre- and post-cryopreservation at -80°C and in liquid nitrogen.

PubMed

Durkut, Serap; Elçin, A Eser; Elçin, Y Murat

2015-02-01

Encapsulation techniques have the potential to protect hepatocytes from cryoinjury. In this study, we comparatively evaluated the viability and metabolic function of primary rat hepatocytes encapsulated in calcium alginate microbeads, in chitosan tripolyphosphate beads, and in three-layered alginate-chitosan-alginate (ACA) microcapsules, before and after cryopreservation at -80°C and in liquid nitrogen (LN2) for 1 and 3 months. Findings demonstrated that LN2 was atop of -80°C in regard to preservation of viability (> 90%) and hepatic functions. LN2-cryopreserved hepatocytes encapsulated in ACA microcapsules retained metabolic function post-thawing, with > 90% of the albumin, total protein and urea syntheses activities, and > 80% of oxidative function.

Microcapsules Containing pH-Responsive, Fluorescent Polymer-Integrated MoS2: An Effective Platform for in Situ pH Sensing and Photothermal Heating.

PubMed

Park, Chan Ho; Lee, Sangmin; Pornnoppadol, Ghasidit; Nam, Yoon Sung; Kim, Shin-Hyun; Kim, Bumjoon J

2018-03-14

We report the design of a novel microcapsule platform for in situ pH sensing and photothermal heating, which involves the encapsulation of pH-responsive polymer-coated molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2 ) nanosheets (NSs) in microcapsules with an aqueous core and a semipermeable polymeric shell. The MoS 2 NSs were functionalized with pH-responsive polymers having fluorescent groups at the distal end to provide pH-sensitive Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) effect. The pH-responsive polymers were carefully designed to produce a dramatic change in the polymer conformation, which translated to a change in the FRET efficiency near pH 7.0 in response to subtle pH changes, enabling the detection of cancer cells. The pH-sensitive MoS 2 NSs were microfluidically encapsulated within semipermeable membranes to yield microcapsules with a uniform size and composition. The microcapsules retained the MoS 2 NSs without leakage while allowing the diffusion of small ions and water through the membrane. At the same time, the membranes excluded adhesive proteins and lipids in the surrounding media, protecting the encapsulated MoS 2 NSs from deactivation and enabling in situ pH monitoring. Moreover, the encapsulated MoS 2 NSs showed high-performance photothermal heating, rendering the dual-functional microcapsules highly suitable for cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Hollow Pollen Shells to Enhance Drug Delivery

PubMed Central

Diego-Taboada, Alberto; Beckett, Stephen T.; Atkin, Stephen L.; Mackenzie, Grahame

2014-01-01

Pollen grain and spore shells are natural microcapsules designed to protect the genetic material of the plant from external damage. The shell is made up of two layers, the inner layer (intine), made largely of cellulose, and the outer layer (exine), composed mainly of sporopollenin. The relative proportion of each varies according to the plant species. The structure of sporopollenin has not been fully characterised but different studies suggest the presence of conjugated phenols, which provide antioxidant properties to the microcapsule and UV (ultraviolet) protection to the material inside it. These microcapsule shells have many advantageous properties, such as homogeneity in size, resilience to both alkalis and acids, and the ability to withstand temperatures up to 250 °C. These hollow microcapsules have the ability to encapsulate and release actives in a controlled manner. Their mucoadhesion to intestinal tissues may contribute to the extended contact of the sporopollenin with the intestinal mucosa leading to an increased efficiency of delivery of nutraceuticals and drugs. The hollow microcapsules can be filled with a solution of the active or active in a liquid form by simply mixing both together, and in some cases operating a vacuum. The active payload can be released in the human body depending on pressure on the microcapsule, solubility and/or pH factors. Active release can be controlled by adding a coating on the shell, or co-encapsulation with the active inside the shell. PMID:24638098

Preparation of Fragrant Microencapsules and Coating on Textiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shah Jafari, M. H.; Parvinzadeh, M.; Najafi, F.

2007-08-01

A microcapsule is a small sphere with a uniform wall around it. Microcapsules range in diameter from 1 to 1000 μm. The move by the more developed countries into textiles with new properties and added value, into medical and technical textiles, has encouraged the industry to use microencapsulation process as a means of imparting finishes and properties on textiles which were not possible or cost-effective using other technology. Numerous attempts have been made at adding fragrances directly to fiber and fabrics but all fail to survive after one or two wash cycle. Only through microencapsulation, fragrances are able to remain on a garment during a significant part of its lifetime. This research has tried to prepare microcapsules with poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) as wall and Rose fragrance as core.

Characterization of orange oil microcapsules for application in textiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rossi, W.; Bonet-Aracil, M.; Bou-Belda, E.; Gisbert-Payá, J.; Wilson, K.; Roldo, L.

2017-10-01

The use of orange oil presents as an ecological alternative to chemicals, attracting the attention of the scientific community to the development of eco-friendly antimicrobials. The microencapsulation technology has been used for the application of orange oil to textiles, being an economically viable, fast and efficient method by combining core and shell materials, desirable perceptual and functional characteristics, responsible for properties related to the nature of the product and provides that the wall materials release the functional substances in a controlled manner, in addition to effectively protecting and isolating the core material from the external environment to prevent its volatilization and deterioration, increasing the stability of the oil, such as non-toxicity. Thus, to better exploit the properties of the orange essential oil applied to textile products this study presents a characterization of microcapsules of Melamine formaldehyde obtained by the interfacial polymerization method with variations of proportions of orange oil (volatile) with fixed oil Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCT) (non-volatile) to assist in the stability of the orange essential oil. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used as visualizing tool to characterize microparticles and surface morphology and thermal characteristics of microcapsules were premeditated by mean Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).

Layer-by-layer hollow photosensitizer microcapsule design via a manganese carbonate hard template for photodynamic therapy in cells.

PubMed

Simioni, Andreza Ribeiro; de Jesus, Priscila Costa Carvalho; Tedesco, Antonio Claudio

2018-06-01

Microcapsules fabricated using layer-by-layer self-assembly have unique properties, making them attractive for drug delivery applications. The technique has been improved, allowing the deposition of multiple layers of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes on spherical, colloidal templates. These templates can be decomposed by coating multiple layers, resulting in hollow shells. In this paper, we describe a novel drug delivery system for loading photosensitizer drugs into hollow multilayered microcapsules for photoprocess applications. Manganese carbonate particles were prepared by mixing NH 4 HCO 3 and MnSO 4 and performing consecutive polyelectrolyte adsorption processes onto these templates using poly-(sodium 4-styrene sulfonate) and poly-(allylamine hydrocholoride). A photosensitizer was also incorporated into the layers. Hollow spheres were fabricated by removing the cores in the acidic solution. The hollow, multilayered microcapsules were studied by scanning electron microscopy, steady-state, and time-resolved techniques. Their biological activity was evaluated in vitro with cancer cells using a conventional MTT assay. The synthesized CaCO 3 microparticles were uniform, non-aggregated, and highly porous spheres. The phthalocyanine derivatives loaded in the microcapsules maintained their photophysical behaviour after encapsulation. The spectroscopic results presented here showed excellent photophysical behaviour of the studied drug. We observed a desirable increase in singlet oxygen production, which is favourable for the PDT protocol. Cell viability after treatment was determined and the proposed microcapsules caused 80% cell death compared to the control. The results demonstrate that photosensitizer adsorption into the CaCO 3 microparticle voids together with the layer-by-layer assembly of biopolymers provide a method for the fabrication of biocompatible microcapsules for use as biomaterials. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Microencapsulation of xylitol by double emulsion followed by complex coacervation.

PubMed

Santos, Milla G; Bozza, Fernanda T; Thomazini, Marcelo; Favaro-Trindade, Carmen S

2015-03-15

The objective of this study was to produce and characterise xylitol microcapsules for use in foods, in order to prolong the sweetness and cooling effect provided by this ingredient. Complex coacervation was employed as the microencapsulation method. A preliminary double emulsion step was performed due to the hydrophilicity of xylitol. The microcapsules obtained were characterised in terms of particle size and morphology (optical, confocal and scanning electron microscopy), solubility, sorption isotherms, FTIR, encapsulation efficiency and release study. The microcapsules of xylitol showed desirable characteristics for use in foods, such as a particle size below 109 μm, low solubility and complete encapsulation of the core by the wall material. The encapsulation efficiency ranged from 31% to 71%, being higher in treatments with higher concentrations of polymers. Release of over 70% of the microencapsulated xylitol in artificial saliva occurred within 20 min. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Determination of the resistance of fabric printed with triclosan microcapsules to the action of soil micro-flora

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Golja, B.; Forte Tavčer, P.

2017-10-01

Microcapsules with a pressure-sensitive melamine-formaldehyde wall and triclosan core were printed to 100% cotton fabric with screen printing technique. Previous research showed excellent antibacterial activity (estimated for E. Coli and S. Aureus) of such fabric, so our aim in this research was to determine its resistance to the action of microorganisms present in the soil. The soil burial test was conducted. The breaking strength of the buried samples was measured and also the scanning electron microscope analysis was done. The results showed that none of the samples are resistant to decay. It is evident from SEM micrographs that on all of the buried samples greater morphological changes occur due to the functions of the soil microflora. It can be concluded that the samples printed with triclosan microcapsules are biodegradable which is environmentally preferable.

Report: Optimization study of the preparation factors for argan oil microcapsule based on hybrid-level orthogonal array design via SPSS modeling.

PubMed

Zhao, Xi; Wu, Xiaoli; Zhou, Hui; Jiang, Tao; Chen, Chun; Liu, Mingshi; Jin, Yuanbao; Yang, Dongsheng

2014-11-01

To optimize the preparation factors for argan oil microcapsule using complex coacervation of chitosan cross-linked with gelatin based on hybrid-level orthogonal array design via SPSS modeling. Eight relatively significant factors were firstly investigated and selected as calculative factors for the orthogonal array design from the total of ten factors effecting the preparation of argan oil microcapsule by utilizing the single factor variable method. The modeling of hybrid-level orthogonal array design was built in these eight factors with the relevant levels (9, 9, 9, 9, 7, 6, 2 and 2 respectively). The preparation factors for argan oil microcapsule were investigated and optimized according to the results of hybrid-level orthogonal array design. The priorities order and relevant optimum levels of preparation factors standard to base on the percentage of microcapsule with the diameter of 30~40 μm via SPSS. Experimental data showed that the optimum factors were controlling the chitosan/gelatin ratio, the systemic concentration and the core/shell ratio at 1:2, 1.5% and 1:7 respectively, presetting complex coacervation pH at 6.4, setting cross-linking time and complex coacervation at 75 min and 30 min, using the glucose-delta lactone as the type of cross-linking agent, and selecting chitosan with the molecular weight of 2000～3000.

[An electron microscopy study of the structure of polyelectrolyte microcapsules containing protein and containing no protein].

PubMed

Kazakova, L I; Dubrovskiĭ, A V; Moshkov, D A; Shabarchina, L I; Sukhorukov, B I

2007-01-01

Electron micrographs of ultrathin sections of polyelectrolyte microparticles containing protein and free from protein for the formation of which CaCO3 spherulites served as a core basis have been obtained and analyzed. Polyelectrolyte microparticles with the number of alternately layered polyelectrolyte layers of polystyrene sulfonate and polyallylamine from 6 to 11 have been studied. It follows from the data obtained that protein-free polyelectrolyte particles having the dimensions 4.5-5 mm are formations of an intricate internal organization, which consist of a set of threadlike and closed nanoelements of polyelectrolyte nature with a thickness of 20-30 nm. The particles containing six to eight polyelectrolyte layers lack the external envelope; therefore, they were called polyelectrolyte microspherulites. With the number of layers nine and more, when a polyelectrolyte envelope appears on the surface, they transfer into polyelectrolyte microcapsules. It was found that, in a protein-containing polyelectrolyte microcapsule, as distinct from protein-free polyelectrolyte microspherulite and microcapsule, polyelectrolytes are located only in the nearsurface layer, and the external spatially organized envelope restricts the internal volume filled with protein solution. As the number of polyelectrolyte layers increases, the thickness of the envelope increases. The reasons for such substantial differences in the structures of polyelectrolyte microcapsules formed on protein-containing and protein-free CaCO3 spherulite are discussed.

Edible antimicrobial films based on microencapsulated lemongrass oil.

PubMed

Bustos C, Rubén O; Alberti R, Francesca V; Matiacevich, Silvia B

2016-01-01

Edible films and coatings have been proposed as viable alternatives for the preservation of fresh food such as fruit, meat, fish and cheese. They can be designed to contain natural antioxidants, vitamins and antimicrobials in order to extend shelf life of the product keeping the natural sensorial properties. Essential oils have been targeted as potential active principles for edible films and coatings given their well-recognized antioxidant, antimicrobial and sensory properties. In the present work, lemongrass oil (LMO) microcapsules were prepared by the emulsification-separation method using sodium caseinate as wall material. Microcapsules had an average size of 22 μm and contained over 51 % oil in their nucleus. The release kinetics of the LMO components was studied for both, microcapsules and microcapsule containing films. Experimental data for the controlled release of LMO components showed good correlation with Peppas and Weibull models. The effect of the alginate matrix on the release parameters of the mathematical models could be detected by the modification of the b constant of the Weibull equation which changed from 0.167 for the microcapsules to 0.351 for the films. Films containing LMO at concentrations of 1250, 2500 and 5000 ppm were able to inhibit growth of Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Listeria monocytogenes ISP 65-08 in liquid cultures. A possible future application of these films for shelf life extension of fresh food is discussed.

Combination of injectable ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone drug-delivery systems and characterization of their in vitro release.

PubMed

Nippe, Stefanie; General, Sascha

2012-11-20

Our aim was to investigate the in vitro release and combination of ethinyl estradiol (EE) and drospirenone (DRSP) drug-delivery systems. DRSP poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles and organogels containing DRSP microcrystals were prepared and characterized with regard to properties influencing drug release. The morphology and release kinetics of DRSP PLGA microparticles indicated that DRSP is dispersed in the polymer. The in vitro release profiles correlated well with in vivo data. Although DRSP degradation is known to be acid-catalyzed, DRSP was relatively stable in the PLGA matrix. Aqueous DRSP PLGA microparticle suspensions were combinable with EE PLGA microparticles and EE poly(butylcyanoacrylate) (PBCA) microcapsules without interacting. EE release from PLGA microparticles was faster than DRSP release; EE release is assumed to be primarily controlled by drug diffusion. Liquid-filled EE PBCA microcapsules were shown to be more robust than air-filled EE PBCA microcapsules; the bursting of microcapsules accelerating the drug delivery was therefore delayed. The drug release profile for DRSP organogels was fairly linear with the square root of time. The system was not combinable with EE PBCA microcapsules. In contrast, incorporation of EE PLGA microparticles in organogels resulted in prolonged EE release. The drug release of EE and DRSP was thus approximated. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Pulse-Flow Microencapsulation System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R.

2006-01-01

The pulse-flow microencapsulation system (PFMS) is an automated system that continuously produces a stream of liquid-filled microcapsules for delivery of therapeutic agents to target tissues. Prior microencapsulation systems have relied on batch processes that involve transfer of batches between different apparatuses for different stages of production followed by sampling for acquisition of quality-control data, including measurements of size. In contrast, the PFMS is a single, microprocessor-controlled system that performs all processing steps, including acquisition of quality-control data. The quality-control data can be used as real-time feedback to ensure the production of large quantities of uniform microcapsules.

Physicochemical characterization and biocompatibility of alginate-polycation microcapsules designed for islet transplantation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tam, Susan Kimberly

Microencapsulation represents a method for immunoprotecting transplanted therapeutic cells or tissues from graft rejection using a physical barrier. This approach is advantageous in that it eliminates the need to induce long-term immunosuppression and allows the option of transplanting non-cadaveric cell sources, such as animal cells and stem cell-derived tissues. The microcapsules that we have investigated are designed to immunoprotect islets of Langerhans (i.e. clusters of insulin-secreting cells), with the goal of treating insulin-dependent diabetes. With the aid of techniques for physicochemical analysis, this research focused on understanding which properties of the microcapsule are the most important for determining its biocompatibility. The objective of this work was to elucidate correlations between the chemical make-up, physicochemical properties, and in vivo biocompatibility of alginate-based microcapsules. Our approach was based on the hypothesis that the immune response to the microcapsules is governed by, and can therefore be controlled by, specific physicochemical properties of the microcapsule and its material components. The experimental work was divided into five phases, each associated with a specific aim : (1) To prove that immunoglobulins adsorb to the surface of alginate-polycation microcapsules, and to correlate this adsorption with the microcapsule chemistry. (2) To test interlaboratory reproducibility in making biocompatible microcapsules, and evaluate the suitability of our materials and fabrication protocols for subsequent studies. (3) To determine which physicochemical properties of alginates affect the in vivo biocompatibility of their gels. (4) To determine which physiochemical properties of alginate-polycation microcapsules are most important for determining their in vivo biocompatibility (5) To determine whether a modestly immunogenic membrane hinders or helps the ability of the microcapsule to immunoprotect islet xenografts in diabetic mice. To achieve these aims, extensive physicochemical analyses of the alginates and microcapsules were carried out. Among the properties of the alginates that were investigated include their purity (LAL assay, microBCA), chemical composition (nuclear magnetic resonance, NMR), elemental composition (x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, XPS), and hydrophilicity (contact angle technique). As for the microcapsules, we also examined their surface chemical composition (XPS), hydrophilicity, as well as alginate-polycation interactions (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, FTIR), and membrane strength (osmotic swelling). The results of this research led to a number of important conclusions about the biocompatibility of alginates and alginate-based microcapsules. First of all, purifying an alginate does not guarantee its biocompatibility. Indeed, we provided evidence that both the alginate chemical composition (i.e. relative content of mannuronate and guluronate) and its intrinsic viscosity influence the extent of host cell adhesion to alginate gel beads. Using a biocompatible alginate, we then provided evidence that microcapsule biocompatibility is greatly compromised by its polycationic membrane. We showed that this membrane is responsible for the adsorption of opsonizing proteins in vitro and the adhesion of immune cells in vivo. That said, the severity of inflammatory response to the membrane can vary, and this depended on the microcapsule design, including the choice of alginate and polycation type. Results of our physicochemical analyses suggested that the most important factor determining biocompatibility is the ability of the polycation to diffuse into, and subsequently bind to, the alginate gel core. Moreover, adding a final coating of alginate had no significant effect on reversing the effects of the membrane on various microcapsule properties (surface composition, hydrophobicity, stability), nor did this coating reduce its immunogenicity. Although we repeatedly provided evidence that the microcapsule membrane is the main problem for biocompatibility, we also demonstrated that the severity of this problem can vary according to the fabrication details. This is an important note, as it confirms the possibility of achieving optimal microcapsule biocompatibility if the interactions between the alginate and polycation are ideal. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Encapsulation of brewing yeast in alginate/chitosan matrix: lab-scale optimization of lager beer fermentation.

PubMed

Naydenova, Vessela; Badova, Mariyana; Vassilev, Stoyan; Iliev, Vasil; Kaneva, Maria; Kostov, Georgi

2014-03-04

Two mathematical models were developed for studying the effect of main fermentation temperature ( T MF ), immobilized cell mass ( M IC ) and original wort extract (OE) on beer fermentation with alginate-chitosan microcapsules with a liquid core. During the experiments, the investigated parameters were varied in order to find the optimal conditions for beer fermentation with immobilized cells. The basic beer characteristics, i.e. extract, ethanol, biomass concentration, pH and colour, as well as the concentration of aldehydes and vicinal diketones, were measured. The results suggested that the process parameters represented a powerful tool in controlling the fermentation time. Subsequently, the optimized process parameters were used to produce beer in laboratory batch fermentation. The system productivity was also investigated and the data were used for the development of another mathematical model.

Encapsulation of brewing yeast in alginate/chitosan matrix: lab-scale optimization of lager beer fermentation

PubMed Central

Naydenova, Vessela; Badova, Mariyana; Vassilev, Stoyan; Iliev, Vasil; Kaneva, Maria; Kostov, Georgi

2014-01-01

Two mathematical models were developed for studying the effect of main fermentation temperature (T MF), immobilized cell mass (M IC) and original wort extract (OE) on beer fermentation with alginate-chitosan microcapsules with a liquid core. During the experiments, the investigated parameters were varied in order to find the optimal conditions for beer fermentation with immobilized cells. The basic beer characteristics, i.e. extract, ethanol, biomass concentration, pH and colour, as well as the concentration of aldehydes and vicinal diketones, were measured. The results suggested that the process parameters represented a powerful tool in controlling the fermentation time. Subsequently, the optimized process parameters were used to produce beer in laboratory batch fermentation. The system productivity was also investigated and the data were used for the development of another mathematical model. PMID:26019512

Investigation of UV photocurable microcapsule inner crosslink extent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiaowei; Meng, Shuangshuang; Lai, Weidong; Yu, Haiyang; Fu, Guangsheng

2008-11-01

UV photocuring technology has encountered increased applications in recent years, which finds a variety of applications on protective coating of the optical-fiber, ink and optical recording materials. Combined with techniques of photohardenable, microcapsule, heat-sensitive and interface-polymerization method, a novel photoheat sensitive recording material of non-silver salt is explored in this thesis. Microcapsules are particulate substance with a core and shell structure, where photopolymerizable composition, monofunctional/polyfunctional diluents, photopolymerization initiator, photosensitivity enhancing agent and dye precursor are encapsulated as the internal phase. In this paper introduced the characteristics and curing mechanism of photo-sensitive microcapsule materials. The photocuring process may be a complex-function with photopolymerizable compound and photopolymerization initiator. For the sake of high photocuring speed and degree, optimal photo-sensitive materials were selected. In order to match with the light source excitation wavelength and absorb more wider ultraviolet band, combined type of photo-polymerization initiators were employed. With the kinds and dosage of photopolymerization initiator changing, the photocuring speed and quality can be ameliorated. Through studying the UV-visible absorption spectrum and infra-red spectrum of the material , the optical response property of the inner compound can be obtained.

Compressive deformation of a single microcapsule

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, K. K.; Williams, D. R.; Briscoe, B. J.

1996-12-01

This paper reports an experimental and theoretical study of the compressive behavior of single microcapsules; that is, liquid-filled cellular entities (approximately 65 μm in diameter) with a thin polymeric membrane wall. An experimental technique which allows the simultaneous measurement of both the compressive displacement and the reaction forces of individual microcapsules deformed between two parallel plates up to a dimensionless approach [(compressive displacement)/(initial particle diameter)] of 60% is described. The corresponding major geometric parameters of the deformed microcapsule, such as central lateral extension as well as the failure phenomena, are reported and recorded through a microscopic visualization system. The elastic modulus, the bursting strength of the membrane, and the pressure difference across the membrane are computed by using a theoretical analysis which is also presented in this paper. This theoretical model, which was developed by Feng and Yang [

Microencapsulation of Drugs: New Cancer Therapies and Improved Drug Delivery Derived from Micro Gravity Research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R.; Haddad, Ruwaida S.

2003-01-01

Experiments on the ISS include encapsulation of several different anti-cancer drugs, magnetic triggering particles, and encapsulation of genetically engineered DNA. Eight experiments, using the MEPS-II apparatus, were conducted to study the limitations of the fluid shear and g-dependent forces. These studies included: 1) formation of anti-tumor microcapsules containing drugs for "Chemoembolization" of vascularized tumors, 2) formation of microcapsules containing a photo-activated drug which can be used for Photo Dynamic Therapy of solid tumors by activation with near infrared light (630 nm), 3) coencapsulation of magnetic trigger particles and anti-tumor drugs, and 4) encapsulation of plasmid DNA. The Microencapsulation Electrostatic Processing System (MEPS-II) is an automated apparatus modified for use in the ISS Express Rack. The process brings together two immiscible liquids, restricting fluid shear to permitting surface tension forces to predominate at the interface of the fluids. Microcapsules were recovered from all 8 experiments and are currently being analyzed for size distribution and drug content. Six NASA Patents have issued from the space research and several more are pending. The preliminary results from the Increment 5 - UF-2 experiments have provided new insight into the best formulations and conditions required to produce microcapsules of different drugs, esp. special capsules containing diagnostic imaging materials and triggered release particles. Co-encapsulation of multiple drugs and Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) drugs has enabled new engineering strategies for production of microcapsules on Earth designed for direct delivery into cancer tissues. Other microcapsules have now been made for treatment of deep tissue infections, clotting disorders, and to provide delivery of genetic engineered materials for potential gene therapy approaches. The MEPS-II apparatus remains in the ISS awaiting microencapsulation experiments to be conducted in micro-g, and returned to Earth for analysis.

A Robust Oil-in-Oil Emulsion for the Nonaqueous Encapsulation of Hydrophilic Payloads.

PubMed

Lu, Xiaocun; Katz, Joshua S; Schmitt, Adam K; Moore, Jeffrey S

2018-03-14

Compartmentalized structures widely exist in cellular systems (organelles) and perform essential functions in smart composite materials (microcapsules, vasculatures, and micelles) to provide localized functionality and enhance materials' compatibility. An entirely water-free compartmentalization system is of significant value to the materials community as nonaqueous conditions are critical to packaging microcapsules with water-free hydrophilic payloads while avoiding energy-intensive drying steps. Few nonaqueous encapsulation techniques are known, especially when considering just the scalable processes that operate in batch mode. Herein, we report a robust oil-in-oil Pickering emulsion system that is compatible with nonaqueous interfacial reactions as required for encapsulation of hydrophilic payloads. A major conceptual advance of this work is the notion of the partitioning inhibitor-a chemical agent that greatly reduces the payload's distribution between the emulsion's two phases, thus providing appropriate conditions for emulsion-templated interfacial polymerization. As a specific example, an immiscible hydrocarbon-amine pair of liquids is emulsified by the incorporation of guanidinium chloride (GuHCl) as a partitioning inhibitor into the dispersed phase. Polyisobutylene (PIB) is added into the continuous phase as a viscosity modifier for suitable modification of interfacial polymerization kinetics. The combination of GuHCl and PIB is necessary to yield a robust emulsion with stable morphology for 3 weeks. Shell wall formation was accomplished by interfacial polymerization of isocyanates delivered through the continuous phase and polyamines from the droplet core. Diethylenetriamine (DETA)-loaded microcapsules were isolated in good yield, exhibiting high thermal and chemical stabilities with extended shelf-lives even when dispersed into a reactive epoxy resin. The polyamine phase is compatible with a variety of basic and hydrophilic actives, suggesting that this encapsulation technology is applicable to other hydrophilic payloads such as polyols, aromatic amines, and aromatic heterocyclic bases. Such payloads are important for the development of extended pot or shelf life systems and responsive coatings that report, protect, modify, and heal themselves without intervention.

A new strategy to sustained release of ocular drugs by one-step drug-loaded microcapsule manufacturing in hydrogel punctal plugs.

PubMed

Xie, Jiajun; Wang, Changjun; Ning, Qingyao; Gao, Qi; Gao, Changyou; Gou, Zhongru; Ye, Juan

2017-11-01

To design an injectable hyaluronate (HA)-based hydrogel system that contains drug-loaded microcapsules as resorbable plugs to deliver ocular drugs. In-situ drug-loaded, core-shell-structured chitosan (CS)@HA microcapsules were fabricated via HA hydrosol collecting in electrospun bead-rich CS fibers under continuous stirring. An injectable and cytocompatible hydrogel system with different degrees of chemical crosslinking maintained viscoelastic and sustained drug release for a long-term period of time at body temperature in vitro. With the addition of adipic dihydrazide (ADH) or 1-Ethyl-3-(3-dimethyllaminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDCI), HA hydrosols transited from liquid to solid state at the gel point, with the G'/G″ ratio varying between 1.43 and 5.32 as a function of crosslinker concentration in the hydrogel phase. Ofloxacin (OFL) release from the mechanically mixed hydrosol system (CS-HA-A0-E0) and the micro-encapsulated hydrosol formulation (CS@HA-A0-E0) were respectively over 80% and 51% of the total drug load leaching out within 24 h. As for the drug-mixed hydrogel systems with low (CS-HA-A0.06-E0.15) and high (CS-HA-A0.06-E0.30) crosslinking density, the OFL release rate reached 38.5 and 46.6% respectively, while the micro-encapsulated hydrogel systems with low (CS@HA-A0.06-E0.15) and high (CS@HA-A0.6-E0.30) showed only (11.9 ± 2.7)% and (17.4 ± 3.5)% drug release respectively. A one-step in-situ drug-capsulizing method is developed to fabricate a resorbable hydrogel punctal plug with extended drug release. The chemistry of the crosslinking reaction involves the formation of highly biocompatible HA derivatives. Thus, the hydrogel can be used directly in the tear drainage canalicular system.

Development of biodegradable drug delivery system to treat addiction.

PubMed

Mandal, T K

1999-06-01

Opiate addiction is a serious problem that has now spread worldwide to all levels of society. Buprenorphine has been used for several years for the treatment of opiate addiction. The objective of this project was to develop sustained-release biodegradable microcapsules for the parenteral delivery of buprenorphine. Biodegradable microcapsules of buprenorphine/poly(lactide-co-glycolide) were prepared using two main procedures based on an in-water drying process in a complex emulsion system. These procedures differ in the way the organic solvent was eliminated: evaporation or extraction. The effect of drug loading and the effect of partial saturation of the aqueous phase with the core material during the in-water solvent evaporation were also studied. The efficiency of encapsulation increased from 11% to 34% when the drug loading was decreased from 20% to 5%. There was no significant change in the efficiency of encapsulation when the aqueous phase was partially saturated with buprenorphine. In changing the solvent removal process from evaporation to extraction, no significant change in the efficiency of encapsulation was observed. The microcapsules prepared by the solvent evaporation were smooth and spherical. However, the microcapsules prepared by the extraction of the organic solvent lost their surface smoothness and became slightly irregular and porous compared with the other batches. The average particle size of the microcapsules was between 14 and 49 microns. The cumulative drug release was between 2% and 4% within the first 24 hr. A sustained drug release continued over 45 days.

Magnetic MOF microreactors for recyclable size-selective biocatalysis† †Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Experimental procedures, calibration curves and additional figures relating to capsule characterisation and biocatalysis. See DOI: 10.1039/c4sc03367a Click here for additional data file.

PubMed Central

Huo, Jia; Aguilera-Sigalat, Jordi; El-Hankari, Samir

2015-01-01

In this contribution we report a synthetic strategy for the encapsulation of functional biomolecules within MOF-based microcapsules. We employ an agarose hydrogel droplet Pickering-stabilised by UiO-66 and magnetite nanoparticles as a template around which to deposit a hierarchically structured ZIF-8 shell. The resulting microcapsules are robust, highly microporous and readily attracted to a magnet, where the hydrogel core provides a facile means to encapsulate enzymes for recyclable size-selective biocatalysis. PMID:28717454

Microparticle Flow Sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R.

2005-01-01

The microparticle flow sensor (MFS) is a system for identifying and counting microscopic particles entrained in a flowing liquid. The MFS includes a transparent, optoelectronically instrumented laminar-flow chamber (see figure) and a computer for processing instrument-readout data. The MFS could be used to count microparticles (including micro-organisms) in diverse applications -- for example, production of microcapsules, treatment of wastewater, pumping of industrial chemicals, and identification of ownership of liquid products.

Layered lipid microcapsules for mesalazine delayed-release in children.

PubMed

Balducci, Anna Giulia; Colombo, Gaia; Corace, Giuseppe; Cavallari, Cristina; Rodriguez, Lorenzo; Buttini, Francesca; Colombo, Paolo; Rossi, Alessandra

2011-12-15

The goal was to make available a delayed-release dosage form of mesalazine to be dispersed in water to facilitate swallowing in adults and children. Mesalazine microparticles containing carnauba wax were prepared by spray-congealing technique. A second step of spray-congealing of carnauba microparticles dispersed in liquefied stearic acid gave rise to mesalazine lipid microcapsules in which several carnauba microparticles remained embedded as cores in a reservoir structure. In order to favor their water dispersion, the lipid microcapsules were dry coated by tumbling them with different ratios of mannitol/lecithin microparticles prepared by spray-drying. Release rate measurements showed a delayed-release behavior, in particular a pH-dependence with less than 10% of drug released in acidic medium and complete release in phosphate buffer pH 7.4 in 4-5h. The layering with hydrophilic excipient microparticles allowed manufacturing of a pH-dependent dosage form suitable for extemporaneous oral use in adults and children. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of Advanced Nuclide Separation and Recovery Methods using Ion-Exchanhge Techniques in Nuclear Backend

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miura, Hitoshi

The development of compact separation and recovery methods using selective ion-exchange techniques is very important for the reprocessing and high-level liquid wastes (HLLWs) treatment in the nuclear backend field. The selective nuclide separation techniques are effective for the volume reduction of wastes and the utilization of valuable nuclides, and expected for the construction of advanced nuclear fuel cycle system and the rationalization of waste treatment. In order to accomplish the selective nuclide separation, the design and synthesis of novel adsorbents are essential for the development of compact and precise separation processes. The present paper deals with the preparation of highly functional and selective hybrid microcapsules enclosing nano-adsorbents in the alginate gel polymer matrices by sol-gel methods, their characterization and the clarification of selective adsorption properties by batch and column methods. The selective separation of Cs, Pd and Re in real HLLW was further accomplished by using novel microcapsules, and an advanced nuclide separation system was proposed by the combination of selective processes using microcapsules.

Fracture-induced mechanophore activation and solvent healing in poly(methyl methacrylate)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Celestine, Asha-Dee N.

Damage detection is a highly desirable functionality in engineering materials. The potential of using mechanophores, stress-sensitive molecules, as material stress sensors has been established through tensile, compressive and shear tests. Spiropyran (SP) has been the chosen mechanophore and this molecule undergoes a ring opening reaction (activation) upon the application of mechanical stress. This activation is accompanied by a change in color and fluorescence as the colorless SP is converted to the highly colored merocyanine (MC) form. One requirement for SP activation in bulk polymers is large scale plastic deformation. In order to induce this plastic deformation during fracture testing of SP-linked brittle polymers such as poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), rubber nanoparticles can be incorporated into the matrix material. These nanoparticles facilitate the increased shear yielding necessary for SP activation during mechanical testing. Cross-linked SP-PMMA, containing 7.3 wt% rubber nanoparticles is synthesized via a free radical polymerization. Specimens of this material are fabricated for Single Edge Notch Tension (SENT) testing. The rubber toughened SP-PMMA specimens are first prestretched to approximately 35% axial strain to align the spiropyran molecules in the direction of applied force and thus increase the likelihood of fracture-induced activation. After prestretching the specimens are pre-notched and irradiated with 532 nm wavelength light to revert the colored merocyanine to the colorless spiropyran form. Specimens are then fracture tested to failure using the SENT test. The evolution of mechanophore activation is monitored via in situ fluorescence imaging and inspection of the specimens after testing. Activation of the SP is observed ahead of the crack tip and along the propagated crack. Also, the degree of activation is found to increase with crack growth and the size of the activation zone is linearly correlated to the size of the plastic zone ahead of the crack tip. Control specimens in which the mechanophore is absent or tethered in positions in which no mechanochemical activation is expected are also tested and exhibit no change in color or fluorescence intensity with crack propagation. The relationship between fracture-induced mechanophore activation in rubber toughened SP-PMMA and the strain and stress ahead of the propagating crack is also studied. SP activation is again detected and quantified by in situ fluorescence imaging. Digital Image Correlation (DIC) is used to measure the strain ahead of the crack tip. The corresponding stress is generated through the use of the Hutchinson-Rice-Rosengren (HRR) singularity field equations. Mechanophore activation ahead of the crack tip is shown to follow a power law distribution that is closely aligned with strain. The potential of SP as a damage sensor is explored further by incorporating the spiropyran into the core of rubber nanoparticles. SP-linked rubber nanoparticles are synthesized using a seeded emulsion polymerization process and incorporated into cross-linked PMMA at a concentration of 5 wt%. Cylindrical specimens are torsion tested and the activation of the SP within the nanoparticles is monitored via full field fluorescence imaging. SP activation within the core is shown to increase with shear strain. Autonomous damage repair in PMMA is also investigated. The first demonstration of fully autonomous self-healing in PMMA is achieved through the use of solvent microcapsules. Solvent microcapsules with a PMMA-anisole liquid core are prepared and embedded within a linear PMMA matrix. Specimens of the microcapsule-loaded material are then fabricated for Double Cleavage Drilled Compression (DCDC) fracture testing. The DCDC specimens, containing increasing concentrations of solvent microcapsules, are tested and then allowed to heal for a fixed period of time before a second DCDC test. The healing efficiency of each material system is evaluated based on the recovery of fracture toughness and is shown to be dependent on healing time and microcapsule concentration. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

New polyurethane/docosane microcapsules as phase-change materials for thermal energy storage.

PubMed

Felix De Castro, Paula; Shchukin, Dmitry G

2015-07-27

Polyurethane microcapsules were prepared by mini-emulsion interfacial polymerization for encapsulation of phase-change material (n-docosane) for energy storage. Three steps were followed with the aim to optimize synthesis conditions of the microcapsules. First, polyurethane microcapsules based on silicone oil core as an inert template with different silicone oil/poly(ethylene glycol)/4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate wt % ratio were synthesized. The surface morphology of the capsules was analyzed by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and the chemical nature of the shell was monitored by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Capsules with the silicone oil/poly(ethylene glycol)/4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate 10/20/20 wt % ratio showed the best morphological features and shell stability with average particle size about 4 μm, and were selected for the microencapsulation of the n-docosane. In the second stage, half of the composition of silicone oil was replaced with n-docosane and, finally, the whole silicone oil content was replaced with docosane following the same synthetic procedure used for silicone oil containing capsules. Thermal and cycling stability of the capsules were investigated by thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and the phase-change behavior was evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Sealing of cracks in cement using microencapsulated sodium silicate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giannaros, P.; Kanellopoulos, A.; Al-Tabbaa, A.

2016-08-01

Cement-based materials possess an inherent autogenous self-healing capability allowing them to seal, and potentially heal, microcracks. This can be improved through the addition of microencapsulated healing agents for autonomic self-healing. The fundamental principle of this self-healing mechanism is that when cracks propagate in the cementitious matrix, they rupture the dispersed capsules and their content (cargo material) is released into the crack volume. Various healing agents have been explored in the literature for their efficacy to recover mechanical and durability properties in cementitious materials. In these materials, the healing agents are most commonly encapsulated in macrocontainers (e.g. glass tubes or capsules) and placed into the material. In this work, microencapsulated sodium silicate in both liquid and solid form was added to cement specimens. Sodium silicate reacts with the calcium hydroxide in hydrated cement paste to form calcium-silicate-hydrate gel that fills cracks. The effect of microcapsule addition on rheological and mechanical properties of cement is reported. It is observed that the microcapsule addition inhibits compressive strength development in cement and this is observed through a plateau in strength between 28 and 56 days. The improvement in crack-sealing for microcapsule-containing specimens is quantified through sorptivity measurements over a 28 day healing period. After just seven days, the addition of 4% microcapsules resulted in a reduction in sorptivity of up to 45% when compared to specimens without any microcapsule addition. A qualitative description of the reaction between the cargo material and the cementitious matrix is also provided using x-ray diffraction analysis.

pH Responsive Microcapsules for Corrosion Control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calle, Luz Marina; Li, Wenyan; Muehlberg, Aaron; Boraas, Samuel; Webster, Dean; JohnstonGelling, Victoria; Croll, Stuart; Taylor, S Ray; Contu, Francesco

2008-01-01

The best coatings for corrosion protection provide not only barriers to the environment, but also a controlled release of a corrosion inhibitor, as demanded by the presence of corrosion or mechanical damage. NASA has developed pH sensitive microcapsules (patent pending) that can release their core contents when corrosion starts. The objectives of the research presented here were to encapsulate non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, to incorporate the encapsulated inhibitors into paint formulations, and to test the ability of the paints to control corrosion. Results showed that the encapsulated corrosion inhibitors, specifically Ce(NO3)3 , are effective to control corrosion over long periods of time when incorporated at relatively high pigment volume concentrations into a paint formulation.

Emerging Technologies: Something Borrowed, Something New

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heinhorst, Sabine; Cannon, Gordon

1999-04-01

The cover of the July 16, 1998 issue of Nature features a remarkable new "smart material" that can be used to print electronically on a variety of surfaces, including paper, plastic, and metal. The electrophoretic ink developed in J. Jacobson's lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology consists of liquid with dispersed, oppositely charged black and white microparticles that are contained in microcapsules. Application of a potential results in migration of the microparticles to opposite sides of the microcapsule, thereby generating either a white or black image that depends on the direction of the potential. Unlike liquid crystal displays, the image generated with electrophoretic ink is stable even after the power has been turned off. Cost and resolution of this new technology compare favorably with most other electronic image display systems currently in use or under development. Promising applications for electrophoretic ink in the future may range from street signs to electronic books (Comiskey et al., Vol. 394, pp 253-255; "News and Views" commentary by R. Wisnieff on pp 225-227).

Layer-by-layer assembled biopolymer microcapsule with separate layer cavities generated by gas-liquid microfluidic approach.

PubMed

Wang, Yifeng; Zhou, Jing; Guo, Xuecheng; Hu, Qian; Qin, Chaoran; Liu, Hui; Dong, Meng; Chen, Yanjun

2017-12-01

In this work, a layer-by-layer (LbL) assembled biopolymer microcapsule with separate layer cavities is generated by a novel and convenient gas-liquid microfluidic approach. This approach exhibits combined advantages of microfluidic approach and LbL assembly method, and it can straightforwardly build LbL-assembled capsules in mild aqueous environments at room temperature. In particular, using this approach we can build the polyelectrolyte multilayer capsule with favorable cavities in each layer, and without the need for organic solvent, emulsifying agent, or sacrificial template. Various components (e.g., drugs, proteins, fluorescent dyes, and nanoparticles) can be respectively encapsulated in the separate layer cavities of the LbL-assembled capsules. Moreover, the encapsulated capsules present the ability as colorimetric sensors, and they also exhibit the interesting release behavior. Therefore, the LbL-assembled biopolymer capsule is a promising candidate for biomedical applications in targeted delivery, controlled release, and bio-detection. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Polymerizable Molecular Silsesquioxane Cage Armored Hybrid Microcapsules with In Situ Shell Functionalization.

PubMed

Xing, Yuxiu; Peng, Jun; Xu, Kai; Lin, Weihong; Gao, Shuxi; Ren, Yuanyuan; Gui, Xuefeng; Liang, Shengyuan; Chen, Mingcai

2016-02-01

We prepared core-shell polymer-silsesquioxane hybrid microcapsules from cage-like methacryloxypropyl silsesquioxanes (CMSQs) and styrene (St). The presence of CMSQ can moderately reduce the interfacial tension between St and water and help to emulsify the monomer prior to polymerization. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) and TEM analysis demonstrated that uniform core-shell latex particles were achieved. The polymer latex particles were subsequently transformed into well-defined hollow nanospheres by removing the polystyrene (PS) core with 1:1 ethanol/cyclohexane. High-resolution TEM and nitrogen adsorption-desorption analysis showed that the final nanospheres possessed hollow cavities and had porous shells; the pore size was approximately 2-3 nm. The nanospheres exhibited large surface areas (up to 486 m 2  g -1 ) and preferential adsorption, and they demonstrated the highest reported methylene blue adsorption capacity (95.1 mg g -1 ). Moreover, the uniform distribution of the methacryloyl moiety on the hollow nanospheres endowed them with more potential properties. These results could provide a new benchmark for preparing hollow microspheres by a facile one-step template-free method for various applications. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Formulation for Oral Delivery of Lactoferrin Based on Bovine Serum Albumin and Tannic Acid Multilayer Microcapsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kilic, Ece; Novoselova, Marina V.; Lim, Su Hui; Pyataev, Nikolay A.; Pinyaev, Sergey I.; Kulikov, Oleg A.; Sindeeva, Olga A.; Mayorova, Oksana A.; Murney, Regan; Antipina, Maria N.; Haigh, Brendan; Sukhorukov, Gleb B.; Kiryukhin, Maxim V.

2017-03-01

Lactoferrin (Lf) has considerable potential as a functional ingredient in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. However, the bioavailability of Lf is limited as it is susceptible to digestive enzymes in gastrointestinal tract. The shells comprising alternate layers of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and tannic acid (TA) were tested as Lf encapsulation system for oral administration. Lf absorption by freshly prepared porous 3 μm CaCO3 particles followed by Layer-by-Layer assembly of the BSA-TA shells and dissolution of the CaCO3 cores was suggested as the most efficient and harmless Lf loading method. The microcapsules showed high stability in gastric conditions and effectively protected encapsulated proteins from digestion. Protective efficiency was found to be 76 ± 6% and 85 ± 2%, for (BSA-TA)4 and (BSA-TA)8 shells, respectively. The transit of Lf along the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) of mice was followed in vivo and ex vivo using NIR luminescence. We have demonstrated that microcapsules released Lf in small intestine allowing 6.5 times higher concentration than in control group dosed with the same amount of free Lf. Significant amounts of Lf released from microcapsules were then absorbed into bloodstream and accumulated in liver. Suggested encapsulation system has a great potential for functional foods providing lactoferrin.

The optimal extracting process, manufacturing technique and biological evaluation of Lithospermum erythrorhizon microcapsules.

PubMed

Lou, Ching-Wen; Chang, Chiung-Yun; Wu, Zong-Han; Lin, Jia-Horng

2015-03-01

Lithospermum erythrorhizon has been proved to be anti-inflammatory, by recent studies. This study extracts L. erythrorhizon with ethanol at various solid-liquid ratios (1:4, 1:6, 1:8, and 1:12), extraction temperatures (40°C, 50°C, and 60°C), and extraction times (4, 24 and 36h) in order to determine the optimal parameters. The optimal parameters are extracted and condensed into L. erythrorhizon extract; then the antibacterial property and cell compatibility of L. erythrorhizon extract are evaluated with various concentrations of L. erythrorhizon extract solution and different weights of L. erythrorhizon extract powder, respectively. The concentrations of solution are 0.1mg/ml, 0.5mg/ml, 1.0mg/ml, and 2.0mg/ml and ethanol is chosen as the solvent, and different weights of powder are varied as 0.1mg, 1.0mg, 2.0mg, and 10mg. The cell viability test and animal study are performed on L. erythrorhizon microcapsules. The experiment results show that sodium alginate/pectin L. erythrorhizon (SPL) microcapsules possess a 120-hour drug release. The results of cell viability and animal study show that the L. erythrorhizon microcapsules (SPL) have good cell viability (99%) and can help in the wound healing process (the wound size reduction reaches 91.3% on Day 11). Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

3D in vitro co-culture models based on normal cells and tumor spheroids formed by cyclic RGD-peptide induced cell self-assembly.

PubMed

Akasov, Roman; Gileva, Anastasia; Zaytseva-Zotova, Daria; Burov, Sergey; Chevalot, Isabelle; Guedon, Emmanuel; Markvicheva, Elena

2017-01-01

To design novel 3D in vitro co-culture models based on the RGD-peptide-induced cell self-assembly technique. Multicellular spheroids from M-3 murine melanoma cells and L-929 murine fibroblasts were obtained directly from monolayer culture by addition of culture medium containing cyclic RGD-peptide. To reach reproducible architecture of co-culture spheroids, two novel 3D in vitro models with well pronounced core-shell structure from tumor spheroids and single mouse fibroblasts were developed based on this approach. The first was a combination of a RGD-peptide platform with the liquid overlay technique with further co-cultivation for 1-2 days. The second allowed co-culture spheroids to generate within polyelectrolyte microcapsules by cultivation for 2 weeks. M-3 cells (a core) and L-929 fibroblasts (a shell) were easily distinguished by confocal microscopy due to cell staining with DiO and DiI dyes, respectively. The 3D co-culture spheroids are proposed as a tool in tumor biology to study cell-cell interactions as well as for testing novel anticancer drugs and drug delivery vehicles.

Controlled release of Pantoea agglomerans E325 for biocontrol of fire blight

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Microencapsulation and controlled release of Pantoea agglomerans strain E325 (E325), which is an antagonist to bacterial pathogen (Erwinia amylovora) of fire blight, a devastating disease of apple and pear, have been investigated. Uniform core-shell alginate microcapsules (AMCs), 60-300 µm in diamet...

Polyfibroblast: A Self-Healing and Galvanic Protection Additive

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-01-25

flour , the rapid addition of liquid created lumps in the powder that were difficult to remove. This issue did not appear to result from the material...probably the worst thing that one can do to the self-healing primer. Small scratches will prematurely rupture the microcapsules that tend to be enriched

Development of Capsular Adhesive Systems and Evaluation of Their Stability.

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-07-26

Adhesives; Microencapsulation processes, Epoxy resins, Anaerobic systems, Characterization, Microcapsules properties, Stability, Liquid Chromatography...II. TECHNICAL DISCUSSION ................... 5 A. Complementary microencapsulation stu- dies ............................... 5 1...initial phase of this program (1), studies on microencapsulation of adhesive systems were conducted in which the capsule shells are made from the

Facile and low energy consumption synthesis of microencapsulated phase change materials with hybrid shell for thermal energy storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Hao; Zhao, Liang; Chen, Lijie; Song, Guolin; Tang, Guoyi

2017-12-01

We designed a photocurable pickering emulsion polymerization to create microencapsulated phase change materials (MicroPCM) with polymer-silica hybrid shell. The emulsion was stabilized by modified SiO2 particles without any surfactant or dispersant. The polymerization process can be carried out at ambient temperature only for 5 min ultraviolet radiation, which is a low-energy procedure. The resultant capsules were shown a good core-shell structure and uniform in size. The surface of the microcapsules was covered by SiO2 particles. According to the DSC and TGA examinations, the microcapsules has good thermal energy storage-release performance, enhanced thermal reliability and thermal stability. When ratio of MMA/n-octadecane was 1.5/1.5. The encapsulation efficiency of the microcapsules reached 62.55%, accompanied with 122.31 J/g melting enthalpy. The work is virtually applicable to the construction of a wide variety of organic-inorganic hybrid shell MicroPCM. Furthermore, with the application of this method, exciting opportunities may arise for realizing rapid, continuous and large-scale industrial preparation of MicroPCM.

Fabrication and physical-chemical characterisation of polyelectrolyte microparticles: platform for controlled release of bioactives.

PubMed

Sun, Yuhui; Travas-Sejdic, Jadranka; Wen, Jingyuan; Alany, Raid G

2009-08-01

Porous CaCO(3) microparticles were fabricated by colloidal crystallization. Two oppositely charged polyelectrolytes, poly (styrene sulfonate, PSS) and poly (allylamine hydrochloride, PAH) were adsorbed layer-by-layer on the CaCO(3) templates. Polyelectrolyte microcapsules were then obtained by removing the CaCO(3) core. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersion X-ray analysis (EDX), laser diffraction particle sizing and Raman spectroscopy were employed to characterize the physico-chemical properties of the constructed microcapsules. In vitro drug release studies were conducted using the model water-soluble drug Rhodamine B. Factors such as the number of polyelectrolyte layers and pH were investigated. SEM micrographs revealed uniform CaCO(3) microparticles, nearly spherical in shape with pronounced surface roughness, and highly developed interior porous structure. The surface of polyelectrolyte coated particles became rougher than the initial CaCO(3) microparticles. The acquired SEM micrographs of the (PSS/PAH)(n) microcapsules indicated that the number of layers affected the morphology of the microcapsules. The (PSS/PAH)(3) microcapsules revealed a very porous network with many holes resembling the initial morphology of CaCO(3) microparticles. Raman spectra showed peaks at 1125 cm(-1) (S=O bond) and 1600 cm(-1) (aromatic ring stretching) which represented the PSS molecule. The thickness of each layer was about 10 to 20 nm and it can be tailored to such nanometer level by controlling the number of adsorbed layers. The in vitro release of Rhodamine B was dependent on both the number of wall bilayers as well as the pH of the release media. These systems provide an opportunity for the development of controlled release dosage forms with greater effectiveness in the treatment of chronic conditions.

Physicochemical Characteristics and Slow Release Performances of Chlorpyrifos Encapsulated by Poly(butyl acrylate-co-styrene) with the Cross-Linker Ethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate.

PubMed

Wang, Yu; Gao, Zideng; Shen, Feng; Li, Yang; Zhang, Sainan; Ren, Xueqin; Hu, Shuwen

2015-06-03

Chlorpyrifos' application and delivery to the target substrate needs to be controlled to improve its use. Herein, poly(butyl acrylate-co-styrene) (poly(BA/St)) and poly(BA/St/ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA)) microcapsules loaded with chlorpyrifos as a slow release formulation were prepared by emulsion polymerization. The effects of structural characteristics on the chlorpyrifos microcapsule particle size, entrapment rate (ER), pesticide loading (PL), and release behaviors in ethyl alcohol were investigated. Fourier transform infrared and thermogravimetric analysis confirmed the successful entrapment of chlorpyrifos. The ER and PL varied with the BA/St monomer ratio, chlorpyrifos/monomer core-to-shell ratio, and EGDMA cross-linker content with consequence that suitable PL was estimated to be smaller than 3.09% and the highest ER was observed as 96.74%. The microcapsule particle size (88.36-101.8 nm) remained mostly constant. The extent of sustainable release decreased with increasing content of BA, St, or chlorpyrifos in the oil phase. Specifically, an adequate degree of cross-linking with EGMDA (0.5-2.5%) increased the extent of sustainable release considerably. However, higher levels of cross-linking with EGDMA (5-10%) reduced the extent of sustainable release. Chlorpyrifos release from specific microcapsules (monomer ratio 1:2 with 0.5% EGDMA or 5 g chlopyrifos) tended to be a diffusion-controlled process, while for others, the kinetics probably indicated the initial rupture release.

Comparison of Calcium and Barium Microcapsules as Scaffolds in the Development of Artificial Dermal Papillae.

PubMed

Liu, Yang; Lin, Changmin; Zeng, Yang; Li, Haihong; Cai, Bozhi; Huang, Keng; Yuan, Yanping; Li, Yu

2016-01-01

This study aimed to develop and evaluate barium and calcium microcapsules as candidates for scaffolding in artificial dermal papilla. Dermal papilla cells (DPCs) were isolated and cultured by one-step collagenase treatment. The DPC-Ba and DPC-Ca microcapsules were prepared by using a specially designed, high-voltage, electric-field droplet generator. Selected microcapsules were assessed for long-term inductive properties with xenotransplantation into Sprague-Dawley rat ears. Both barium and calcium microcapsules maintained xenogenic dermal papilla cells in an immunoisolated environment and induced the formation of hair follicle structures. Calcium microcapsules showed better biocompatibility, permeability, and cell viability in comparison with barium microcapsules. Before 18 weeks, calcium microcapsules gathered together, with no substantial immune response. After 32 weeks, some microcapsules were near inflammatory cells and wrapped with fiber. A few large hair follicles were found. Control samples showed no marked changes at the implantation site. Barium microcapsules were superior to calcium microcapsules in structural and mechanical stability. The cells encapsulated in hydrogel barium microcapsules exhibited higher short-term viability. This study established a model to culture DPCs in 3D culture conditions. Barium microcapsules may be useful in short-term transplantation study. Calcium microcapsules may provide an effective scaffold for the development of artificial dermal papilla.

Microencapsulation system and method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R. (Inventor)

2006-01-01

A microencapsulation apparatus is provided which is configured to form co-axial multi-lamellar microcapsules from materials discharged from first and second microsphere dispensers of the apparatus. A method of fabricating and processing microcapsules is also provided which includes forming distinct droplets comprising one or more materials and introducing the droplets directly into a solution bath to form a membrane around the droplets such that a plurality of microcapsules are formed. A microencapsulation system is provided which includes a microcapsule production unit, a fluidized passage for washing and harvesting microcapsules dispensed from the microcapsule production unit and a flow sensor for sizing and counting the microcapsules. In some embodiments, the microencapsulation system may further include a controller configured to simultaneously operate the microcapsule production unit, fluidized passage and flow sensor to process the microcapsules in a continuous manner.

Microencapsulation system and method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R. (Inventor)

2009-01-01

A microencapsulation apparatus is provided which is configured to form co-axial multi-lamellar microcapsules from materials discharged from first and second microsphere dispensers of the apparatus. A method of fabricating and processing microcapsules is also provided which includes forming distinct droplets comprising one or more materials and introducing the droplets directly into a solution bath to form a membrane around the droplets such that a plurality of microcapsules are formed. A microencapsulation system is provided which includes a microcapsule production unit, a fluidized passage for washing and harvesting microcapsules dispensed from the microcapsule production unit and a flow sensor for sizing and counting the microcapsules. In some embodiments, the microencapsulation system may further include a controller configured to simultaneously operate the microcapsule production unit, fluidized passage and flow sensor to process the microcapsules in a continuous manner.

Alginate/sodium caseinate aqueous-core capsules: a pH-responsive matrix.

PubMed

Ben Messaoud, Ghazi; Sánchez-González, Laura; Jacquot, Adrien; Probst, Laurent; Desobry, Stéphane

2015-02-15

Alginate capsules have several applications. Their functionality depends considerably on their permeability, chemical and mechanical stability. Consequently, the creation of composite system by addition of further components is expected to control mechanical and release properties of alginate capsules. Alginate and alginate-sodium caseinate composite liquid-core capsules were prepared by a simple extrusion. The influence of the preparation pH and sodium caseinate concentration on capsules physico-chemical properties was investigated. Results showed that sodium caseinate influenced significantly capsules properties. As regards to the membrane mechanical stability, composite capsules prepared at pH below the isoelectric point of sodium caseinate exhibited the highest surface Young's modulus, increasing with protein content, explained by potential electrostatic interactions between sodium caseinate amino-groups and alginate carboxylic group. The kinetic of cochineal red A release changed significantly for composite capsules and showed a pH-responsive release. Sodium caseinate-dye mixture studied by absorbance and fluorescence spectroscopy confirmed complex formation at pH 2 by electrostatic interactions between sodium caseinate tryptophan residues and cochineal red sulfonate-groups. Consequently, the release mechanism was explained by membrane adsorption process. This global approach is useful to control release mechanism from macro and micro-capsules by incorporating guest molecules which can interact with the entrapped molecule under specific conditions. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

pH-Controlled Bacillus thuringiensis Cry1Ac Protoxin Loading and Release from Polyelectrolyte Microcapsules

PubMed Central

Yang, Wenhui; He, Kanglai; Zhang, Jie; Guo, Shuyuan

2012-01-01

Crystal proteins synthesized by Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have been used as biopesticides because of their toxicity to the insect larval hosts. To protect the proteins from environmental stress to extend their activity, we have developed a new microcapsule formulation. Poly (acrylic acid) (PAH) and poly (styrene sulfonate) (PSS) were fabricated through layer-by-layer self-assembly based on a CaCO3 core. Cry1Ac protoxins were loaded into microcapsules through layer-by-layer self-assembly at low pH, and the encapsulated product was stored in water at 4°C. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the morphology of the capsules. To confirm the successful encapsulation, the loading results were observed with a confocal laser scattering microscope (CLSM), using fluorescein-labeled Cry1Ac protoxin (FITC-Cry1Ac). The protoxins were released from the capsule under the alkaline condition corresponding to the midgut of certain insects, a condition which seldom exists elsewhere in the environment. The following bioassay experiment demonstrated that the microcapsules with Cry1Ac protoxins displayed approximately equivalent insecticidal activity to the Asian corn borer compared with free Cry1Ac protoxins, and empty capsules proved to have no effect on insects. Further result also indicated that the formulation could keep stable under the condition of heat and desiccation. These results suggest that this formulation provides a promising methodology that protects protoxins from the environment and releases them specifically in the target insects’ midgut, which has shown potential as biopesticide in the field. PMID:23024810

Architecture, Assembly, and Emerging Applications of Branched Functional Polyelectrolytes and Poly(ionic liquid)s.

PubMed

Xu, Weinan; Ledin, Petr A; Shevchenko, Valery V; Tsukruk, Vladimir V

2015-06-17

Branched polyelectrolytes with cylindrical brush, dendritic, hyperbranched, grafted, and star architectures bearing ionizable functional groups possess complex and unique assembly behavior in solution at surfaces and interfaces as compared to their linear counterparts. This review summarizes the recent developments in the introduction of various architectures and understanding of the assembly behavior of branched polyelectrolytes with a focus on functional polyelectrolytes and poly(ionic liquid)s with responsive properties. The branched polyelectrolytes and poly(ionic liquid)s interact electrostatically with small molecules, linear polyelectrolytes, or other branched polyelectrolytes to form assemblies of hybrid nanoparticles, multilayer thin films, responsive microcapsules, and ion-conductive membranes. The branched structures lead to unconventional assemblies and complex hierarchical structures with responsive properties as summarized in this review. Finally, we discuss prospectives for emerging applications of branched polyelectrolytes and poly(ionic liquid)s for energy harvesting and storage, controlled delivery, chemical microreactors, adaptive surfaces, and ion-exchange membranes.

Preparation of inorganic/organic polymer hybrid microcapsules with high encapsulation efficiency by an electrospray technique.

PubMed

Yunoki, Ayumi; Tsuchiya, Eiko; Fukui, Yu; Fujii, Akihiro; Maruyama, Tatsuo

2014-08-13

Microcapsules composed of calcium phosphate and chitosan were prepared in a single step by electrospraying. An aqueous solution containing calcium chloride and chitosan was electrosprayed into a phosphate solution to form a calcium phosphate shell on the sprayed droplets. The resulting microcapsules were 350 μm in average diameter. Investigation using fluorescently labeled chitosan and XRD measurements revealed that the shells of the microcapsules were composed of calcium phosphate (mainly hydroxyapatite) and chitosan. Instead of chitosan, poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) and polyethylene glycol were also available for microcapsule production by electrospraying. Variations in the electrospraying conditions resulted in a variety of microcapsule shapes. Various types of substrates were successfully encapsulated in microcapsules with a high encapsulation efficiency (more than 80%). Finally, we succeeded in the encapsulation of living yeast cells in microcapsules, and observed their growth within these microcapsules.

Encapsulation of high temperature molten salts

DOEpatents

Oxley, James D.; Mathur, Anoop Kumar

2017-05-16

The present disclosure relates to a method of encapsulating microcapsules containing relatively high temperature phase change materials and the microcapsules so produced. The microcapsules are coated with an inorganic binder, film former and an inorganic filler. The microcapsules may include a sacrificial layer that is disposed between the particle and the coating. The microcapsules may also include an inner coating layer, sacrificial layer and outer coating layer. The microcapsules are particularly useful for thermal energy storage in connection with, e.g., heat collected from concentrating solar collectors.

Target-molecule-triggered rupture of aptamer-encapsulated polyelectrolyte microcapsules.

PubMed

Zhang, Xueru; Chabot, Denise; Sultan, Yasir; Monreal, Carlos; DeRosa, Maria C

2013-06-26

Polyelectrolyte microcapsules have great potential for serving as carriers for the delivery of their contents when triggered by an external stimulus. Aptamers are synthetic ssDNA or RNA that can bind to specific targets with high affinity and selectivity. Aptamers may retain these superior molecular recognition properties after encapsulation within polymer microcapsules. In this work, stable polyelectrolyte microcapsules with encapsulated aptamers were obtained by the layer-by-layer (LbL) method. Polyelectrolyte films were deposited onto a CaCO3 template that had been predoped with polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) and aptamer sequences (SA) that have an affinity for the dye sulforhodamine B (SRB). The PSS and aptamers are thought to serve as an internal scaffold supporting the microcapsule walls. These microcapsules would present target-molecule-triggered rupture properties. Microcapsule collapse was triggered by the binding of SRB to the encapsulated aptamer. The specificity of microcapsule collapse was investigated using a similar dye, tetramethylrosamine (TMR), which does not have affinity for SA. A high concentration of TMR did not lead to the collapse of the microcapsules. The effect of target binding on the microcapsules was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). These microcapsules may have potential applications in targeted delivery systems for the controlled release of drugs, pesticides, or other payloads.

Bioinspired Layer-by-Layer Microcapsules Based on Cellulose Nanofibers with Switchable Permeability.

PubMed

Paulraj, Thomas; Riazanova, Anastasia V; Yao, Kun; Andersson, Richard L; Müllertz, Anette; Svagan, Anna J

2017-04-10

Green, all-polysaccharide based microcapsules with mechanically robust capsule walls and fast, stimuli-triggered, and switchable permeability behavior show great promise in applications based on selective and timed permeability. Taking a cue from nature, the build-up and composition of plant primary cell walls inspired the capsule wall assembly, because the primary cell walls in plants exhibit high mechanical properties despite being in a highly hydrated state, primarily owing to cellulose microfibrils. The microcapsules (16 ± 4 μm in diameter) were fabricated using the layer-by-layer technique on sacrificial CaCO 3 templates, using plant polysaccharides (pectin, cellulose nanofibers, and xyloglucan) only. In water, the capsule wall was permeable to labeled dextrans with a hydrodynamic diameter of ∼6.6 nm. Upon exposure to NaCl, the porosity of the capsule wall quickly changed allowing larger molecules (∼12 nm) to permeate. However, the porosity could be restored to its original state by removal of NaCl, by which permeants became trapped inside the capsule's core. The high integrity of cell wall was due to the CNF and the ON/OFF alteration of the permeability properties, and subsequent loading/unloading of molecules, could be repeated several times with the same capsule demonstrating a robust microcontainer with controllable permeability properties.

Designing carboxymethyl cellulose based layer-by-layer capsules as a carrier for protein delivery.

PubMed

Tripathy, Jasaswini; Raichur, Ashok M

2013-01-01

Stable hollow microcapsules composed of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and poly (allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) were produced by layer-by-layer adsorption of polyelectrolytes onto CaCO(3) microparticles. Subsequently the core was removed by addition of chelating agents for calcium ions. Zeta potential studies showed charge reversal with deposition of successive polyelectrolyte layers, indicating that the alternate electrostatic adsorption of polyelectrolytes of opposite charge was successfully achieved. The size and surface morphology of the capsules was characterized by various microscopy techniques. The pH responsive loading behavior was elucidated by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) studies using fluorescence labeled dextran (FITC-dextran) and labeled BSA (FITC-BSA). CLSM images confirmed the open (pH≤6) and closed state (pH≥7) of the capsules. A model drug bovine serum albumin (BSA) was spontaneously loaded below its isoelectric point into hollow microcapsules, where BSA is positively charged. The loading of the BSA into the microcapsules was found to be dependent on the feeding concentration and pH of the medium. 65% of the loaded BSA was released over 7h of which about 34% was released in the first hour. These findings demonstrate that (CMC/PAH)(2) hollow capsules can be further exploited as a potential drug delivery system. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of prolonged gelling time on the intrinsic properties of barium alginate microcapsules and its biocompatibility.

PubMed

Vaithilingam, Vijayaganapathy; Kollarikova, Gabriella; Qi, Meirigeng; Lacik, Igor; Oberholzer, Jose; Guillemin, Gilles J; Tuch, Bernard E

2011-01-01

Pericapsular fibrotic overgrowth (PFO) may be attributed to an immune response against microcapsules themselves or to antigen shedding through microcapsule pores from encapsulated islet tissue. Modification of microcapsules aimed at reducing pore size should prevent PFO and improve graft survival. This study investigated the effect of increased gelling time (20 vs. 2 min) in barium chloride on intrinsic properties of alginate microcapsules and tested their biocompatibility in vivo. Prolonged gelling time affected neither permeability nor size of the microcapsules. However, prolonged gelling time for 20 min produced brittle microcapsules compared to 2 min during compression test. Encapsulation of human islets in both types of microcapsules affected neither islet viability nor function. The presence of PFO when transplanted into a large animal model such as baboon and its absence in small animal models such as rodents suggest that the host immune response towards alginate microcapsules is species rather than alginate specific.

Processes in suspensions of nanocomposite microcapsules exposed to external electric fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ermakov, A. V.; Lomova, M. V.; Kim, V. P.; Chumakov, A. S.; Gorbachev, I. A.; Gorin, D. A.; Glukhovskoy, E. G.

2016-04-01

Microcapsules with and without magnetite nanoparticles incorporated in the polyelectrolyte shell were prepared. The effect of external electric field on the nanocomposite polyelectrolyte microcapsules containing magnetite nanoparticles in the shell was studied in this work as a function of the electric field strength. Effect of electric fields on polyelectrolyte microcapsules and the control over integrity of polyelectrolyte microcapsules with and without inorganic nanoparticles by constant electric field has been investigated. Beads effect, aggregation and deformations of nanocomposite microcapsule shell in response to electric field were observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Thus, a new approach for effect on the nanocomposite microcapsule, including opening microcapsule shell by an electric field, was demonstrated. These results can be used for creation of new systems for drug delivery systems with controllable release by external electric field.

Hydroxyapatite-armored poly(ε-caprolactone) microspheres and hydroxyapatite microcapsules fabricated via a Pickering emulsion route.

PubMed

Fujii, Syuji; Okada, Masahiro; Nishimura, Taiki; Maeda, Hayata; Sugimoto, Tatsuya; Hamasaki, Hiroyuki; Furuzono, Tsutomu; Nakamura, Yoshinobu

2012-05-15

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanoparticle-armored poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) microspheres were fabricated via a "Pickering-type" emulsion solvent evaporation method in the absence of any molecular surfactants. It was clarified that the interaction between carbonyl/carboxylic acid groups of PCL and the HAp nanoparticles at an oil-water interface played a crucial role in the preparation of the stable Pickering-type emulsions and the HAp nanoparticle-armored microspheres. The HAp nanoparticle-armored PCL microspheres were characterized in terms of size, size distribution, morphology, and chemical compositions using scanning electron microscopy, laser diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. The presence of HAp nanoparticles at the surface of the microspheres was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis. Pyrolysis of the PCL cores led to the formation of the corresponding HAp hollow microcapsules. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Microfluidic Synthesis of Ca-Alginate Microcapsules for Self-Healing of Bituminous Binder.

PubMed

Shu, Benan; Wu, Shaopeng; Dong, Lijie; Wang, Qing; Liu, Quantao

2018-04-19

This work aims to develop an original alginate micro-emulsion combining with droplets microfluidic method to produce multinuclear Ca-alginate microcapsules containing rejuvenator for the self-healing of bituminous binder. The sizes of the Ca-alginate microcapsules could be easily controlled by tuning flow rates of the continuous and dispersed phases. The addition of a surfactant Tween80 not only improved the stability of the emulsion, but it also effectively reduced the size of the microcapsules. Size predictive mathematical model of the microcapsules was proposed through the analysis of fluid force. Optical microscope and remote Fourier infrared test confirmed the multinuclear structure of Ca-alginate microcapsules. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the microcapsules coated with nearly 40% rejuvenator and they remained intact during the preparation of bitumen specimen at 135 °C. Micro self-healing process of bituminous binder with multinuclear Ca-alginate microcapsules containing rejuvenator was monitored and showed enhanced self-healing performance. Tensile stress-recovery test revealed that the recovery rate increased by 32.08% (in the case of 5% microcapsules), which meant that the Ca-alginate microcapsules containing rejuvenator could effectively enhance the self-healing property of bituminous binder.

Surface modification of self-healing poly(urea-formaldehyde) microcapsules using silane-coupling agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Haiyan; Wang, Rongguo; Hu, Honglin; Liu, Wenbo

2008-12-01

Poly(urea-formaldehyde) (PUF) microcapsules, which are used as self-healing component of fibre reinforced resin matrix composites, were prepared by in situ polymerization method. The surface of PUF microcapsules was modified by using 3-aminopropyltriethoxy silane-coupling agent (KH550), and the interfacial interactions between PUF microcapsules and KH550 was also studied. Fourier transform infrared spectra (FT-IR) and X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) analyses showed that the silane-coupling agent molecular binds strongly to PUF microcapsules surface. Chemical bond (Si-O-C) was formed by the reaction between Si-OH and the hydroxyl group of PUF microcapsules, also there have chemical adsorption effect in the interface simultaneously because of the existence of hydrogen bond between Si-OH and the hydroxyl group of PUF microcapsules. Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) observation showed that a thin layer was formed on the surface of modified PUF microcapsules. Additionally, fractured surface were observed under SEM to investigate the interfacial adhesion effect between PUF microcapsules and epoxy matrix. The result indicted that the silane-coupling agent play an important role in improving the interfacial performance between microcapsules and resin matrix.

Synthesis and characterization of melamine-urea-formaldehyde microcapsules containing ENB-based self-healing agents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xing; Sheng, Xia; Lee, Jong Keun; Kessler, Michael R.

2007-07-01

Microcapsules for self-healing applications were produced with a melamine-urea-formaldehyde (MUF) polymer shell containing two different healing agent candidates, ENB (5-ethylidene-2-norbornene) and ENB with 10 wt.% of a norbornene based crosslinking agent (CL), by in-situ polymerization in an oil-in-water emulsion. Relatively neat outer surfaces with minor roughness were observed on the MUF microcapsules under optical and scanning electron microscopy. Shell thickness of the capsules ranged from 700 to 900 nm. Particle size analysis of the microcapsules showed narrow size distributions with a mean diameter of 113 μm for ENB-filled and 122 μm for ENB+CL-filled microcapsules at an agitation rate of 500 rpm. The microcapsules were found to be thermally stable up to 300°C and exhibited a 10 to 15 % weight loss when isothermally held at 150°C for 2 hr from thermogravimetric analysis. Overall, these MUF microcapsules exhibited superior properties compared to the urea-formaldehyde (UF) microcapsules used extensively for self-healing composites to date. In addition, the manufacturing process of MUF microcapsules is much simpler than those made from UF. Additional advantages of MUF microcapsules for self-healing composites are discussed.

Smart Coatings for Launch Site Corrosion Protection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calle, Luz M.

2014-01-01

Smart, environmentally friendly paint system for early corrosion detection, mitigation, and healing that will enable supportability in KSC launch facilities and ground systems through their operational life cycles. KSC's Corrosion Technology Laboratory is developing a smart, self-healing coating that can detect and repair corrosion at an early stage. This coating is being developed using microcapsules specifically designed to deliver the contents of their core when corrosion starts.

Cellular uptake of poly(allylamine hydrochloride) microcapsules with different deformability and its influence on cell functions.

PubMed

Yu, Wei; Zhang, Wenbo; Chen, Ying; Song, Xiaoxue; Tong, Weijun; Mao, Zhengwei; Gao, Changyou

2016-03-01

It is important to understand the safety issue and cell interaction pattern of polyelectrolyte microcapsules with different deformability before their use in biomedical applications. In this study, SiO2, poly(sodium-p-styrenesulfonate) (PSS) doped CaCO3 and porous CaCO3 spheres, all about 4μm in diameter, were used as templates to prepare microcapsules with different inner structure and subsequent deformability. As a result, three kinds of covalently assembled poly(allylaminehydrochloride)/glutaraldehyde (PAH/GA) microcapsules with similar size but different deformability under external osmotic pressure were prepared. The impact of different microcapsules on cell viability and functions are studied using smooth muscle cells (SMCs), endothelial cells (ECs) and HepG2 cells. The results demonstrated that viabilities of SMCs, ECs and HepG2 cells were not significantly influenced by either of the three kinds of microcapsules. However, the adhesion ability of SMCs and ECs as well as the mobility of SMCs, ECs and HepG2 cells were significantly impaired after treatment with microcapsules in a deformability dependent manner, especially the microcapsules with lower deformability caused higher impairment on cell functions. The cellular uptake kinetics, uptake pathways, intracellular distribution of microcapsules are further investigated in SMCs to reveal the potential mechanism. The SMCs showed faster uptake rate and exocytosis rate of microcapsules with lower deformability (Cap@CaCO3/PSS and Cap@CaCO3), leading to higher intracellular accumulation of microcapsules with lower deformability and possibly larger retardation of cell functions. The results pointed out that the deformability of microcapsules is an important factor governing the biological performance of microcapsules, which requires careful adjustment for further biomedical applications. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Protein encapsulation via porous CaCO3 microparticles templating.

PubMed

Volodkin, Dmitry V; Larionova, Natalia I; Sukhorukov, Gleb B

2004-01-01

Porous microparticles of calcium carbonate with an average diameter of 4.75 microm were prepared and used for protein encapsulation in polymer-filled microcapsules by means of electrostatic layer-by-layer assembly (ELbL). Loading of macromolecules in porous CaCO3 particles is affected by their molecular weight due to diffusion-limited permeation inside the particles and also by the affinity to the carbonate surface. Adsorption of various proteins and dextran was examined as a function of pH and was found to be dependent both on the charge of the microparticles and macromolecules. The electrostatic effect was shown to govern this interaction. This paper discusses the factors which can influence the adsorption capacity of proteins. A new way of protein encapsulation in polyelectrolyte microcapsules is proposed exploiting the porous, biocompatible, and decomposable microparticles from CaCO3. It consists of protein adsorption in the pores of the microparticles followed by ELbL of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes and further core dissolution. This resulted in formation of polyelectrolyte-filled capsules with protein incorporated in interpenetrating polyelectrolyte network. The properties of CaCO3 microparticles and capsules prepared were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, microelectrophoresis, and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Lactalbumin was encapsulated by means of the proposed technique yielding a content of 0.6 pg protein per microcapsule. Horseradish peroxidase saves 37% of activity after encapsulation. However, the thermostability of the enzyme was improved by encapsulation. The results demonstrate that porous CaCO3 microparticles can be applied as microtemplates for encapsulation of proteins into polyelectrolyte capsules at neutral pH as an optimal medium for a variety of bioactive material, which can also be encapsulated by the proposed method. Microcapsules filled with encapsulated material may find applications in the field of biotechnology, biochemistry, and medicine.

Development of novel self-healing and antibacterial dental composite containing calcium phosphate nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Wu, Junling; Weir, Michael D.; Melo, Mary Anne S.; Xu, Hockin H. K.

2015-01-01

Objectives Fracture and secondary caries are the primary reasons for dental restoration failure. The objective of this study was to develop a self-healing composite to heal cracks, while containing dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM) for antibacterial function and nanoparticles of amorphous calcium phosphate (NACP) for remineralization. Methods Microcapsules were synthesized with poly(urea-formaldehyde) (PUF) shells containing triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) and N,N-dihydroxyethyl-p-toluidine (DHEPT) as healing liquid. Composite contained 20 mass% of NACP and 35% glass fillers. In addition, composite contained 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, or 10% of microcapsules. A single edge V-notched beam method measured fracture toughness (KIC) and self-healing efficiency. A dental plaque microcosm biofilm model was used to test the antibacterial properties. Results Incorporation of microcapsules up to 7.5% into the composite did not adversely affect the mechanical properties (p > 0.1). Successful self-healing was achieved, with KIC recovery of 65–81% (mean ± sd; n = 6) to regain the load-bearing capability after composite fracture. The self-healing DMAHDM-NACP composite displayed a strong antibacterial potency, inhibiting biofilm viability and lactic acid production, and reducing colony-forming units by 3–4 orders of magnitude, compared to control composite without DMAHDM. Conclusions A dental composite was developed with triple benefits of self-healing after fracture, antibacterial activity, and remineralization capability for the first time. Clinical significance The self-healing, antibacterial and remineralizing composite may be promising for tooth cavity restorations to combat bulk fracture and secondary caries. The method of using triple agents (self-healing microcapsules, DMAHDM, and NACP) may have wide applicability to other dental composites, adhesives, sealants and cements. PMID:25625674

Hydrogen peroxide filled poly(methyl methacrylate) microcapsules: potential oxygen delivery materials.

PubMed

Mallepally, Rajendar R; Parrish, Chance C; Mc Hugh, Mark A M; Ward, Kevin R

2014-11-20

This paper describes the synthesis of H₂O₂-H₂O filled poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) microcapsules as potential candidates for controlled O₂ delivery. The microcapsules are prepared by a water-in-oil solvent emulsion and evaporation method. The results of this study describe the effect of process parameters on the characteristics of the microcapsules and on their in vitro performance. The size of the microcapsules, as determined from scanning electron microscopy, ranges from ∼5 to 30 μm and the size distribution is narrow. The microcapsules exhibit an internal morphology with entrapped H₂O₂-H₂O droplets randomly distributed in the PMMA continuous phase. In vitro release studies of 4.5 wt% H₂O₂-loaded microcapsules show that ∼70% of the H₂O₂ releases in 24h. This corresponds to a total O₂ production of ∼12 cc/gram of dry microcapsules. Shelf-life studies show that the microcapsules retain ∼84 wt% of the initially loaded H₂O₂ after nine months storage at 2-8 °C, which is an attractive feature for clinical applications. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Delivering MC3T3-E1 cells into injectable calcium phosphate cement through alginate-chitosan microcapsules for bone tissue engineering*

PubMed Central

Qiao, Peng-yan; Li, Fang-fang; Dong, Li-min; Xu, Tao; Xie, Qiu-fei

2014-01-01

Objective: To deliver cells deep into injectable calcium phosphate cement (CPC) through alginate-chitosan (AC) microcapsules and investigate the biological behavior of the cells released from microcapsules into the CPC. Methods: Mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells were embedded in alginate and AC microcapsules using an electrostatic droplet generator. The two types of cell-encapsulating microcapsules were then mixed with a CPC paste. MC3T3-E1 cell viability was investigated using a Wst-8 kit, and osteogenic differentiation was demonstrated by an alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assay. Cell attachment in CPC was observed by an environment scanning electron microscopy. Results: Both alginate and AC microcapsules were able to release the encapsulated MC3T3-E1 cells when mixed with CPC paste. The released cells attached to the setting CPC scaffolds, survived, differentiated, and formed mineralized nodules. Cells grew in the pores concomitantly created by the AC microcapsules in situ within the CPC. At Day 21, cellular ALP activity in the AC group was approximately four times that at Day 7 and exceeded that of the alginate microcapsule group (P<0.05). Pores formed by the AC microcapsules had a diameter of several hundred microns and were spherical compared with those formed by alginate microcapsules. Conclusions: AC microcapsule is a promising carrier to release seeding cells deep into an injectable CPC scaffold for bone engineering. PMID:24711359

Laser-triggered release of encapsulated molecules from polylactic-co-glycolic acid microcapsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ariyasu, Kazumasa; Ishii, Atsuhiro; Umemoto, Taiga; Terakawa, Mitsuhiro

2016-08-01

The controlled release of encapsulated molecules from a microcapsule is a promising method of targeted drug delivery. Laser-triggered methods for the release of encapsulated molecules have the advantage of spatial and temporal controllability. In this study, we demonstrated the release of encapsulated molecules from biodegradable polymer-based microcapsules using near-infrared femtosecond laser pulses. The polylactic-co-glycolic acid microcapsules encapsulating fluorescein isothiocyanate-dextran molecules were fabricated using a dual-coaxial nozzle system. Irradiation of femtosecond laser pulses enhanced the release of the molecules from the microcapsules, which was accompanied by a decrease in the residual ratio of the microcapsules. The laser-induced modification of the surface of the shell of the microcapsules indicated the potential for sustained release as well as burst release.

Effect of the cross-linking agent on performances of NaCS-CS/WSC microcapsules.

PubMed

Wu, Qing-Xi; Xu, Xin; Wang, Zu-Li; Yao, Shan-Jing; Tong, Wang-Yu; Chen, Yan

2016-11-01

Based on the properties of oppositely charged natural polysaccharides, the polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) prepared with chitosan-related polycationic polyelectrolytes and cellulose-related polyanionic polyelectrolytes have been widely concerned for their potential applications as micro-drug-carriers for colon. However, the poor mechanical property of the PECs becomes the obstacle encountered in practical applications. This study investigated the effect of the cross-linking agent (sodium polyphosphate, PPS) on the performances of sodium cellulose sulfate -chitosan/water soluble chitosan (NaCS-CS/WSC) microcapsules. The results revealed that PPS could penetrate through the PEC film and form tighter interior structures compared with the microcapsules without the addition of cross-linking agent. The NaCS-CS microcapsules and NaCS-WSC microcapsules with or without PPS had distinct microstructures, which could be ascribed to the different physicochemical properties of CS and WSC. During the formation process, CS can be dissolved in water under acidic conditions, while WSC can be directly dissolved and protonated in acid-free aqueous providing NH3(+) groups quickly, which resulted in the microstructure's difference. Further analysis showed the NaCS-CS-PPS microcapsules and NaCS-WSC-PPS microcapsules had lower swelling ratios due to their tighter interior microstructures that formed. The cross-linking agent had important effect on the total mass of PECs that produced; moreover, the decline of zeta potential of NaCS-CS-PPS microcapsules was lower than that of NaCS-CS microcapsules, similar trend was found in the NaCS-WSC-PPS microcapsules compared with NaCS-WSC microcapsules, indicating the PPS participated in the interactions and played a role in the microcapsules' formation process. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Membrane emulsification to produce perfume microcapsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Xuemiao

Microencapsulation is an efficient technology to deliver perfume oils from consumer products onto the surface of fabrics. Microcapsules having uniform size/mechanical strength, may provide better release performance. Membrane emulsification in a dispersion cell followed by in-situ polymerization was used to prepare narrow size distribution melamine-formaldehyde (MF) microcapsules containing several types of oil-based fragrances or ingredients. Investigated in this study are the parameters impacting to the size and size distribution of the droplets and final MF microcapsules. A pilot plant-scale cross-flow membrane system was also used to produce MF microcapsules, demonstrating that the membrane emulsification process has potential to be scaled up for industrial applications. In this study, health and environmental friendly poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) microcapsules with narrow size distribution were also prepared for the first time using the dispersion cell membrane emulsification system. Characterization methods previously used for thin-shell microcapsules were expanded to analyse microcapsules with thick shells. The intrinsic mechanical properties of thick shells were determined using a micromanipulation technique and finite element analysis (FEM). The microcapsules structure was also considered in the determination of the permeability and diffusivity of the perfume oils in good solvents..

Development of hydrocortisone succinic acid/and 5-fluorouracil/chitosan microcapsules for oral and topical drug deliveries.

PubMed

Lam, Pik-Ling; Lee, Kenneth Ka-Ho; Wong, Raymond Siu-Ming; Cheng, Gregory Yin Ming; Cheng, Shuk Yan; Yuen, Marcus Chun-Wah; Lam, Kim-Hung; Gambari, Roberto; Kok, Stanton Hon-Lung; Chui, Chung-Hin

2012-05-01

Recently, we demonstrated the safety use of calendula oil/chitosan microcapsules as a carrier for both oral and topical deliveries. We also reported the improved biological activity towards skin cells and Staphylococcus aureus of phyllanthin containing chitosan microcapsules. However, the possibility of both oral and topical applications was still necessary to be further studied. Here we investigated that both oral and topical applications of chitosan-based microcapsules were tested using hydrocortisone succinic acid (HSA) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), respectively. The drug loading efficiency, particle size, surface morphology and chemical compositions of both drug loaded microcapsules were confirmed by UV-vis spectrophotometer, particle size analyzer, scanning electron microscope and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The in vitro release studies revealed that both HSA and 5-FU could be released form chitosan microcapsules. The mean adrenocorticotropic hormone concentration in HSA loaded microcapsule mice plasma was detected to be lower than that of water control. One hundred micrograms per milliliter of 5-FU containing microcapsules exhibited a stronger growth inhibition towards skin keratinocytes than that of free 5-FU. In vitro drug delivery model demonstrated the delivery of 5-FU from microcapsule treated textiles into nude mice skin. Further uses of the drug loaded microcapsules may provide an efficiency deliverable tool for both oral and topical applications. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Improved and targeted delivery of bioactive molecules to cells with magnetic layer-by-layer assembled microcapsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pavlov, Anton M.; Gabriel, Samantha A.; Sukhorukov, Gleb B.; Gould, David J.

2015-05-01

Despite our increasing knowledge of cell biology and the recognition of an increasing repertoire of druggable intracellular therapeutic targets, there remain a limited number of approaches to deliver bioactive molecules to cells and even fewer that enable targeted delivery. Layer-by-layer (LbL) microcapsules are assembled using alternate layers of oppositely charged molecules and are potential cell delivery vehicles for applications in nanomedicine. There are a wide variety of charged molecules that can be included in the microcapsule structure including metal nanoparticles that introduce physical attributes. Delivery of bioactive molecules to cells with LbL microcapsules has recently been demonstrated, so in this study we explore the delivery of bioactive molecules (luciferase enzyme and plasmid DNA) to cells using biodegradable microcapsules containing a layer of magnetite nanoparticles. Interestingly, significantly improved intracellular luciferase enzyme activity (25 fold) and increased transfection efficiency with plasmid DNA (3.4 fold) was observed with magnetic microcapsules. The use of a neodymium magnet enabled efficient targeting of magnetic microcapsules which further improved the delivery efficiency of the cargoes as a consequence of increased microcapsule concentration at the magnetic site. Microcapsules were well tolerated by cells in these experiments and only displayed signs of toxicity at a capsule : cell ratio of 100 : 1 and with extended exposure. These studies illustrate how multi-functionalization of LbL microcapsules can improve and target delivery of bioactive molecules to cells.

Assembled microcapsules by doxorubicin and polysaccharide as high effective anticancer drug carriers.

PubMed

Du, Cuiling; Zhao, Jie; Fei, Jinbo; Cui, Yue; Li, Junbai

2013-09-01

Doxorubicin, together with the modified polysaccharide (alginate dialdehyde), was used as a wall material to fabricate microcapsules through self-cross-linking by a template method. The microcapsules as-prepared are pH-responsive. Relevant scanning electronic microscopy, atom force microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy confirm the morphology of the uniform microcapsules. The spectroscopic results show that the microcapsules are assembled through electrostatic interaction and Schiff's base covalent bonding. Doxorubicin can be released sustainably from the capsules in buffer solution at a lower pH value. The cellular uptake of the microcapsules and drug release induced by acidic microenvironment are time-dependent processes. The cell cytotoxicity experiments in vitro demonstrate that the doxorubicin-based microcapsules have high efficiency to kill the cancer cells. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Construction of a controlled-release delivery system for pesticides using biodegradable PLA-based microcapsules.

PubMed

Liu, Baoxia; Wang, Yan; Yang, Fei; Wang, Xing; Shen, Hong; Cui, Haixin; Wu, Decheng

2016-08-01

Conventional pesticides usually need to be used in more than recommended dosages due to their loss and degradation, which results in a large waste of resources and serious environmental pollution. Encapsulation of pesticides in biodegradable carriers is a feasible approach to develop environment-friendly and efficient controlled-release delivery system. In this work, we fabricated three kinds of polylactic acid (PLA) carriers including microspheres, microcapsules, and porous microcapsules for controlled delivery of Lambda-Cyhalothrin (LC) via premix membrane emulsification (PME). The microcapsule delivery system had better water dispersion than the other two systems. Various microcapsules with a high LC contents as much as 40% and tunable sizes from 0.68 to 4.6μm were constructed by manipulating the process parameters. Compared with LC technical and commercial microcapsule formulation, the microcapsule systems showed a significantly sustained release of LC for a longer period. The LC release triggered by LC diffusion and matrix degradation could be optimally regulated by tuning LC contents and particle sizes of the microcapsules. This multi-regulated release capability is of great significance to achieve the precisely controlled release of pesticides. A preliminary bioassay against plutella xylostella revealed that 0.68μm LC-loaded microcapsules with good UV and thermal stability exhibited an activity similar to a commercial microcapsule formulation. These results demonstrated such an aqueous microcapsule delivery system had a great potential to be further explored for developing an effective and environmentally friendly pesticide-release formulation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Rapid one-step purification of single-cells encapsulated in alginate microcapsules from oil to aqueous phase using a hydrophobic filter paper: implications for single-cell experiments.

PubMed

Lee, Do-Hyun; Jang, Miran; Park, Je-Kyun

2014-10-01

By virtue of the biocompatibility and physical properties of hydrogel, picoliter-sized hydrogel microcapsules have been considered to be a biometric signature containing several features similar to that of encapsulated single cells, including phenotype, viability, and intracellular content. To maximize the experimental potential of encapsulating cells in hydrogel microcapsules, a method that enables efficient hydrogel microcapsule purification from oil is necessary. Current methods based on centrifugation for the conventional stepwise rinsing of oil, are slow and laborious and decrease the monodispersity and yield of the recovered hydrogel microcapsules. To remedy these shortcomings we have developed a simple one-step method to purify alginate microcapsules, containing a single live cell, from oil to aqueous phase. This method employs oil impregnation using a commercially available hydrophobic filter paper without multistep centrifugal purification and complicated microchannel networks. The oil-suspended alginate microcapsules encapsulating single cells from mammalian cancer cell lines (MCF-7, HepG2, and U937) and microorganisms (Chlorella vulgaris) were successfully exchanged to cell culture media by quick (~10 min) depletion of the surrounding oil phase without coalescence of neighboring microcapsules. Cell proliferation and high integrity of the microcapsules were also demonstrated by long-term incubation of microcapsules containing a single live cell. We expect that this method for the simple and rapid purification of encapsulated single-cell microcapsules will attain widespread adoption, assisting cell biologists and clinicians in the development of single-cell experiments. Copyright © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Graphene Microcapsule Arrays for Combinatorial Electron Microscopy and Spectroscopy in Liquids

DOE PAGES

Yulaev, Alexander; Guo, Hongxuan; Strelcov, Evgheni; ...

2017-04-27

Atomic-scale thickness, molecular impermeability, low atomic number, and mechanical strength make graphene an ideal electron-transparent membrane for material characterization in liquids and gases with scanning electron microscopy and spectroscopy. Here in this paper, we present a novel sample platform made of an array of thousands of identical isolated graphene-capped microchannels with high aspect ratio. A combination of a global wide field of view with high resolution local imaging of the array allows for high throughput in situ studies as well as for combinatorial screening of solutions, liquid interfaces, and immersed samples. We demonstrate the capabilities of this platform by studyingmore » a pure water sample in comparison with alkali halide solutions, a model electrochemical plating process, and beam-induced crystal growth in liquid electrolyte. Spectroscopic characterization of liquid interfaces and immersed objects with Auger and X-ray fluorescence analysis through the graphene membrane are also demonstrated.« less

Report of study visits by University of Bristol, UK to University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, USA to initiate collaboration and coordination with 2005 MURI MICROVASCULAR AUTONOMIC COMPOSITES

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-02-15

fibre interaction are areas that require further research. Experimental and modelling studies undertaken at UIUC on individual microcapsules have many... Microcapsules : Work at UIUC has shown microcapsules to be a very effective method of self- healing to recover fracture toughness. In particular... microcapsule , cleaving it and initiating the release of monomer. A potential limitation of the microcapsule system is the limited volume of self-healing

Matrix polyelectrolyte capsules based on polysaccharide/MnCO₃ hybrid microparticle templates.

PubMed

Wei, Qingrong; Ai, Hua; Gu, Zhongwei

2011-06-15

An efficient strategy for biomacromolecule encapsulation based on spontaneous deposition into polysaccharide matrix-containing capsules is introduced in this study. First, hybrid microparticles composed of manganese carbonate and ionic polysaccharides including sodium hyaluronate (HA), sodium alginate (SA) and dextran sulfate sodium (DS) with narrow size distribution were synthesized to provide monodisperse templates. Incorporation of polysaccharide into the hybrid templates was successful as verified by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Matrix polyelectrolyte microcapsules were fabricated through layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes (PEs) onto the hybrid particles, followed by removal of the inorganic part of the cores, leaving polysaccharide matrix inside the capsules. The loading and release properties of the matrix microcapsules were investigated using myoglobin as a model biomacromolecule. Compared to matrix-free capsules, the matrix capsules had a much higher loading capacity up to four times; the driving force is mostly due to electrostatic interactions between myoglobin and the polysaccharide matrix. From our observations, for the same kind of polysaccharide, a higher amount of polysaccharide inside the capsules usually led to better loading capacity. The release behavior of the loaded myoglobin could be readily controlled by altering the environmental pH. These matrix microcapsules may be used as efficient delivery systems for various charged water-soluble macromolecules with applications in biomedical fields. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Experimental Study on Cementitious Composites Embedded with Organic Microcapsules

PubMed Central

Wang, Xianfeng; Xing, Feng; Zhang, Ming; Han, Ningxu; Qian, Zhiwei

2013-01-01

The recovery behavior for strength and impermeability of cementitious composites embedded with organic microcapsules was investigated in this study. Mortar specimens were formed by mixing the organic microcapsules and a catalyst with cement and sand. The mechanical behaviors of flexural and compression strength were tested. The results showed that strength could increase by up to nine percent with the addition of a small amount of microcapsules and then decrease with an increasing amount of microcapsules. An orthogonal test for investigating the strength recovery rate was designed and implemented for bending and compression using the factors of water/cement ratio, amount of microcapsules, and preloading rate. It is shown that the amount of microcapsules plays a key role in the strength recovery rate. Chloride ion permeability tests were also carried out to investigate the recovery rate and healing effect. The initial damage was obtained by subjecting the specimens to compression. Both the recovery rate and the healing effect were nearly proportional to the amount of microcapsules. The obtained cementitious composites can be seen as self-healing owing to their recovery behavior for both strength and permeability. PMID:28788318

Distribution of PEG-coated hollow polyelectrolyte microcapsules after introduction into the circulatory system and muscles of zebrafish

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

ABSTRACT The use of polyelectrolyte multilayer microcapsules as carriers for fluorescent molecular probes is a prospective technique for monitoring the physiological characteristics of animal vasculature and interstitial environment in vivo. Polyelectrolyte microcapsules have many features that favor their use as implantable carriers of optical sensors, but little information is available on their interactions with complex living tissues, distribution or residence time following different routes of administration in the body of vertebrates. Using the common fish model, the zebrafish Danio rerio, we studied in vivo the distribution of non-biodegradable microcapsules covered with polyethylene glycol (PEG) over time in the adults and evaluated potential side effects of their delivery into the fish bloodstream and muscles. Fluorescent microcapsules administered into the bloodstream and interstitially (in concentrations that were sufficient for visualization and spectral signal recording) both showed negligible acute toxicity to the fishes during three weeks of observation. The distribution pattern of microcapsules delivered into the bloodstream was stable for at least one week, with microcapsules prevalent in capillaries-rich organs. However, after intramuscular injection, the phagocytosis of the microcapsules by immune cells was manifested, indicating considerable immunogenicity of the microcapsules despite PEG coverage. The long-term negative effects of chronic inflammation were also investigated in fish muscles by histological analysis. PMID:29305467

Preparation of keratin-based microcapsules for encapsulation of hydrophilic molecules.

PubMed

Rajabinejad, Hossein; Patrucco, Alessia; Caringella, Rosalinda; Montarsolo, Alessio; Zoccola, Marina; Pozzo, Pier Davide

2018-01-01

The interest towards microcapsules based on non-toxic, biodegradable and biocompatible polymers, such as proteins, is increasing considerably. In this work, microcapsules were prepared using water soluble keratin, known as keratoses, with the aim of encapsulating hydrophilic molecules. Keratoses were obtained via oxidizing extraction of pristine wool, previously degreased by Soxhlet. In order to better understand the shell part of microcapsules, pristine wool and obtained keratoses were investigated by FT-IR, gel-electrophoresis and HPLC. Production of the microcapsules was carried out by a sonication method. Thermal properties of microcapsules were investigated by DSC. Microencapsulation and dye encapsulation yields were obtained by UV-spectroscopy. Morphological structure of microcapsules was studied by light microscopy, SEM, and AFM. The molecular weights of proteins analyzed using gel-electrophoresis resulted in the range of 38-62kDa. The results confirmed that the hydrophilic dye (Telon Blue) was introduced inside the keratoses shells by sonication and the final microcapsules diameter ranged from 0.5 to 4µm. Light microscope investigation evidenced the presence of the dye inside the keratoses vesicles, confirming their capability of encapsulating hydrophilic molecules. The microcapsule yield and dye encapsulation yield were found to be 28.87±3% and 83.62±5% respectively. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Metal-organic coordination-enabled layer-by-layer self-assembly to prepare hybrid microcapsules for efficient enzyme immobilization.

PubMed

Wang, Xiaoli; Jiang, Zhongyi; Shi, Jiafu; Liang, Yanpeng; Zhang, Chunhong; Wu, Hong

2012-07-25

A novel layer-by-layer self-assembly approach enabled by metal-organic coordination was developed to prepare polymer-inorganic hybrid microcapsules. Alginate was first activated via N-ethyl-N'-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) and N-hydroxy succinimide (NHS) coupling chemistry, and subsequently reacted with dopamine. Afterward, the dopamine modified alginate (Alg-DA) and titanium(IV) bis(ammonium lactato) dihydroxide (Ti(IV)) were alternatively deposited onto CaCO3 templates. The coordination reaction between the catechol groups of Alg-DA and the Ti(IV) allowed the alternative assembly to form a series of multilayers. After removing the templates, the alginate-titanium hybrid microcapsules were obtained. The high mechanical stability of hybrid microcapsules was demonstrated by osmotic pressure experiment. Furthermore, the hybrid microcapsules displayed superior thermal stability due to Ti(IV) coordination. Catalase (CAT) was used as model enzyme, either encapsulated inside or covalently attached on the surface of the resultant microcapsules. No CAT leakage from the microcapsules was detected after incubation for 48 h. The encapsulated CAT, with a loading capacity of 450-500 mg g(-1) microcapsules, exhibited desirable long-term storage stability, whereas the covalently attached CAT, with a loading capacity of 100-150 mg g(-1) microcapsules, showed desirable operational stability.

Effects of water-aging on self-healing dental composite containing microcapsules.

PubMed

Wu, Junling; Weir, Michael D; Melo, Mary Anne S; Strassler, Howard E; Xu, Hockin H K

2016-04-01

The objectives of this study were to develop a self-healing dental composite containing poly(urea-formaldehyde) (PUF) shells with triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) and N,N-dihydroxyethyl-p-toluidine (DHEPT) as healing liquid, and to investigate the mechanical properties of the composite and its self-healing efficacy after water-aging for 6 months. PUF microspheres were synthesized encapsulating a TEGDMA-DHEPT healing liquid. Composite containing 30% of a resin matrix and 70% of glass fillers by mass was incorporated with 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5% and 10% of microcapsules. A flexural test was used to measure flexural strength and elastic modulus. A single edge V-notched beam method was used to measure fracture toughness (KIC) and self-healing efficacy. Specimens were water-aged at 37 °C for 1 day to 6 months and then tested for self-healing. Fractured specimens were healed while being immersed in water to examine self-healing efficacy, in comparison with that in air. Incorporation of up to 7.5% of microcapsules into the resin composite achieved effective self-healing, without adverse effects on the virgin mechanical properties of the composite (p>0.1). An excellent self-healing efficacy of 64-77% recovery was obtained (mean±sd; n=6). Six months of water-aging did not decrease the self-healing efficacy compared to 1 day (p>0.1). Exposure to water did not decrease the healing efficacy, compared to that healed in air (p>0.1). A composite was developed with excellent self-healing efficacy even while being immersed in water. The self-healing efficacy did not decrease with increasing water-aging time for 6 months. The novel self-healing composite may be promising for dental applications to heal cracks, resist fracture, and increase the durability and longevity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of water-aging on self-healing dental composite containing microcapsules

PubMed Central

Wu, Junling; Weir, Michael D.; Melo, Mary Anne S.; Strassler, Howard E.; Xu, Hockin H. K.

2016-01-01

Objectives The objectives of this study were to develop a self-healing dental composite containing poly(urea-formaldehyde) (PUF) shells with triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) and N,N-dihydroxyethyl-p-toluidine (DHEPT) as healing liquid, and to investigate the mechanical properties of the composite and its self-healing efficacy after water-aging for 6 months. Methods PUF microspheres were synthesized encapsulating a TEGDMA-DHEPT healing liquid. Composite containing 30% of a resin matrix and 70% of glass fillers by mass was incorporated with 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5% and 10% of microcapsules. A flexural test was used to measure flexural strength and elastic modulus. A single edge V-notched beam method was used to measure fracture toughness (KIC) and self-healing efficacy. Specimens were water-aged at 37 °C for 1 d to 6 months and then tested for self-healing. Fractured specimens were healed while being immersed in water to examine self-healing efficacy, in comparison with that in air. Results Incorporation of up to 7.5% of microcapsules into the resin composite achieved effective self-healing, without adverse effects on the virgin mechanical properties of the composite (p > 0.1). An excellent self-healing efficacy of 64%–77% recovery was obtained (mean ± sd; n = 6). Six months of water-aging did not decrease the self-healing efficacy compared to 1 d (p > 0.1). Exposure to water did not decrease the healing efficacy, compared to that healed in air (p > 0.1). Conclusions A composite was developed with excellent self-healing efficacy even while being immersed in water. The self-healing efficacy did not decrease with increasing water-aging time for 6 months. Clinical significance The novel self-healing composite may be promising for dental applications to heal cracks, resist fracture, and increase the durability and longevity. PMID:26808158

Effect of Variation in Viscosity Grade of Ethycellulose on Theophylline Microcapsule Properties Prepared by Emulsion Solvent Evaporation.

PubMed

Garekani, Hadi Afrasiabi; Ahmadi, Behzad; Sadeghi, Fatemeh

2017-01-01

There are conflicting reports regarding the effect of polymer viscosity grade on microcapsule properties. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of just viscosity grade of ethylcellulose (EC) (not polymeric solution) on properties of theophylline microcapsules prepared by emulsion solvent evaporation. The effect of EC viscosity grade and drug:polymer ratio was investigated on microcapsule properties (yield, particle size, morphology, surface characteristics and drug release). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) were implemented to study the interaction and solid state of drug. The microcapsules were compressed in the presence of excipients and drug release was evaluated. The yield of microencapsulation and encapsulation efficiency at 1:1 drug:polymer ratio was dependent on EC viscosity. Microcapsules were spherical with some pores on their surfaces. The number of pores was more and their size was bigger for EC 100 cP microcapsules. Theophylline remained in crystalline form after encapsulation. DSC studies confirmed lack of interaction between drug and polymer. The drug release was rapid at 2:1 drug:polymer whilst it was slowed down at 1:1 drug:polymer ratio. Microcapsules obtained from EC 100 cP showed slightly faster drug release at latter ratio. Marginal changes in release rate were observed after compression of microcapsules. All viscosity grades of EC were able to sustain the release of the drug from microcapsules. Considering the similar release profiles for microcapsules prepared from different viscosities of EC, the use of lower viscosity grade of EC is recommended due to the ease of production and also less processing time. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Polydopamine microcapsules with different wall structures prepared by a template-mediated method for enzyme immobilization.

PubMed

Shi, Jiafu; Yang, Chen; Zhang, Shaohua; Wang, Xiaoli; Jiang, Zhongyi; Zhang, Wenyan; Song, Xiaokai; Ai, Qinghong; Tian, Chunyong

2013-10-23

Microcapsules with diverse wall structures may exhibit different performance in specific applications. In the present study, three kinds of mussel-inspired polydopamine (PDA) microcapsules with different wall structures have been prepared by a template-mediated method. More specifically, three types of CaCO3 microspheres (poly(allylamine hydrochloride), (PAH)-doped CaCO3; pure-CaCO3; and poly(styrene sulfonate sodium), (PSS)-doped CaCO3) were synthesized as sacrificial templates, which were then treated by dopamine to obtain the corresponding PDA-CaCO3 microspheres. Through treating these microspheres with disodium ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA-2Na) to remove CaCO3, three types of PDA microcapsules were acquired: that was (1) PAH-PDA microcapsule with a thick (∼600 nm) and highly porous capsule wall composed of interconnected networks, (2) pure-PDA microcapsule with a thick (∼600 nm) and less porous capsule wall, (3) PSS-PDA microcapsule with a thin (∼70 nm) and dense capsule wall. Several characterizations confirmed that a higher degree in porosity and interconnectivity of the capsule wall would lead to a higher mass transfer coefficient. When serving as the carrier for catalase (CAT) immobilization, these enzyme-encapsulated PDA microcapsules showed distinct structure-related activity and stability. In particular, PAH-PDA microcapsules with a wall of highly interconnected networks displayed several significant advantages, including increases in enzyme encapsulation efficiency and enzyme activity/stability and a decrease in enzyme leaching in comparison with other two types of PDA microcapsules. Besides, this hierarchically structured PAH-PDA microcapsule may find other promising applications in biocatalysis, biosensors, drug delivery, etc.

pH Sensitive Microcapsules for Delivery of Corrosion Inhibitors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Wenyan; Calle, Luz M.

2006-01-01

A considerable number of corrosion problems can be solved by coatings. However, even the best protective coatings can fail by allowing the slow diffusion of oxygen and moisture to the metal surface. Corrosion accelerates when a coating delaminates. Often, the problems start when microscopic nicks or pits on the surface develop during manufacturing or through wear and tear. This problem can be solved by the incorporation of a self-healing function into the coating. Several new concepts are currently under development to incorporate this function into a coating. Conductive polymers, nanoparticles, and microcapsules are used to release corrosion-inhibiting ions at a defect site. The objective of this investigation is to develop a smart coating for the early detection and inhibition of corrosion. The dual function of this new smart coating system is performed by pH-triggered release microcapsules. The microcapsules can be used to deliver healing agents to terminate the corrosion process at its early stage or as corrosion indicators by releasing dyes at the localized corrosion sites. The dyes can be color dyes or fluorescent dyes, with or without pH sensitivity. Microcapsules were formed through the interfacial polymerization process. The average size of the microcapsules can be adjusted from 1 to 100 micron by adjusting the emulsion formula and the microcapsule forming conditions. A typical microcapsule size is around 10 microns with a narrow size distribution. The pH sensitivity of the microcapsule can also be controlled by adjusting the emulsion formula and the polymerization reaction time. Both corrosion indicator (pH indicator) and corrosion inhibitor containing microcapsules were formed and incorporated into paint systems. Test panels of selected steels and aluminum alloys were painted using these paints. Testing of compatibility between the microcapsule system and different paint systems are in progress. Initial experiments with the microcapsule containing paint show visible color changes at induced corrosion sites and improvement of corrosion protection. Further investigation of the performance of the coating using electrochemical techniques and long term exposure are currently underway.

Solvent-based self-healing approaches for fiber-reinforced composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jones, Amanda R.

Damage in composite materials spans many length scales and is often difficult to detect or costly to repair. The incorporation of self-healing functionality in composite materials has the potential to greatly extend material lifetime and reliability. Although there has been remarkable progress in self-healing polymers over the past decade, self-repair in fiber-reinforced composite materials presents significant technical challenges due to stringent manufacturing and performance requirements. For high performance, fiber-reinforced composites, the self-healing components need to survive high temperature processing, reside in matrix interstitial regions to retain a high fiber volume fraction, and have minimal impact on the mechanical properties of the host material. This dissertation explores several microencapsulated solvent-based self-healing approaches for fiber-reinforced composites at the fiber/ matrix interface size scale as well as matrix cracking. Systems are initially developed for room temperature cured epoxies/ glass fiber interfaces and successfully transitioned to carbon fibers and high temperature-cured, thermoplastic-toughened matrices. Full recovery of interfacial bond strength after complete fiber/matrix debonding is achieved with a microencapsulated solvent-based healing chemistry. The surface of a glass fiber is functionalized with microcapsules containing varying concentrations of reactive epoxy resin and ethyl phenyl acetate (EPA) solvent. Microbond specimens consisting of a single fiber and a microdroplet of epoxy are cured at 35°C, tested, and the interfacial shear strengths (IFSS) during the initial (virgin) debonding and subsequent healing events are measured. Debonding of the fiber/matrix interface ruptures the capsules, releasing resin and solvent into the crack plane. The solvent swells the matrix, initiating transport of residual amine functionality for further curing with the epoxy resin delivered to the crack plane. Using a resin-solvent ratio of 3:97, a maximum of 100% IFSS recovery is achieved-- a significant enhancement over prior work that reported 44% average recovery of IFSS with microencapsulated dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) monomer and Grubbs' 1st Generation catalyst healing agents. The effects of capsule coverage, resin-solvent ratio, and capsule size on recovery of IFSS are also determined, providing guidelines for integration of this healing system into high fiber volume fraction structural composites. High healing efficiencies are achieved with capsules as small as 0.6 mum average diameter. The resin-solvent healing system is then extended to repair of a carbon fiber/epoxy interfacial bond. A binder is necessary to improve the retention of capsules on the carbon fiber surface. Two different methods for applying a binder to a carbon fiber surface are investigated. Healing efficiency is assessed by recovery of IFSS of a single functionalized fiber embedded in an epoxy microbond specimen. The two binder protocols produce comparable results, both yielding higher recovery of IFSS than samples prepared without a binder. A maximum of 91% recovery of IFSS is achieved. In the next study, the resin-solvent healing system is applied to both interfacial damage and matrix cracking in a model composite specimen, consisting of discrete fiber tows embedded in a room temperature cured epoxy. Glass fiber tows are precisely placed in a compact tension specimen for controlled crack growth. The progression of matrix cracking and fiber debonding is observed optically during testing. Healing potential is assessed by injection of the healing agents into reference specimens (no capsules). The area under the load-displacement curve recovered during the healing event serves as a metric for evaluation of healing performance. Though full recovery is achieved in neat epoxy specimens, healing efficiency in multi-tow specimens is limited to 50%, due to the larger crack separations and energy lost during fiber fracture. In the case of only a singular embedded fiber tow, healing efficiency increases to an average of 83% recovery with full recovery in several samples. Additionally, microcapsules are incorporated into the compact tension specimen and along the fiber tow interface to evaluate in situ healing. Several strategies to improve microcapsule thermal stability are investigated in order to transition solvent-based healing to high temperature cured material systems. A double shell wall technique is adopted for several different size scales of microcapsules. First, the effect of the inner polyurethane (PU) shell wall thickness on thermal stability is evaluated. Though high thermal stability at 180°C is achieved for large (ca. 150 mum in diameter) capsules, smaller capsules (> 2 mum in diameter) suffer from increased core loss. The addition of certain core thickeners improves thermal stability for small capsules (ca. 20% increase in core retention) when compared to capsules with solvent alone. However, an additional poly(dopamine) coating leads to the greatest improvement in thermal stability, with nearly full retention of the core solvent for all capsule size scales. Finally, a thermoplastic resin poly(bisphenol A-co-epichlorohydrin), PBAE, is blended with a high glass transition temperature (Tg) epoxy matrix to simultaneously toughen and act as a healing agent in combination with encapsulated solvents. Microcapsules are coated with poly(dopamine) to improve the thermal stability and retain the core solvent during a cure cycle at 180°C. The fracture toughness of the high Tg epoxy (EPON 828: diamino diphenyl sulfone) is doubled by the addition of 20 wt % PBAE alone and tripled by the addition of both microcapsules and the thermoplastic phase. Self-healing is achieved with up to 57% recovery of fracture toughness of the toughened epoxy. Healing performance and fracture toughness of the microcapsule containing material remain stable after aging 30 days. The relative amounts of thermoplastic phase and the presence of solvent-filled microcapsules influence the storage modulus, Tg, and healing performance of the polymer.

Local Anesthetic Microencapsulation.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-03-18

Polylactide Availability 2 2. Microencapsulation of Etidocaine-HCl 2 3. Porosimetry Measurements 2 B. Stability of Stored Microcapsules 8 C. In Vivo... Microencapsulation 3 Table 2 Etidocaine-HCl Microcapsules Size Distribution 4 Table 3 Porosimetry Data on Etidocaine-HCl Microcapsules (70% Drug, 106...rapid releasing etidocaine microcapsules can provide long term anesthesia (e.g., 4mg of microencapsulated etidocaine-HCl provided anesthesia after five

Polymeric Microcapsule Arrays.

DTIC Science & Technology

1995-03-24

support, microencapsulation and entrapment within a membrane/film or gel. The ideal enzyme immobilization method would (1) Employ mild chemical...yields hollow polymeric microcapsules of uniform diameter and length. These microcapsules are arranged in a high density array in which the...individual capsules protrude from a surface like the bristles of a brush. We have developed procedures for filling these microcapsules with high

Local Anesthetic Microcapsules.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-04-15

III Chemical Structure of Local Anesthetics 12 Table IV Processing Summary of Lidocaine Microencapsulation 15 Table V Lidocaine Microcapsule Size...Distribution 17 Table VI Processing Summary of Etidocaine Microencapsulation 18 Table VII Etidocaine Microcapsule Size Distribution 19 Table VIII Lidocaine...REPORT I PERIOD COVERED Annual Local Anesthetic Microcapsules 1 July 1980-30 March 1981 6. PERFORMING ORG. REPORT NUMBER 2106-1 7. AUTHOR() S

Analysis of a bubble deformation process in a microcapsule by shock waves for developing DDS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tamagawa, Masaaki; Morimoto, Kenshi

2012-09-01

This paper describes development of DDS (drug delivery systems) microcapsule using underwater shock waves, especially (1) making polymer microcapsules including a bubble and analysis of a bubble deformation process in a polymer capsule by pressure wave, (2) making liposome microcapsules with different elastic membrane and disintegration tests by ultrasonic waves.

Proton gradients produced by glucose oxidase microcapsules containing motor F0F1-ATPase for continuous ATP biosynthesis.

PubMed

Duan, Li; Qi, Wei; Yan, Xuehai; He, Qiang; Cui, Yue; Wang, Kewei; Li, Dongxiang; Li, Junbai

2009-01-15

Glucose oxidase (GOD) microcapsules held together by cross-linker, glutaraldehyde (GA), are fabricated by the layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly technique. The lipid bilayer containing CF(0)F(1)-ATPase was coated on the outer shell of GOD microcapsules. Driven under the proton gradients produced by catalysis of GOD microcapsules for glucose, ATP is synthesized from ADP and inorganic phosphate catalyzed by the ATPase rotary catalysis. The results show here that ATPase reconstituted on the GOD microcapsules retains its catalytic activity.

Preparation of microcapsules by complex coacervation of gum Arabic and chitosan.

PubMed

Butstraen, Chloé; Salaün, Fabien

2014-01-01

Gum Arabic-chitosan microcapsules containing a commercially available blend of triglycerides (Miglyol 812 N) as core phase were synthesized by complex coacervation. This study was conducted to clarify the influence of different parameters on the encapsulation process, i.e. during the emulsion formation steps and during the shell formation, using conductometry, zeta potential, surface and interface tension measurement and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. By carefully analyzing the influencing factors including phase volume ratio, stirring rate and time, pH, reaction time, biopolymer ratio and crosslinking effect, the optimum synthetic conditions were found out. For the emulsion step, the optimum phase volume ratio chosen was 0.10 and an emulsion time of 15 min at 11,000 rpm was selected. The results also indicated that the optimum formation of these complexes appears at a pH value of 3.6 and a weight ratio of chitosan to gum Arabic mixtures of 0.25. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Release of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 from alginate microcapsule encapsulating genetically engineered cells

PubMed Central

Kim, Yeon Seong; Jeong, Young-II; Jin, Shu-Guang; Pei, Jian; Wen, Min; Kim, In-Young; Moon, Kyung-Sub; Jung, Tae-Young; Ryu, Hyang-Hwa; Jung, Shin

2013-01-01

Background In this study, 293T cells were genetically engineered to secrete tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP2) and encapsulated into alginate microcapsules to continuously release TIMP2 protein. Methods The anti-invasive potential of the microcapsules was studied in vitro using brain tumor cells. The TIMP2 gene was transfected to 293T cells, and genetically engineered 293TIMP2 cells were encapsulated into alginate microcapsules. Release of TIMP2 protein was detected with Western blot analysis and the anti-invasive potential against U87MG cells was tested using gelatin zymography and a Matrigel assay. Results Cell viability within the alginate microcapsules was maintained at a cell density of 5 × 106. Because polycationic polymers are helpful for maintaining the mechanical strength of microcapsules with good cell viability, the alginate microcapsules were reinforced with chitosan (0.1% w/v). Expression of TIMP2 protein in cell lysates and secretion of TIMP2 into the conditioned medium was confirmed by Western blot analysis. Alginate microcapsules encapsulating 293TIMP2 cells released TIMP2 protein into the medium efficiently, where the TIMP2 protein participated in degradation of the matrix metalloproteinase-2 enzyme and inhibited invasion of U87MG cells. Conclusion Alginate microcapsules encapsulating 293TIMP2 cells are promising candidates for anti-invasive treatment of glioma. PMID:24231999

Antimicrobial Wound Dressing. Phase 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-06-11

12 a. Antimicrobial Sensitivity Tests 12 b. Anin.il Model 13 5. Preparatiua of Microcapsules 14 B. Results 15 1. AIn Vit Diffusion 15 a. PVA... Microcapsules 35 Table 5 Tetracycline Hydrochloride Cellulose 36 Triacetate Microcapsules Table 6 Polyethylene Oxide Hydrogels 37 Table 7 Swelling of...Water and Crosslinking Effect Figure 24 In Vi trq Chlorhexidine Release 70 Polyacrylamide Hydrogel - Microcapsules Figure 25 In _Vitro Tetracycline

Controlled Release of Antibiotics from Biodegradable Microcapsules for Wound Infection Control.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-06-18

evaporation and phase separation methods were used in formulating the microcapsules .(l1) The microencapsulation process will be described in detail in a...intensity to the antibiotic content. Usi.ng both microencapsulation processes, 14C-labeled ampicillin anhydypte microcapsules were synthesized.(12...excellent technical assistance. .. . . g .SETTERSTROM, TICE, LEWIS, and-MEYERS TABLE 1. IN VIVO AMPICILLIN MICROCAPSULES EVALUATED MICROENCAPSULATION

Self-healing of polymeric materials: The effect of the amount of DCPD confined within microcapsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chipara, Dorina M.; Perez, Alma; Lozano, Karen; Elamin, Ibrahim; Villarreal, Jahaziel; Salinas, Alfonso; Chipara, Mircea

2013-03-01

The self-healing SH) of polymers is based on the dispersion of a catalyst and of microcapsules filled with monomer within the polymeric matrix. Sufficiently large external stresses will rupture the microcapsule, releasing the monomer which will diffuse through the polymer and eventually will reach a catalyst particle igniting a polymerization reaction. The classical SH system includes first generation Grubbs catalyst and poly-urea formaldehyde microcapsules filled with DCPD. The polymerization reaction is a ring-opening metathesis. The size and the mechanical features of microcapsules are critical in controlling the SH process. Research was focused on the effect of DCPD on the size and thickness of microcapsules. Microscopy was used to determine the size of microcapsules (typically in the range of 10-4 m) and the thickness of the microcapsules (ranging between 10-6 to 10-8 m). Research revealed a thick disordered layer over a thin and more compact wall. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the confinement of DCPD, TGA measurements aimed to a better understanding of the degradation processes in inert atmosphere, and mechanical tests supported the ignition of self-healing properties. This research has been supported by National Science Foundation under DMR (PREM) grant 0934157.

Microfabricated airflow nozzle for microencapsulation of living cells into 150 micrometer microcapsules.

PubMed

Sugiura, Shinji; Oda, Tatsuya; Aoyagi, Yasuyuki; Matsuo, Ryota; Enomoto, Tsuyoshi; Matsumoto, Kunio; Nakamura, Toshikazu; Satake, Mitsuo; Ochiai, Atsushi; Ohkohchi, Nobuhiro; Nakajima, Mitsutoshi

2007-02-01

Microencapsulation of genetically engineered cells has attracted much attention as an alternative nonviral strategy to gene therapy. Though smaller microcapsules (i.e. less than 300 microm) theoretically have various advantages, technical limitations made it difficult to prove this notion. We have developed a novel microfabricated device, namely a micro-airflow-nozzle (MAN), to produce 100 to 300 microm alginate microcapsules with a narrow size distribution. The MAN is composed of a nozzle with a 60 microm internal diameter for an alginate solution channel and airflow channels next to the nozzle. An alginate solution extruded through the nozzle was sheared by the airflow. The resulting alginate droplets fell directly into a CaCl2 solution, and calcium alginate beads were formed. The device enabled us to successfully encapsulate living cells into 150 microm microcapsules, as well as control microcapsule size by simply changing the airflow rate. The encapsulated cells had a higher growth rate and greater secretion activity of marker protein in 150 microm microcapsules compared to larger microcapsules prepared by conventional methods because of their high diffusion efficiency and effective scaffold surface area. The advantages of smaller microcapsules offer new prospects for the advancement of microencapsulation technology.

In vitro and in vivo MRI visualization of nanocomposite biodegradable microcapsules with tunable contrast.

PubMed

German, Sergey V; Bratashov, Daniil N; Navolokin, Nikita A; Kozlova, Anastasia A; Lomova, Maria V; Novoselova, Marina V; Burilova, Evgeniya A; Zyev, Victor V; Khlebtsov, Boris N; Bucharskaya, Alla B; Terentyuk, Georgy S; Amirov, Rustem R; Maslyakova, Galina N; Sukhorukov, Gleb B; Gorin, Dmitry A

2016-11-30

Microcapsules, made of biodegradable polymers, containing magnetite nanoparticles with tunable contrast in both the T1 and T2 MRI modes, were successfully prepared using a layer-by-layer approach. The MRI contrast of the microcapsules was shown to depend on the distance between magnetite nanoparticles in the polymeric layers, which is controlled by their concentration in the microcapsule shell. A fivefold increase in the average distance between the nanoparticles in the microcapsule shell led to a change in the intensity of the MR signal of 100% for both the T1 and T2 modes. Enzyme treatment of biodegradable shells resulted in a change of the microcapsules' MRI contrast. In vivo degradation of nanocomposite microcapsules concentrated in the liver after intravenous injection was demonstrated by MRI. This method can be used for the creation of a new generation of drug delivery systems, including drug depot, with combined navigation, visualization and remote activated release of bioactive substances in vivo.

Microencapsulation of essential oil for insect repellent in food packaging system.

PubMed

Chung, Seong Kyun; Seo, Ji Yeon; Lim, Jung Hoon; Park, Hyung Hwan; Yea, Myeong Jai; Park, Hyun Jin

2013-05-01

Microcapsules containing thyme oil were prepared by in situ polymerization, using melamine-formaldehyde prepolymer as a wall material and 3 different emulsifiers (pluronic F-127, tween 80, and sodium lauryl sulfate [SLS]). The general characteristics and release behavior of microcapsules, and their repellent effect against insects were investigated. The morphology of microcapsules using SLS was spherical shape with smooth surface. Microcapsules began to degrade at 150 °C. The particle size ranged from 1 to 10 μm and the loading efficiency of thyme oil was clearly affected by the emulsifier type. The highest loading efficiency appeared in microcapsules using SLS, which have good thermal resistance and smooth surface. The release rate of thyme oil from microcapsules was not only dependent on the storage temperature but also emulsifier type and microcapsules showed the sustained release properties for a long time. Diets, which were mixed with encapsulated thyme oil, expressed high insect repellent efficacy over 90% for 4 wk. © 2013 Institute of Food Technologists®

Disintegration-controllable stimuli-responsive polyelectrolyte multilayer microcapsules via covalent layer-by-layer assembly.

PubMed

Mu, Bin; Lu, Chunyin; Liu, Peng

2011-02-01

The disintegration-controllable stimuli-responsive polyelectrolyte multilayer microcapsules have been fabricated via the covalent layer-by-layer assembly between the amino groups of chitosan (CS) and the aldehyde groups of the oxidized sodium alginate (OSA) onto the sacrificial templates (polystyrene sulfonate, PSS) which was removed by dialysis subsequently. The covalent crosslinking bonds of the multilayer microcapsules were confirmed by FTIR analysis. The TEM analysis showed that the diameter of the multilayer microcapsules was <200nm. The diameter of the multilayer microcapsules decreased with the increasing of the pH values or the ionic strength. The pH and ionic strength dual-responsive multilayer microcapsules were stable in acidic and neutral media while they could disintegrate only at strong basic media. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Preparation of magnetic and pH-responsive chitosan microcapsules via sonochemical method.

PubMed

Xu, Fengzhi; Zhao, Tianqi; Wang, Shurong; Liu, Songfeng; Yang, Ting; Li, Zhanfeng; Wang, Hongyan; Cui, Xuejun

2016-01-01

Magnetic and pH-responsive chitosan microcapsules (MPRCMCs) were prepared by a simple sonochemical method. Superparamagnetic oleic acid modified Fe3O4 nanoparticles (OA-Fe3O4 NPs) and hydrophobic drugs could be directly loaded into MPRCMCs during sonication. The obtained microcapsules had a well-defined spherical morphology with the average size of 2 μm. The microcapsules showed an excellent magnetic property. In addition, the pH-responsive controlled release of coumarin 6 (C6) from MPRCMCs indicated that the developed microcapsules could be a promising candidate for drugs carriers.

Polyfibroblast: A Self-Healing and Galvanic Protection Additive

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-27

TESTING 8 3.5 ADHESION OF SPRAY COATINGS WITH MICROCAPSULES 8 3.6 CONTROLLING METAL COMPOSITION 9 3.7 SHEAR STRESS TESTING 9 Polyfibroblast...observed self-healing in real time using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, we now show through this same technique the importance of the microcapsules ...OTS rich microcapsules have an improved shelf-life in comparison to polyurethane resin-filled microcapsules . Salt spray measurements, now completed

Synthesis of Stable Microcapsules from Trematode Eggshell Components

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-06-30

NO Arlington, VA 22217-5000 61153N RR4106 11 TITLE (Include Security Classification) (u) Synthesis of Stable Microcapsules from Trematode Eggshell...Continue on reverse if necessary and identify by block number) The trematode Fasciola hepatica produces a unique protein eggshell or microcapsule the...proteins to produce a hard quinone tanned microcapsule with unusual properties. The focus of this project is to i) characterize the protein components

Determination of the Feasibility of Preparing Vancomycin Microparticles

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-01-01

Maryland 21702-5012. 13. ABSTRACT (Maximum 200 The main objective of this project was to develop, prepare, and deliver 25 g of vancomycin microcapsules ...demonstrated that the BIOTEK vancomycin microcapsules met all the criteria stipulated in the contract. The microcapsules maintained a sustained release of...therapeutic levels of vancomycin and inhibited bacterial growth of Staphylococcus aureus for 19 days. The preparation of these vancomycin microcapsules

Multicompartmental, multilayered probucol microcapsules for diabetes mellitus: Formulation characterization and effects on production of insulin and inflammation in a pancreatic β-cell line.

PubMed

Mooranian, Armin; Negrulj, Rebecca; Arfuso, Frank; Al-Salami, Hani

2016-11-01

We have shown that the primary bile acid, cholic acid (CA), has anti-diabetic effects in vivo. Probucol (PB) is a lipophilic drug with potential applications in type 2 diabetes (T2D). This study aimed to encapsulate CA with PB and examine the formulation and surface characteristics of the microcapsules. We also tested the microcapsules' biological effects on pancreatic β-cells. Using the polymer, sodium alginate (SA), two formulations were prepared: PB-SA (control), and PB-CA-SA (test). Complete characterizations of the morphology, shape, size, chemical, thermal, and rheological properties, swelling and mechanical strength, cross-sectional imaging (Micro CT), stability, Zeta-potential, drug contents, and PB release profile were carried out, at different temperature and pH values. The microcapsules were applied to a NIT-1 cell culture and the supernatant was analyzed for insulin and TNF-α concentrations. CA incorporation optimized the PB microcapsules, which exhibited pseudoplastic-thixotropic rheological characteristics. The size of the microcapsules remained similar after CA addition, and the microcapsules showed even drug distribution and no chemical alterations of the excipients. Micro-CT imaging, differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy showed consistent microcapsules with uniform shape and morphology. PB-CA-SA microcapsules enhanced NIT-1 cell viability under hyperglycemic states and resulted in improved insulin release as well as reduced cytokine production at the physiological glucose levels. The addition of the primary bile acid, CA, improved the physical properties of the microcapsules and enhanced their pharmacological activity in vitro, suggesting potential applications in diabetes treatment.

Preparation of microcapsules containing double-component lubricant and self-lubricating performance of polymer composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Haiyan; Shi, Nanqi; Ji, Jing; Wang, Huaiyuan

2018-05-01

Double-component microcapsules containing lubricant oil and SiO2 nanoparticles were prepared by solvent evaporation method. The synthesized microcapsules have the regular spherical structure with the mean diameter of 105 μm and wall thickness of 15 μm. The synthesized microcapsules have excellent thermal stability, and the lubricant oil content was 71.4 wt%. Self-lubricating polymer composites were fabricated by incorporating double-component microcapsules into epoxy matrix. When the SiO2 nanoparticles content was 3 wt% relative to the lubricant oil, 10 wt% microcapsules brought 60.8% and 93.3% decrease for epoxy composites in the friction coefficient and specific wear rate, respectively. The synergetic effect between lubricant oil and SiO2 nanoparticles play a positive role in improving the triboligical properties of polymer composites.

Design and characterization of microcapsules-integrated collagen matrixes as multifunctional three-dimensional scaffolds for soft tissue engineering.

PubMed

Del Mercato, Loretta L; Passione, Laura Gioia; Izzo, Daniela; Rinaldi, Rosaria; Sannino, Alessandro; Gervaso, Francesca

2016-09-01

Three-dimensional (3D) porous scaffolds based on collagen are promising candidates for soft tissue engineering applications. The addition of stimuli-responsive carriers (nano- and microparticles) in the current approaches to tissue reconstruction and repair brings about novel challenges in the design and conception of carrier-integrated polymer scaffolds. In this study, a facile method was developed to functionalize 3D collagen porous scaffolds with biodegradable multilayer microcapsules. The effects of the capsule charge as well as the influence of the functionalization methods on the binding efficiency to the scaffolds were studied. It was found that the binding of cationic microcapsules was higher than that of anionic ones, and application of vacuum during scaffolds functionalization significantly hindered the attachment of the microcapsules to the collagen matrix. The physical properties of microcapsules-integrated scaffolds were compared to pristine scaffolds. The modified scaffolds showed swelling ratios, weight losses and mechanical properties similar to those of unmodified scaffolds. Finally, in vitro diffusional tests proved that the collagen scaffolds could stably retain the microcapsules over long incubation time in Tris-HCl buffer at 37°C without undergoing morphological changes, thus confirming their suitability for tissue engineering applications. The obtained results indicate that by tuning the charge of the microcapsules and by varying the fabrication conditions, collagen scaffolds patterned with high or low number of microcapsules can be obtained, and that the microcapsules-integrated scaffolds fully retain their original physical properties. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Polymer Claw: Instant Underwater Adhesive

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-08-27

technology is the use of pressure sensitive microcapsules , which release reactive amine crosslinkers into an adhesive putty when pressed against the surface...CLEANING AGENT RHEOLOGY 3 3.3 PRESSURE-ACTIVATED ADHESIVE 5 3.3.1 PROCESSING IMPROVEMENTS 5 3.3.2 MICROCAPSULE DIAMETER 5 3.3.3 MICROCAPSULE /RESIN...to attain a reasonable shelf life (- l wk.). The microcapsule diameter has been halved in order to improve mixing in the pressure-activated

Local Anesthetic Microcapsulation.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-06-14

viscosities as disparate as R. S. V. 4.~O~6dl/g. ’ Microencapsulation of lidocaine (base) yielded 212-300 micron microcapsules with 50% in vitro drug...release in 6 hours; 150-212 micron microcapsules released 3-0% i7n-2 hours. Etidocaing and bupivacaine vo> 41’. were microencapsulated in a more...Etidocaine Microencapsulation 9 c. Bupivacaine Microencapsulation 12 3. In Vitro Drug Release from Microcapsules 15 a. Lidocaine (base) Release Studies

Research and Development of Wound Dressing in Maxillofacial Trauma.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-07-11

microencapsulation of this drug did not appear to be warranted. A higher drug loading might be possible with microcapsules , but the maximum loading of the...powders, and microcapsules , of local anesthetic agents, antiseptics, and antibiotics. These formulations were characterized by scanning electron microscopy...were studied Povidone iodine microcapsules released drug in a sustained manner for at leasd 24 hours either as free microcapsules or imbedded in Tegaderm

Polyfibroblast: A Self-Healing and Galvanic Protection Additive

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-04-25

of premature microcapsule rupture, and have shown that the microcapsules are resilient to solvent soaking. 2 Project Goals and Objectives This month...capability of Polyfibroblast microcapsules , we designed the following test. We short-circuited a A1008 steel specimen to a strip of polyurethane...pH New experiments have revealed that alkaline plating baths etch the polymer skin layer. Fresh microcapsules placed in plating baths with a pH of

Alpha-2-macroglobulin loaded microcapsules enhance human leukocyte functions and innate immune response

PubMed Central

Canova, Donata Federici; Pavlov, Anton M.; Norling, Lucy V.; Gobbetti, Thomas; Brunelleschi, Sandra; Le Fauder, Pauline; Cenac, Nicolas; Sukhorukov, Gleb B.; Perretti, Mauro

2015-01-01

Synthetic microstructures can be engineered to deliver bioactive compounds impacting on their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Herein, we applied dextran-based layer-by-layer (LbL) microcapsules to deliver alpha-2-macroglobulin (α2MG), a protein with modulatory properties in inflammation. Extending recent observations made with dextran-microcapsules loaded with α2MG in experimental sepsis, we focused on the physical and chemical characteristics of these microstructures and determined their biology on rodent and human cells. We report an efficient encapsulation of α2MG into microcapsules, which enhanced i) human leukocyte recruitment to inflamed endothelium and ii) human macrophage phagocytosis: in both settings microcapsules were more effective than soluble α2MG or empty microcapsules (devoid of active protein). Translation of these findings revealed that intravenous administration of α2MG-microcapsules (but not empty microcapsules) promoted neutrophil migration into peritoneal exudates and augmented macrophage phagocytic functions, the latter response being associated with alteration of bioactive lipid mediators as assessed by mass spectrometry. The present study indicates that microencapsulation can be an effective strategy to harness the complex biology of α2MG with enhancing outcomes on fundamental processes of the innate immune response paving the way to potential future development in the control of sepsis. PMID:26385167

Novel dental adhesive resin with crack self-healing, antimicrobial and remineralization properties.

PubMed

Yue, Shichao; Wu, Junling; Zhang, Qiang; Zhang, Ke; Weir, Michael D; Imazato, Satoshi; Bai, Yuxing; Xu, Hockin H K

2018-05-18

Secondary caries at the tooth-restoration margins is a primary reason for restoration failure. Cracks at the margins lead to leakage which can trap bacteria, producing acids to cause caries. To date, there has been no report on developing an adhesive resin that has self-healing, antibacterial and remineralizing capabilities. The objectives of this study were to: (1) develop the first self-healing adhesive with antimicrobial and remineralizing capabilities, and (2) investigate the effects of incorporating microcapsules, dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate (DMAHDM) and nanoparticles of amorphous calcium phosphate (NACP) for the first time. Self-healing microcapsules were synthesized with poly(urea-formaldehyde) (PUF) shells containing triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) as the healing liquid. The new adhesive contained 7.5% microcapsules, 10% DMAHDM and 20% NACP. A single edge V-notched beam (SEVNB) method was used to measure the fracture toughness K IC and the autonomous crack-healing efficiency. An oral plaque microcosm biofilm model was tested. The new self-healing, antimicrobial and remineralizing dental adhesive matched the dentin bond strength of a commercial control (p > 0.1). The new adhesive achieved successful crack-healing, with an excellent K IC recovery of 67%. The new adhesive had strong antimicrobial activity, reducing biofilm colony-forming units by four orders of magnitude, and reducing biofilm acid production to 1/100th that of biofilms on the commercial control resin. A self-healing adhesive with antibacterial and remineralizing capabilities was developed for the first time. Excellent dentin bond strength, autonomous crack-healing and K IC recovery, and strong anti-biofilm properties were achieved for the new adhesive resin. The novel method of using triple agents (self-healing microcapsules + DMAHDM + NACP) is promising for applications in dental adhesives, cements, sealants and composites to combat the two main challenges: fracture and secondary caries. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Simultaneous Size Control of Microcapsule and Its Nanopores Using Polymer Concentration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cha, Jemyung; Jeong, Eun Ho; Takahiro, Arakawa; Kim, Kyung Chun; Shoji, Shuich; Go, Jeung Sang

2010-03-01

Polymeric microcapsules with nanopores are produced using the droplet-based self-assembly of a block copolymer in the microfluidic channel. Differently from the conventional wise, the sizes of the microcapsule and its nanopores are controlled by changing the concentration of the block copolymer dissolved in an organic solvent. The increase in the polymer concentration shows the increase in the size of the microcapsule and the decrease of the size and number of the nanopores. Also, to obtain the optimal morphology of the nanopores in the microcapsule, the removal process of a surfactant is newly developed by using a microporous metal mesh.

Fabrication and characterization of novel multilayered structures by stereocomplexion of poly(D-lactic acid)/poly(L-lactic acid) and self-assembly of polyelectrolytes.

PubMed

Dellacasa, Elena; Zhao, Li; Yang, Gesheng; Pastorino, Laura; Sukhorukov, Gleb B

2016-01-01

The enantiomers poly(D-lactic acid) (PDLA) and poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) were alternately adsorbed directly on calcium carbonate (CaCO3) templates and on poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) and poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) multilayer precursors in order to fabricate a novel layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly. A single layer of poly(L-lysine) (PLL) was used as a linker between the (PDLA/PLLA) n stereocomplex and the cores with and without the polymeric (PSS/PAH) n /PLL multilayer precursor (PEM). Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) were used to characterize the chemical composition and molecular weight of poly(lactic acid) polymers. Both multilayer structures, with and without polymeric precursor, were firstly fabricated and characterized on planar supports. A quartz crystal microbalance (QCM), attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and ellipsometry were used to evaluate the thickness and mass of the multilayers. Then, hollow, spherical microcapsules were obtained by the removal of the CaCO3 sacrificial template. The chemical composition of the obtained microcapsules was confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and wide X-ray diffraction (WXRD) analyses. The microcapsule morphology was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) measurements. The experimental results confirm the successful fabrication of this innovative system, and its full biocompatibility makes it worthy of further characterization as a promising drug carrier for sustained release.

Fabrication and characterization of novel multilayered structures by stereocomplexion of poly(D-lactic acid)/poly(L-lactic acid) and self-assembly of polyelectrolytes

PubMed Central

Yang, Gesheng; Pastorino, Laura

2016-01-01

Summary The enantiomers poly(D-lactic acid) (PDLA) and poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) were alternately adsorbed directly on calcium carbonate (CaCO3) templates and on poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) and poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) multilayer precursors in order to fabricate a novel layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly. A single layer of poly(L-lysine) (PLL) was used as a linker between the (PDLA/PLLA)n stereocomplex and the cores with and without the polymeric (PSS/PAH)n/PLL multilayer precursor (PEM). Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) were used to characterize the chemical composition and molecular weight of poly(lactic acid) polymers. Both multilayer structures, with and without polymeric precursor, were firstly fabricated and characterized on planar supports. A quartz crystal microbalance (QCM), attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and ellipsometry were used to evaluate the thickness and mass of the multilayers. Then, hollow, spherical microcapsules were obtained by the removal of the CaCO3 sacrificial template. The chemical composition of the obtained microcapsules was confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and wide X-ray diffraction (WXRD) analyses. The microcapsule morphology was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) measurements. The experimental results confirm the successful fabrication of this innovative system, and its full biocompatibility makes it worthy of further characterization as a promising drug carrier for sustained release. PMID:26925356

Lap shear strength and healing capability of self-healing adhesive containing epoxy/mercaptan microcapsules

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ghazali, Habibah; Ye, Lin; Zhang, Ming-Qiu

The aim of this work is to develop a self-healing polymeric adhesive formulation with epoxy/mercaptan microcapsules. Epoxy/mercaptan microcapsules were dispersed into a commercialize two-part epoxy adhesive for developing self-healing epoxy adhesive. The influence of different content of microcapsules on the shear strength and healing capability of epoxy adhesive were investigated using single-lap-joints with average thickness of adhesive layer of about 180 µm. This self-healing adhesive was used in bonding of 5000 series aluminum alloys adherents after mechanical and alkaline cleaning surface treatment. The adhesion strength was measured and presented as function of microcapsules loading. The results indicated that the virgin lapmore » shear strength was increased by about 26% with addition of 3 wt% of self-healing microcapsules. 12% to 28% recovery of the shear strength is achieved after self-healing depending on the microcapsules content. Scanning electron microscopy was used to study fracture surface of the joints. The self-healing adhesives exhibit recovery of both cohesion and adhesion properties with room temperature healing.« less

Self-healing coatings containing microcapsule

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Yang; Zhang, Wei; Liao, Le-ping; Wang, Si-jie; Li, Wu-jun

2012-01-01

Effectiveness of epoxy resin filled microcapsules was investigated for healing of cracks generated in coatings. Microcapsules were prepared by in situ polymerization of urea-formaldehyde resin to form shell over epoxy resin droplets. Characteristics of these capsules were studied by 3D measuring laser microscope, particle size analyzer, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) to investigate their surface morphology, size distribution, chemical structure and thermal stability, respectively. The results indicate that microcapsules containing epoxy resins can be synthesized successfully. The size is around 100 μm. The rough outer surface of microcapsule is composed of agglomerated urea-formaldehyde nanoparticles. The size and surface morphology of microcapsule can be controlled by selecting different processing parameters. The microcapsules basically exhibit good storage stability at room temperature, and they are chemically stable before the heating temperature is up to approximately 200 °C. The model system of self-healing coating consists of epoxy resin matrix, 10 wt% microencapsulated healing agent, 2 wt% catalyst solution. The self-healing function of this coating system is evaluated through self-healing testing of damaged and healed coated steel samples.

Novel Fabric Containing Microcapsules of Chemical Decontaminants Encapsulated within Semipermeable Polymers.

DTIC Science & Technology

The invention concerns novel clothing fabrics containing microcapsules in a resin finish comprising reactive chemical decontamination agents...allowing the toxic chemicals to diffuse into the microcapsules where they undergo irreversible detoxifying chemical reactions.

Enzyme and Chemical Encapsulation in Polymeric Microcapsules,

DTIC Science & Technology

1995-01-01

Polypyrrole microcapsules (prepared via the template method) were used for immobilization of both enzymatic and chemical catalytic systems. Enzymes...immobilized Pd nanoparticles for catalysis of hydrogen peroxide decomposition. Microcapsules loaded with glucose oxidase (GOD) were found to have...from the capsules; no leakage was observed. Subtilisin was used to show that these microcapsules can be used in non-aqueous solvents. The effect of capsule wall thickness on the rate of enzymatic reaction was also explored.

Polyfibroblast: A Self-Healing and Galvanic Protection Additive

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-11-26

MICROCAPSULES 3 3.3 FILTER, DRY, AND REDISPERSE 3 4. NEXT STEPS 4.1 FIELD TEST PREPARATIONS Polyfibroblast Progress Report -2 - 11/26/12 The Johns...Park Research Center to inspect the microcapsules . Despite the challenges of synthesizing them in larger quantities, the PPG microcapsules looked at...least as good as the equivalent APL microcapsules . PPG is now making the 5 gallons of paint for the January field test. 2 Project Goals and

Interfacial complexation in microfluidic droplets for single-step fabrication of microcapsule

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaufman, Gilad; Nejati, Siamak; Sarfati, Raphael; Boltyanskiy, Rostislav; Williams, Danielle; Liu, Wei; Schloss, Ashley; Regan, Lynn; Yan, Elsa; Dufrense, Eric; Loewenberg, Michael; Osuji, Chinedum

We present microfluidic interfacial complexation in emulsion droplets as a simple single-step approach for fabricating a large variety of stable monodisperse microcapsules with tailored mechanical properties, protein binding and controlled release behavior. We rely on electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding to direct the assembly of complementary species at oil-water droplet interfaces to form microcapsules with polyelectrolyte shells, composite polyelectrolyte-nanoparticle shells, and copolymer-nanofiber shells. Additionally, we demonstrate the formation of microcapsules by adsorption of an amphiphilic bacterial hydrophobin, BslA, at oil-in-water and water-in-oil droplets, and protein capture on these capsules using engineered variants of the hydrophobin. We discuss the composition dependence of mechanical properties, shell thickness and release behavior, and regimes of stability for microcapsule fabrication. Nanoparticle based microcapsules display an intriguing plastic deformation response which enables the formation of large aspect ratio asperities by pipette aspiration of the shell.

Development of thermoregulating microcapsules with cyclotriphosphazene as a flame retardant agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szczotok, A. M.; Carmona, M.; Serrano, A.; Kjøniksen, A. L.; Rodriguez, J. F.

2017-10-01

Thermoregulating microcapsules containing phase change material (Rubitherm®RT27) was produced by using the suspension-like polymerization technique with styrene (St), divinylbenzene (DVB) and hexa(methacryloylethylenedioxy) cyclotriphosphazene (PNC-HEMA) as co-monomers. The effect of PNC-HEMA for improving the flame retardant properties of the microcapsules were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). It was found that the thermal energy storage (TES) capacity of the microcapsules increased in the presence of PNC-HEMA. However, the morphology of the microcapsules became irregular when the content of monomer with flame retardant properties was increased. Thermogravimetric analysis performed under atmospheric air confirmed that the PNC-HEMA raised the amount of residue after the burning process, proving the formation of thermally stable char. Thus, these materials could be considered as an important alternative to commonly used microcapsules containing phase change materials (PCMs), where a lower flammability is required for their application.

Printing of polymer microcapsules for enzyme immobilization on paper substrate.

PubMed

Savolainen, Anne; Zhang, Yufen; Rochefort, Dominic; Holopainen, Ulla; Erho, Tomi; Virtanen, Jouko; Smolander, Maria

2011-06-13

Poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI) microcapsules containing laccase from Trametes hirsuta (ThL) and Trametes versicolor (TvL) were printed onto paper substrate by three different methods: screen printing, rod coating, and flexo printing. Microcapsules were fabricated via interfacial polycondensation of PEI with the cross-linker sebacoyl chloride, incorporated into an ink, and printed or coated on the paper substrate. The same ink components were used for three printing methods, and it was found that laccase microcapsules were compatible with the ink. Enzymatic activity of microencapsulated TvL was maintained constant in polymer-based ink for at least eight weeks. Thick layers with high enzymatic activity were obtained when laccase-containing microcapsules were screen printed on paper substrate. Flexo printed bioactive paper showed very low activity, since by using this printing method the paper surface was not fully covered by enzyme microcapsules. Finally, screen printing provided a bioactive paper with high water-resistance and the highest enzyme lifetime.

Preparation of Hemoglobin-Containing Microcapsules.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-06-01

were suspended in saline for storage in a refrigerator. Although in these microencapsulation experiments, the Hb was not denatured, the microcapsules ... microencapsulated Hb, l.O-ml sample of the microcapsule suspension was diluted with 10 ml 0.9% NaCI. The absorption spectrum was taken immediately after dilution...AD A135 634 PREPARATION OF HEMOGLOBIN CONTA NING MICROCAPSULES (U) I/ ,R 224 AM OS NTERNATIDNAL MENOPARKO CA REYES AUNN8 SRI-2254-1 DAMD17-80-C-01?7

Demonstration of Multifunctional DNBM Corrosion Inhibitors in Protective Coatings for Naval Air/Weapon Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-12-01

Evaluation of Increased Payloads 6 3.2 Microencapsulation Scale-up of Pilot DNBM 10 4 SURFACE TREATMENT OF MICROCAPSULES 11 4.1 Fumed Silica Additions to... Microencapsulated DNBM b. Fumed-Silica Mixed Microcapsules C. Solvent-Extracted Silanized Microcapsules Fig. 8 SEM Photomicrographs of Pilot-DNBM... Microcapsules 18 NAWCADWAR-94128-60 Section 5 FORMULATION AND TEST OF 100% DNBM AND MICROENCAPSULATED DNBM IN EPOXY-POLYAMIDE PRIMER At the start of the

In-vitro analysis of APA microcapsules for oral delivery of live bacterial cells.

PubMed

Chen, H; Ouyang, W; Jones, M; Haque, T; Lawuyi, B; Prakash, S

2005-08-01

Oral administration of microcapsules containing live bacterial cells has potential as an alternative therapy for several diseases. This article evaluates the suitability of the alginate-poly-L-lysine-alginate (APA) microcapsules for oral delivery of live bacterial cells, in-vitro, using a dynamic simulated human gastro-intestinal (GI) model. Results showed that the APA microcapsules were morphologically stable in the simulated stomach conditions, but did not retain their structural integrity after a 3-day exposure in simulated human GI media. The microbial populations of the tested bacterial cells and the activities of the tested enzymes in the simulated human GI suspension were not substantially altered by the presence of the APA microcapsules, suggesting that there were no significant adverse effects of oral administration of the APA microcapsules on the flora of the human gastrointestinal tract. When the APA microcapsules containing Lactobacillus plantarum 80 (LP80) were challenged in the simulated gastric medium (pH = 2.0), 80.0% of the encapsulated cells remained viable after a 5-min incubation; however, the viability decreased considerably (8.3%) after 15 min and dropped to 2.6% after 30 min and lower than 0.2% after 60 min, indicating the limitations of the currently obtainable APA membrane for oral delivery of live bacteria. Further in-vivo studies are required before conclusions can be made concerning the inadequacy of APA microcapsules for oral delivery of live bacterial cells.

Acute Toxicological Study of Ampicillin Anhydrate Microcapsules in Sprague-Dawley Rats.

DTIC Science & Technology

This document contains the results of an acute toxicological study to determine the toxicologic potential of ampicillin anhydrate microcapsules on...various organs of the rat. Keywords: Wound treatment; Antibiotic microcapsule ; Controlled release; Experimental data; Tables data. (aw)

Chemical and microbiological characterization of tinctures and microcapsules loaded with Brazilian red propolis extract.

PubMed

da Cruz Almeida, Erika Tayse; da Silva, Maria Cristina Delgado; Oliveira, José Marcos Dos Santos; Kamiya, Regianne Umeko; Arruda, Rodolfo Elleson Dos Santos; Vieira, Danilo Abreu; Silva, Valdemir da Costa; Escodro, Pierre Barnabé; Basílio-Júnior, Irinaldo Diniz; do Nascimento, Ticiano Gomes

2017-10-01

The aim of this study was to characterize tinctures and microcapsules loaded with an ethanol extract of red propolis through chemical, physicochemical and microbiological assays in order to establish quality control tools for nutraceutical preparations of red propolis. The markers (isoflavonoids, chalcones, pterocarpans, flavones, phenolic acids, terpenes and guttiferones) present in the tinctures A and B were identified and confirmed using LC/ESI/FTMS/Orbitrap. Four compositions (A, B, C and D) were prepared to contain B tincture of the red propolis with some pharmaceutical excipients and submitted to two drying processes, i. e. spray-drying and freeze-drying to obtain microcapsules loaded with the red propolis extract. The tinctures and microcapsules of the red propolis were submitted to the total flavonoid content and antioxidant activity tests. The antibacterial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were tested using Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25293 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 strains. The tinctures and microcapsules presented high flavonoid quantities from 20.50 to 40.79 mg/100 mg of the microcapsules. The antioxidant activity and IC 50 were determined for the tinctures A and B (IC 50 : 6.95 µg/mL and 7.48 µg/mL), the spray-dried microcapsules (IC50: 8.89-15.63 µg/mL) and the freeze-dried microcapsules (IC50: 11.83-23.36 µg/mL). The tinctures and microcapsules were proved to be bioactive against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria with inhibition halos superior to 10 mm at concentration of 200 µg/mL and MIC values of 135.87-271.74 µg/mL using gram-positive strain and 271.74-543.48 µg/mL using gram-negative strain. The tinctures and microcapsules of the red propolis have a potential application for nutraceutical products.

Microencapsulation and Electrostatic Processing Device

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R. (Inventor); Mosier, Benjamin (Inventor); Cassanto, John M. (Inventor)

2001-01-01

A microencapsulation and electrostatic processing (MEP) device is provided for forming microcapsules. In one embodiment, the device comprises a chamber having a filter which separates a first region in the chamber from a second region in the chamber. An aqueous solution is introduced into the first region through an inlet port, and a hydrocarbon/ polymer solution is introduced into the second region through another inlet port. The filter acts to stabilize the interface and suppress mixing between the two immiscible solutions as they are being introduced into their respective regions. After the solutions have been introduced and have become quiescent, the interface is gently separated from the filter. At this point, spontaneous formation of microcapsules at the interface may begin to occur, or some fluid motion may be provided to induce microcapsule formation. In any case, the fluid shear force at the interface is limited to less than 100 dynes/sq cm. This low-shear approach to microcapsule formation yields microcapsules with good sphericity and desirable size distribution. The MEP device is also capable of downstream processing of microcapsules, including rinsing, re-suspension in tertiary fluids, electrostatic deposition of ancillary coatings, and free-fluid electrophoretic separation of charged microcapsules.

Melamine-formaldehyde microcapsules filled sappan dye modified polypropylene composites: encapsulation and thermal properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Phanyawong, Suphitcha; Siengchin, Suchart; Parameswaranpillai, Jyotishkumar; Asawapirom, Udom; Polpanich, Duangporn

2018-01-01

Sappan dye, a natural dye extracted from sappan wood is widely used in cosmetics, textile dyeing and as food additives. However, it was recognized that natural dyes cannot withstand high temperature. In this study, a protective coating of melamine-formaldehyde shell material was applied over the sappan dye to improve its thermal stability. The percentage of sappan dye used in the microencapsulation was 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70 wt%. The color, shape, size, and thermal stability of sappan dye microcapsules were investigated. It was found that increasing amount of sappan dye content in the microcapsules decreased the particle size. Thermal analysis reveals that the melamine-formaldehyde resin served as an efficient protective shell for sappan dye. Besides, 30 wt% sappan dye microcapsules with different weight percent (1, 3 and 5 wt%) of sappan dye was used as modifier for polypropylene (PP). All the prepared composites are red in color which supports the thermal stability of the microcapsules. The changes in crystallinity and melting behavior of PP by the addition of microcapsules were studied in detail by differential scanning calorimetry. Thermogravimetric studies showed that the thermal stability of PP composites increased by the addition of microcapsules.

Fibrous microcapsules and methods of assembly and use thereof

DOEpatents

Stupp, Samuel; Rozkiewicz, Dorota

2015-01-27

The present invention relates to assembly of peptide amphiphiles and biopolymers into fibrous microcapsules, and uses thereof. In particular, the present invention provides devices, compositions, and methods for interfacial self-assembly of peptide amphiphiles and biopolyments into fibrous microcapsules, and uses thereof.

Synthesis of Stable Microcapsules from Trematode Eggshell Components.

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-04-29

8217 Arlington, VA 22217-5000 61153N RR4106 71,E ’Include Security Classification) (u) Synthesis of Stable Microcapsules from Trematode Eggshell Components 12...necessary and Identify by block number) 3RO~P SUB-P~iA Microcapsule , Dopa-proteins, trematode, crosslinks, eggshell 79 ABSTRAC7 ,Continue an reverse If...All other editions are obsolete. S ,.O 0 V po r t -A’X I T!L~-r ....7 KIT X - ~.W.:,iili Synthesis of Stable Microcapsules from Trematode Eggshell

Preparation of Hemoglobin-Containing Microcapsules.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-04-01

L -i2 801 PREPARRTION OF HEMOGLOBIN-CONTAINING MICROCAPSULES (U) i/i I SRI INTERNATIONAL MENLO PRK CA Z REYES APR 82 UNLSSFE SRI1-2254-2 DRMDi,7-8@-C...R oI• _ AD I PREPARATION OF HEMOGLOBIN- /2 o ) CONTAINING MICROCAPSULES . 00 ANNUAL AND FINAL REPORT ZOILA REYES, Ph.D. APRIL 1982 Supported by U.S...1/31/82) PREPARATION OF HEMOGLOBIN-CONTAINING MICROCAPSULES 6. PERFORMING ORG. REPOR’ NUMBER 2254-2 7. AUTHOR(s) 8. CONTRACT OR GRANT NUMBER(s) Zoila

Chitosan-g-MPEG-modified alginate/chitosan hydrogel microcapsules: a quantitative study of the effect of polymer architecture on the resistance to protein adsorption.

PubMed

Zheng, Jia N; Xie, Hong G; Yu, Wei T; Liu, Xiu D; Xie, Wei Y; Zhu, Jing; Ma, Xiao J

2010-11-16

The chemical modification of the alginate/chitosan/alginate (ACA) hydrogel microcapsule with methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) (MPEG) was investigated to reduce nonspecific protein adsorption and improve biocompatibility in vivo. The graft copolymer chitosan-g-MPEG (CS-g-MPEG) was synthesized, and then alginate/chitosan/alginate/CS-g-MPEG (ACAC(PEG)) multilayer hydrogel microcapsules were fabricated by the layer-by-layer (LBL) polyelectrolyte self-assembly method. A quantitative study of the modification was carried out by the gel permeation chromatography (GPC) technique, and protein adsorption on the modified microcapsules was also investigated. The results showed that the apparent graft density of the MPEG side chain on the microcapsules decreased with increases in the degree of substitution (DS) and the MPEG chain length. During the binding process, the apparent graft density of CS-g-MPEG showed rapid growth-plateau-rapid growth behavior. CS-g-MPEG was not only bound to the surface but also penetrated a certain depth into the microcapsule membranes. The copolymers that penetrated the microcapsules made a smaller contribution to protein repulsion than did the copolymers on the surfaces of the microcapsules. The protein repulsion ability decreased with the increase in DS from 7 to 29% with the same chain length of MPEG 2K. CS-g-MPEG with MPEG 2K was more effective at protein repulsion than CS-g-MPEG with MPEG 550, having a similar DS below 20%. In this study, the microcapsules modified with CS-g-MPEG2K-DS7% had the lowest IgG adsorption of 3.0 ± 0.6 μg/cm(2), a reduction of 61% compared to that on the chitosan surface.

Superparamagnetic PLGA-iron oxide microcapsules for dual-modality US/MR imaging and high intensity focused US breast cancer ablation.

PubMed

Sun, Yang; Zheng, Yuanyi; Ran, Haitao; Zhou, Yang; Shen, Hongxia; Chen, Yu; Chen, Hangrong; Krupka, Tianyi M; Li, Ao; Li, Pan; Wang, Zhibiao; Wang, Zhigang

2012-08-01

Organic/inorganic, hybrid, multifunctional, material-based platforms combine the merits of diverse functionalities of inorganic nanoparticles and the excellent biocompatibility of organic systems. In this work, superparamagnetic poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microcapsules (Fe(3)O(4)/PLGA) have been developed, as a proof-of-concept, for the application in ultrasound/magnetic resonance dual-modality biological imaging and enhancing the therapeutic efficiency of high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) breast cancer surgery in vitro and in vivo. Hydrophobic Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticles were successfully integrated into PLGA microcapsules by a typical double emulsion evaporation process. In this process, highly dispersed superparamagnetic Fe(3)O(4)/PLGA composite microcapsules with well-defined spherical morphology were obtained with an average diameter of 885.6 nm. The potential of these microcapsules as dual contrast agents for ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging were demonstrated in vitro and, also, preliminarily in vivo. Meanwhile, the prepared superparamagnetic composite microcapsules were administrated into rabbits bearing breast cancer model for the evaluation of the in vivo HIFU synergistic ablation efficiency caused by the introduction of such microcapsules. Our results showed that the employment of the composite microcapsules could efficiently enhance ultrasound imaging of cancer, and greatly enhance the HIFU ablation of breast cancer in rabbits. In addition, pathological examination was systematically performed to detect the structural changes of the target tissue caused by HIFU ablation. This finding demonstrated that successful introduction of these superparamagnetic microcapsules into HIFU cancer surgery provided an alternative strategy for the highly efficient imaging-guided non-invasive HIFU synergistic therapy of cancer. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The formulation and immunisation of oral poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) microcapsules containing a plasmid vaccine against lymphocystis disease virus in Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus).

PubMed

Tian, Jiyuan; Sun, Xiuqin; Chen, Xiguang; Yu, Juan; Qu, Lingyun; Wang, Lingchong

2008-06-01

Nucleic acid-based immunotherapy is a new treatment option for fish immunisation in intensive culture. However, DNA-based vaccines would be hydrolyzed or denaturized because of the existence of nucleases and severe gastrointestinal conditions. Poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microcapsules, loaded with plasmid DNA (pDNA) against lymphocystis disease virus (LCDV), were prepared by modified water in oil in water (W/O/W) double emulsion method in our laboratory. Encapsulation efficiency, loading percent and diameter of microcapsules were 78-88%, 0.5-0.7% and less than 10 mum, respectively. In simulated gastric fluid (SGF), less than 10% of pDNA was released from microcapsules in 12 h, and about 6.5% of pDNA was released in 12 h in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF). The content of the supercoiled of pDNA in microcapsules and control was 80% and 89% respectively, which indicated that a little supercoiled pDNA degradation occurred during encapsulation. RT-PCR showed that lots of RNA containing information of MCP gene existed in all tissues of fish vaccinated with microcapsules 10-90 days after oral administration. SDS-PAGE and immunoblots, as well as immunofluorescence images, displayed that major capsid protein (MCP) of LCDV was expressed in tissues of fish vaccinated with pDNA-loaded microcapsules. In addition, indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showed that the immune responses of sera were positive (O.D> or =0.3) from week 1 to week 24 for fish vaccinated with microcapsules, in comparison with fish vaccinated with naked pDNA. Our results suggested that PLGA microcapsules were promising oral carriers for pDNA delivery. This encapsulation technique had potential for drug delivery applications due to its ease of operation and notable immunisation efficacy.

Preparation and application of sustained release microcapsules of potassium ferrate(VI) for dinitro butyl phenol (DNBP) wastewater treatment.

PubMed

Wang, Hui-Long; Liu, Shu-Qin; Zhang, Xiu-Yan

2009-09-30

The encapsulated potassium ferrate(VI) (K(2)FeO(4)) samples were successfully prepared by phase separation method in organic solvents. The ethyl cellulose and paraffin were selected for the microcapsule wall materials (WM). The as prepared microcapsules were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The stability can be enhanced greatly when ferrate(VI) was encapsulated in the microcapsules with a mass ratio of Fe(VI):WM in the range of 1:1-1:3 for the same conserved time in air compared for pure K(2)FeO(4). The sustained release behavior of the microcapsules with different Fe(VI):WM mass ratios in 8.0M KOH solution was also investigated. The results indicated that the Fe(VI) release was reduced with increase of Fe(VI):WM mass ratios from 1:1 to 1:3. The release kinetics of the microcapsules is found to obey Ritger-Peppas equation. The prepared Fe(VI) microcapsules has been used for the removal of a typical alkyl dinitro phenol compound, 2-sec-butyl-4,6-dinitrophenol (DNBP), from aqueous solution. The effect of pH, microcapsule concentration and reaction time was studied thoroughly. The optimal pH for DNBP degradation was 6.5, and at this pH and a microcapsule concentration of 1.2g/L, approximately 93% of the DNBP was degraded after 80 min. The encapsulated ferrate(VI) samples were found to be very effective in the decolorization and COD reduction of real wastewater from DNBP manufacturing. Thus, this study showed the feasible and potential use of encapsulated Fe(VI) samples in degradation of various toxic organic contaminants and industrial effluents.

Preparation of insulin-containing microcapsules by a layer-by-layer deposition of concanavalin A and glycogen.

PubMed

Sato, Katsuhiko; Kodama, Daisuke; Endo, Yoshihiro; Anzai, Jun-ichi

2009-01-01

The sugar sensitive microcapsules were prepared by a layer-by-layer deposition of concanavalin A (Con A) and glycogen on a calcium carbonate particle containing fluorescein-labeled insulin (F-insulin). The Con A/glycogen multilayer capsules were formed through sugar-lectin interactions by using inner and outer poly(ethyleneimine)/poly(vinyl sulfate) multilayers as supports, while without the supports the microcapsules could not be formed. Fluorescent microscope observations revealed that the capsules thus prepared are spherical in shape with 3-10 microm diameter. The microcapsules released encapsulated F-insulin upon addition of sugars. This is because the added sugars replace glycogen in the binding site of Con A, resulting in the enhanced permeability of the microcapsules to insulin.

One-Step Generation of Multifunctional Polyelectrolyte Microcapsules via Nanoscale Interfacial Complexation in Emulsion (NICE)

DOE PAGES

Kim, Miju; Yeo, Seon Ju; Highley, Christopher B.; ...

2015-07-14

Polyelectrolyte microcapsules represent versatile stimuli-responsive structures that enable the encapsulation, protection, and release of active agents. Their conventional preparation methods, however, tend to be time-consuming, yield low encapsulation efficiency, and seldom allow for the dual incorporation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials, limiting their widespread utilization. In this work, we present a method to fabricate stimuli-responsive polyelectrolyte microcapsules in one step based on nanoscale interfacial complexation in emulsions (NICE) followed by spontaneous droplet hatching. NICE microcapsules can incorporate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials and also can be induced to trigger the release of encapsulated materials by changes in the solution pHmore » or ionic strength. We also show that NICE microcapsules can be functionalized with nanomaterials to exhibit useful functionality, such as response to a magnetic field and disassembly in response to light. NICE represents a potentially transformative method to prepare multifunctional nanoengineered polyelectrolyte microcapsules for various applications such as drug delivery and cell mimicry.« less

Hierarchical Porous Interlocked Polymeric Microcapsules: Sulfonic Acid Functionalization as Acid Catalysts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xiaomei; Gu, Jinyan; Tian, Lei; Zhang, Xu

2017-03-01

Owing to their unique structural and surface properties, mesoporous microspheres are widely applied in the catalytic field. Generally, increasing the surface area of the specific active phase of the catalyst is a good method, which can achieve a higher catalytic activity through the fabrication of the corresponding catalytic microspheres with the smaller size and hollow structure. However, one of the major challenges in the use of hollow microspheres (microcapsules) as catalysts is their chemical and structural stability. Herein, the grape-like hypercrosslinked polystyrene hierarchical porous interlocked microcapsule (HPIM-HCL-PS) is fabricated by SiO2 colloidal crystals templates, whose structure is the combination of open mouthed structure, mesoporous nanostructure and interlocked architecture. Numerous microcapsules assembling together and forming the roughly grape-like microcapsule aggregates can enhance the structural stability and recyclability of these microcapsules. After undergoing the sulfonation, the sulfonated HPIM-HCL-PS is served as recyclable acid catalyst for condensation reaction between benzaldehyde and ethylene glycol (TOF = 793 h-1), moreover, exhibits superior activity, selectivity and recyclability.

One-Step Generation of Multifunctional Polyelectrolyte Microcapsules via Nanoscale Interfacial Complexation in Emulsion (NICE).

PubMed

Kim, Miju; Yeo, Seon Ju; Highley, Christopher B; Burdick, Jason A; Yoo, Pil J; Doh, Junsang; Lee, Daeyeon

2015-08-25

Polyelectrolyte microcapsules represent versatile stimuli-responsive structures that enable the encapsulation, protection, and release of active agents. Their conventional preparation methods, however, tend to be time-consuming, yield low encapsulation efficiency, and seldom allow for the dual incorporation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials, limiting their widespread utilization. In this work, we present a method to fabricate stimuli-responsive polyelectrolyte microcapsules in one step based on nanoscale interfacial complexation in emulsions (NICE) followed by spontaneous droplet hatching. NICE microcapsules can incorporate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials and also can be induced to trigger the release of encapsulated materials by changes in the solution pH or ionic strength. We also show that NICE microcapsules can be functionalized with nanomaterials to exhibit useful functionality, such as response to a magnetic field and disassembly in response to light. NICE represents a potentially transformative method to prepare multifunctional nanoengineered polyelectrolyte microcapsules for various applications such as drug delivery and cell mimicry.

One-Step Generation of Multifunctional Polyelectrolyte Microcapsules via Nanoscale Interfacial Complexation in Emulsion (NICE)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kim, Miju; Yeo, Seon Ju; Highley, Christopher B.

Polyelectrolyte microcapsules represent versatile stimuli-responsive structures that enable the encapsulation, protection, and release of active agents. Their conventional preparation methods, however, tend to be time-consuming, yield low encapsulation efficiency, and seldom allow for the dual incorporation of hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials, limiting their widespread utilization. In this work, we present a method to fabricate stimuli-responsive polyelectrolyte microcapsules in one step based on nanoscale interfacial complexation in emulsions (NICE) followed by spontaneous droplet hatching. NICE microcapsules can incorporate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials and also can be induced to trigger the release of encapsulated materials by changes in the solution pHmore » or ionic strength. We also show that NICE microcapsules can be functionalized with nanomaterials to exhibit useful functionality, such as response to a magnetic field and disassembly in response to light. NICE represents a potentially transformative method to prepare multifunctional nanoengineered polyelectrolyte microcapsules for various applications such as drug delivery and cell mimicry.« less

Preparation and biosorption evaluation of Bacillus subtilis/alginate–chitosan microcapsule

PubMed Central

Tong, Ke

2017-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of alginate–chitosan microcapsule on viability characteristics of Bacillus subtilis and the ability of B. subtilis/alginate–chitosan microcapsule to remove uranium ion from aqueous solution. The effects of particle size, chitosan molecular weight and inoculum density on viability characteristics were studied using alginate–chitosan microcapsule-immobilized B. subtilis experiments. In addition, the effects of pH, immobilized spherule dosage, temperature, initial uranium ion concentration and contact time on removal of uranium ion were studied using batch adsorption experiments. The results showed that alginate–chitosan microcapsule significantly improved the viability characteristics of B. subtilis and that B. subtilis/alginate–chitosan microcapsule strongly promoted uranium ion absorption. Moreover, the optimum values of pH was 6; immobilized spherule dosage was 3.5; temperature was 20°C; initial uranium ion concentration was 150 mg/L; contact time was 3 h of uranium ion absorption and the maximum adsorption capacity of uranium ion was 376.64 mg/g. PMID:28223783

Hemoglobin protein hollow shells fabricated through covalent layer-by-layer technique

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Duan Li; He Qiang; Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Golm/Potsdam D-14476

2007-03-09

Hemoglobin (Hb) protein microcapsules held together by cross-linker, glutaraldehyde (GA), were successfully fabricated by covalent layer-by-layer (LbL) technique. The Schiff base reaction occurred on the colloid templates between the aldehyde groups of GA and free amino sites of Hb results in the formation of GA/Hb microcapsules after the removal of the templates. The structure of obtained monodisperse protein microcapsule was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The UV-Vis spectra measurements demonstrate the existence of Hb in the assembled capsules. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and potential-controlled amperometric measurements (I-t curve) confirm that hemoglobin microcapsules after fabricationmore » remain their heme electroactivity. Moreover, direct electron transfer process from protein to electrode surface was performed to detect the heme electrochemistry without using any mediator or promoter. The experiments of fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) by CLSM demonstrate that the hemoglobin protein microcapsules have an improved permeability comparing to the conventional polyelectrolyte microcapsules.« less

Fabrication of doxorubicin and heparin co-loaded microcapsules for synergistic cancer therapy.

PubMed

Chen, Jing-Xiao; Liang, Yan; Liu, Wen; Huang, Jin; Chen, Jing-Hua

2014-08-01

In this study, a layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly (HEP/CHI)5 microcapsule with doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) encapsulating inside was fabricated via alternatively depositing heparin (HEP) and chitosan (CHI) onto DOX-loaded CaCO3 templates. The microcapsules were of stable architecture and had good dispersity in aqueous medium. Fluorescence observation showed that DOX distributed both in the wall and in the cavity of microcapsules, while HEP presented in the capsule wall. The release rate of DOX increased at acidic pH as compared with that at basic pH, suggesting a pH-responsive drug release behavior. The microcapsules with positively charged CHI lying on the outer layer could protect HEP from heparanase degradation and achieve intracellular co-delivery of both DOX and HEP. Thus, the DOX-loaded microcapsules could have improved inhibition activity against A549 cells by combining pharmacological actions of DOX and HEP. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Highly magneto-responsive multilayer microcapsules for controlled release of insulin.

PubMed

Zheng, Chunli; Ding, Yafei; Liu, Xiaoqing; Wu, Yunkai; Ge, Liang

2014-11-20

In this study, magneto-responsive polyelectrolyte multilayer microcapsules were successfully prepared by the formation of shell with biocompatible iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄ NPs) and polyallylamine hydrochloride (PAH) by layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly technique. The self-assembled microcapsules were characterized by SEM, TEM and zeta-potential analyzer. According to the pH sensitivity of the microcapsule membrane permeability, insulin was encapsulated, with the encapsulation efficiency of 92.08±5.57%. The in vitro release behavior in an external alternating magnetic field indicated that once the magnetic field was applied, the drug release was greatly accelerated. In addition, according to the observed pulse release upon cyclic on-off operations of magnetic field, it could be assumed that the magneto-responsive microcapsules had an excellent "switching on" effect, which might be attributed to the rearrangement of shell structure caused by magnetic nanoparticles twisting and polyelectrolyte chains shaking, hence the increase of microcapsule membrane permeability and the enhancement of insulin release. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Aluminum phosphate microcapsule flame retardants for flexible polyurethane foams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Bin; Liu, Hong; Han, Jian

2018-04-01

In this study, highly efficient flame-retardant aluminum phosphate (ALP) microcapsules were synthesized from ALP and ammonium phosphomolybdate trihydrate. The chemical structure of the ALP microcapsules was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and elemental analysis, and the thermal degradation behavior was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Subsequently, flexible polyurethane (PU) foams were prepared with the ALP microcapsules. Limiting oxygen index (LOI) tests, vertical burning tests, smoke density rating (SDR), and cone calorimetric tests were employed to investigate the combustion of the materials. The results showed that the flexible PU foams with 15 parts per hundred polyol by weight (pphp) ALP microcapsules passed the vertical burning test and they had an increased LOI value of 28.5%. The SDR value for PU/20 pphp ALP microcapsule composites was about 16.0% and the SDR value for the pure PU was about 29.0%. The corresponding flame-retardant mechanism was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, TGA, Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) tests, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry.

Preservation Effect of Two-Stage Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum Burmanii) Oleoresin Microcapsules On Vacuum-Packed Ground Beef During Refrigerated Storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Irfiana, D.; Utami, R.; Khasanah, L. U.; Manuhara, G. J.

2017-04-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of two stage cinnamon bark oleoresin microcapsules (0%, 0.5% and 1%) on the TPC (Total Plate Count), TBA (thiobarbituric acid), pH, and RGB color (Red, Green, and Blue) of vacuum-packed ground beef during refrigerated storage (at 0, 4, 8, 12, and 16 days). This study showed that the addition of two stage cinnamon bark oleoresin microcapsules affected the quality of vacuum-packed ground beef during 16 days of refrigerated storage. The results showed that the TPC value of the vacuum-packed ground beef sample with the addition 0.5% and 1% microcapsules was lower than the value of control sample. The TPC value of the control sample, sample with additional 0.5% and 1% microcapsules were 5.94; 5.46; and 5.16 log CFU/g respectively. The TBA value of vacuum-packed ground beef were 0.055; 0.041; and 0.044 mg malonaldehyde/kg, resepectively on the 16th day of storage. The addition of two-stage cinnamon bark oleoresin microcapsules could inhibit the growth of microbia and decrease the oxidation process of vacuum-packed ground beef. Moreover, the change of vacuum-packed ground beef pH and RGB color with the addition 0.5% and 1% microcapsules were less than those of the control sample. The addition of 1% microcapsules showed the best effect in preserving the vacuum-packed ground beef.

Pyrene biodegradation with layer-by-layer assembly bio-microcapsules.

PubMed

Deng, Fucai; Zhang, Zhengfang; Yang, Chen; Guo, Chuling; Lu, Guining; Dang, Zhi

2017-04-01

Biotechnology is considered as a promising technology for the removal of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from the environment. Free bacteria are often sensitive to some biotic and abiotic factors in the environment to the extent that their ability to effect biodegradation of organic pollutants, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, is hampered. Consequently, it is imperative to carry out investigations into biological systems that will obviate or aid tolerance of bacteria to harsh environmental conditions. Chitosan/alginate bio-microcapsules produced using layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly method were tested for pyrene (PYR) biodegradation under harsh environmental conditions. Morphology observation indicated that the flake bio-microcapsules could be successfully prepared through LBL assembly method. Surface analysis showed that the bio-microcapsules had large fractions of mesopores. The results of the biodegradation experiments revealed that the 95% of 10mgL -1 PYR could be removed by the bacteria encapsulated chitosan/alginate bio-microcapsules in 3 days, which was higher than that of the free bacteria (59%). Compared to the free cells, the bacteria encapsulated chitosan/alginate bio-microcapsules produced 1-6 times higher PYR biodegradation rates at a high initial PYR concentration (50mgL -1 ) and extremely low pH values (pH =3) or temperatures (10°C or 40°C), as well as high salt stress. The results indicated that bacteria in microcapsules treatment gained a much higher tolerance to environmental stress and LBL bio-microcapsule could be promising candidate for remediating the organic pollutants. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Microcapsules functionalized with neuraminidase can enter vascular endothelial cells in vitro

PubMed Central

Liu, Weizhi; Wang, Xiaocong; Bai, Ke; Lin, Miao; Sukhorukov, Gleb; Wang, Wen

2014-01-01

Microcapsules made of polyelectrolyte multilayers exhibit no or low toxicity, appropriate mechanical stability, variable controllable degradation and can incorporate remote release mechanisms triggered by various stimuli, making them well suited for targeted drug delivery to live cells. This study investigates interactions between microcapsules made of synthetic (i.e. polystyrenesulfonate sodium salt/polyallylamine hydrochloride) or natural (i.e. dextran sulfate/poly-l-arginine) polyelectrolyte and human umbilical vein endothelial cells with particular focus on the effect of the glycocalyx layer on the intake of microcapsules by endothelial cells. Neuraminidase cleaves N-acetyl neuraminic acid residues of glycoproteins and targets the sialic acid component of the glycocalyx on the cell membrane. Three-dimensional confocal images reveal that microcapsules, functionalized with neuraminidase, can be internalized by endothelial cells. Capsules without neuraminidase are blocked by the glycocalyx layer. Uptake of the microcapsules is most significant in the first 2 h. Following their internalization by endothelial cells, biodegradable DS/PArg capsules rupture by day 5; however, there is no obvious change in the shape and integrity of PSS/PAH capsules within the period of observation. Results from the study support our hypothesis that the glycocalyx functions as an endothelial barrier to cross-membrane movement of microcapsules. Neuraminidase-loaded microcapsules can enter endothelial cells by localized cleavage of glycocalyx components with minimum disruption of the glycocalyx layer and therefore have high potential to act as drug delivery vehicles to reach tissues beyond the endothelial barrier of blood vessels. PMID:25339691

Light-responsive polymer microcapsules as delivery systems for natural active agents

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bizzarro, Valentina; Carfagna, Cosimo; Cerruti, Pierfrancesco

2016-05-18

In this work we report the preparation and the release behavior of UV-responsive polymeric microcapsules containing essential oils as a core. The oil acted also as a monomer solvent during polymerization. Accordingly, the potentially toxic organic solvent traditionally used was replaced with a natural active substance, resulting in a more sustainable functional system. Polymer shell was based on a lightly cross-linked polyamide containing UV-sensitive azobenzene moieties in the main chain. The micro-sized capsules were obtained via interfacial polycondensation in o/w emulsion, and their mean size was measured via Dynamic Light Scattering. Shape and morphology were analyzed through Scanning Electron andmore » Optical Microscopy. UV-responsive behavior was evaluated via spectrofluorimetry, by assessing the release kinetics of a fluorescent probe molecule upon UV light irradiation (λ{sub max}=360 nm). The irradiated samples showed an increase in fluorescence intensity, in accordance with the increase of the probe molecule concentration in the release medium. As for the un-irradiated sample, no changes could be detected demonstrating the effectiveness of the obtained releasing system.« less

Microencapsulated Phase Change Materials in Solar-Thermal Conversion Systems: Understanding Geometry-Dependent Heating Efficiency and System Reliability.

PubMed

Zheng, Zhaoliang; Chang, Zhuo; Xu, Guang-Kui; McBride, Fiona; Ho, Alexandra; Zhuola, Zhuola; Michailidis, Marios; Li, Wei; Raval, Rasmita; Akhtar, Riaz; Shchukin, Dmitry

2017-01-24

The performance of solar-thermal conversion systems can be improved by incorporation of nanocarbon-stabilized microencapsulated phase change materials (MPCMs). The geometry of MPCMs in the microcapsules plays an important role for improving their heating efficiency and reliability. Yet few efforts have been made to critically examine the formation mechanism of different geometries and their effect on MPCMs-shell interaction. Herein, through changing the cooling rate of original emulsions, we acquire MPCMs within the nanocarbon microcapsules with a hollow structure of MPCMs (h-MPCMs) or solid PCM core particles (s-MPCMs). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy reveals that the capsule shell of the h-MPCMs is enriched with nanocarbons and has a greater MPCMs-shell interaction compared to s-MPCMs. This results in the h-MPCMs being more stable and having greater heat diffusivity within and above the phase transition range than the s-MPCMs do. The geometry-dependent heating efficiency and system stability may have important and general implications for the fundamental understanding of microencapsulation and wider breadth of heating generating systems.

Encapsulation of methotrexate loaded magnetic microcapsules for magnetic drug targeting and controlled drug release

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chakkarapani, Prabu; Subbiah, Latha; Palanisamy, Selvamani; Bibiana, Arputha; Ahrentorp, Fredrik; Jonasson, Christian; Johansson, Christer

2015-04-01

We report on the development and evaluation of methotrexate magnetic microcapsules (MMC) for targeted rheumatoid arthritis therapy. Methotrexate was loaded into CaCO3-PSS (poly (sodium 4-styrenesulfonate)) doped microparticles that were coated successively with poly (allylamine hydrochloride) and poly (sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) by layer-by-layer technique. Ferrofluid was incorporated between the polyelectrolyte layers. CaCO3-PSS core was etched by incubation with EDTA yielding spherical MMC. The MMC were evaluated for various physicochemical, pharmaceutical parameters and magnetic properties. Surface morphology, crystallinity, particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, loading capacity, drug release pattern, release kinetics and AC susceptibility studies revealed spherical particles of ~3 μm size were obtained with a net zeta potential of +24.5 mV, 56% encapsulation and 18.6% drug loading capacity, 96% of cumulative drug release obeyed Hixson-Crowell model release kinetics. Drug excipient interaction, surface area, thermal and storage stability studies for the prepared MMC was also evaluated. The developed MMC offer a promising mode of targeted and sustained release drug delivery for rheumatoid arthritis therapy.

The use of response surface methodology in the evaluation of captopril microparticles manufactured using an oil in oil solvent evaporation technique.

PubMed

Khamanga, Sandile Maswazi; Walker, Roderick B

2012-01-01

Captopril (CPT) microparticles were manufactured by solvent evaporation using acetone (dispersion phase) and liquid paraffin (manufacturing phase) with Eudragit® and Methocel® as coat materials. Design of experiments and response surface methodology (RSM) approaches were used to optimize the process. The microparticles were characterized based on the percent of drug released and yield, microcapsule size, entrapment efficiency and Hausner ratio. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Infrared (IR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and in vitro dissolution studies were conducted. The microcapsules were spherical, free-flowing and IR and DSC thermograms revealed that CPT was stable. The percent drug released was investigated with respect to Eudragit® RS and Methocel® K100M, Methocel® K15M concentrations and homogenizing speed. The optimal conditions for microencapsulation were 1.12 g Eudragit® RS, 0.67 g Methocel® K100M and 0.39 g Methocel® K15M at a homogenizing speed of 1643 rpm and 89% CPT was released. The value of RSM-mediated microencapsulation of CPT was elucidated.

21 CFR 172.230 - Microcapsules for flavoring substances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... percent by combined weight of the microcapsule and spice-flavoring substance. (b) The microcapsules... listed in paragraphs (a) (1) and (4) of this section may be used only for encapsulating authorized spice... for use to ensure heating to temperatures which will melt the wax to release the spice-flavoring...

21 CFR 172.230 - Microcapsules for flavoring substances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... percent by combined weight of the microcapsule and spice-flavoring substance. (b) The microcapsules... listed in paragraphs (a) (1) and (4) of this section may be used only for encapsulating authorized spice... for use to ensure heating to temperatures which will melt the wax to release the spice-flavoring...

Encapsulated Multifunction Corrosion Inhibitive Primer.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-11-01

Optimization of Microcapsule Preparation ...................... 162 24 Optimized Procedure for Polyurea Microencapsulation ................... 166 25... microcapsules , which suggests that a nearly quantitative yield of microencapsulated inhibitor was achieved. The burst ratio is defined as the conductivity after...effectiveness of the microencapsulation approach in achieving sustained release. 4. Loading Determination of Polyurea Microcapsules In studies relating

Modification of polyelectrolyte microcapsules into a container for the low molecular weight compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goryacheva, O. A.; Gao, H.; Sukhorukov, G. B.

2018-04-01

Polyelectrolyte microcapsules are one of the most successful developments in the direction of target drug delivery. Nevertheless, to encapsulate low molecular weight compounds and to deliver the targeted drugs it is necessary to modify the surface of the microcapsules. Silica nanostructures obtained as result of hydrolysis of (3-Aminopropyl)- triethoxysilane (APTES) were used for the modification of the microcapsules. This material shows no toxic effect on cells and is capable of biodegradation. Amino-groups in the structure of APTES make it possible for further direct bioconjugation.

Engineering Microvascularized 3D Tissue Using Alginate-Chitosan Microcapsules.

PubMed

Zhang, Wujie; Choi, Jung K; He, Xiaoming

2017-02-01

Construction of vascularized tissues is one of the major challenges of tissue engineering. The goal of this study was to engineer 3D microvascular tissues by incorporating the HUVEC-CS cells with a collagen/alginate-chitosan (AC) microcapsule scaffold. In the presence of AC microcapsules, a 3D vascular-like network was clearly observable. The results indicated the importance of AC microcapsules in engineering microvascular tissues -- providing support and guiding alignment of HUVEC-CS cells. This approach provides an alternative and promising method for constructing vascularized tissues.

Microencapsulation Technology for Corrosion Mitigation by Smart Coatings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buhrow, Jerry; Li, Wenyan; Jolley, Scott; Calle, Luz M.

2011-01-01

A multifunctional, smart coating for the autonomous control of corrosion is being developed based on micro-encapsulation technology. Corrosion indicators as well as corrosion inhibitors have been incorporated into microcapsules, blended into several paint systems, and tested for corrosion detection and protection effectiveness. This paper summarizes the development, optimization, and testing of microcapsules specifically designed to be incorporated into a smart coating that will deliver corrosion inhibitors to mitigate corrosion autonomously. Key words: smart coating, corrosion inhibition, microencapsulation, microcapsule, pH sensitive microcapsule, corrosion inhibitor, corrosion protection pain

pH-controlled drug loading and release from biodegradable microcapsules.

PubMed

Zhao, Qinghe; Li, Bingyun

2008-12-01

Microcapsules made of biopolymers are of both scientific and technological interest and have many potential applications in medicine, including their use as controlled drug delivery devices. The present study makes use of the electrostatic interaction between polycations and polyanions to form a multilayered microcapsule shell and also to control the loading and release of charged drug molecules inside the microcapsule. Micron-sized calcium carbonate (CaCO3) particles were synthesized and integrated with chondroitin sulfate (CS) through a reaction between sodium carbonate and calcium nitrate tetrahydrate solutions suspended with CS macromolecules. Oppositely charged biopolymers were alternately deposited onto the synthesized particles using electrostatic layer-by-layer self-assembly, and glutaraldehyde was introduced to cross-link the multilayered shell structure. Microcapsules integrated with CS inside the multilayered shells were obtained after decomposition of the CaCO3 templates. The integration of a matrix (i.e., CS) permitted the subsequent selective control of drug loading and release. The CS-integrated microcapsules were loaded with a model drug, bovine serum albumin labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC-BSA), and it was shown that pH was an effective means of controlling the loading and release of FITC-BSA. Such CS-integrated microcapsules may be used for controlled localized drug delivery as biodegradable devices, which have advantages in reducing systemic side effects and increasing drug efficacy.

Preparation of ultrathin, robust protein microcapsules through template-mediated interfacial reaction between amine and catechol groups.

PubMed

Wang, Xiaoli; Shi, Jiafu; Jiang, Zhongyi; Li, Zheng; Zhang, Wenyan; Song, Xiaokai; Ai, Qinghong; Wu, Hong

2013-11-11

A novel approach to the synthesis of protein microcapsules is developed through template-mediated interfacial reaction. Protein-doped CaCO3 templates are first synthetized via coprecipitation and then coated with a catechol-containing alginate (AlgDA) layer. Afterward, the templates are exposed to ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid disodium (EDTA) solution to dissolve CaCO3. During CaCO3 dissolution, the generated CO2 gas pushes protein molecules moving to the AlgDA layer, and thereby Michael addition and Schiff base reactions proceed, forming the shell of protein microcapsules. Three kinds of proteins, namely, bovine serum albumin, catalase, and protamine sulfate, are utilized. The shell thickness of microcapsule varies from 25 to 82 nm as the doping amount of protein increased from 2 to 6 mg per 66 mg CaCO3. The protein microcapsules have a robust but flexible shell and can be reversibly deformed upon exposure to osmotic pressure. The bioactivity of protein microcapsules is demonstrated through enzymatic catalysis experiments. The protein microcapsules remain about 80% enzymatic activity of the equivalent free protein. Hopefully, our approach could be extended to many other applications such as drug/gene delivery, tissue scaffolds, and catalysis due to the universality of Michael reaction and Schiff base reactions.

Facile preparation of robust microcapsules by manipulating metal-coordination interaction between biomineral layer and bioadhesive layer.

PubMed

Zhang, Lei; Shi, Jiafu; Jiang, Zhongyi; Jiang, Yanjun; Meng, Ruijie; Zhu, Yuanyuan; Liang, Yanpeng; Zheng, Yang

2011-02-01

A novel approach combining biomimetic mineralization and bioadhesion is proposed to prepare robust and versatile organic-inorganic hybrid microcapsules. More specifically, these microcapsules are fabricated by sequential deposition of inorganic layer and organic layer on the surface of CaCO(3) microparticles, followed by the dissolution of CaCO(3) microparticles using EDTA. During the preparation process, protamine induces the hydrolysis and condensation of titania or silica precursor to form the inorganic layer or the biomineral layer. The organic layer or bioadhesive layer was formed through the rapid, spontaneous oxidative polymerization of dopamine into polydopamine (PDA) on the surface of the biomineral layer. There exist multiple interactions between the inorganic layer and the organic layer. Thus, the as-prepared organic-inorganic hybrid microcapsules acquire much higher mechanical stability and surface reactivity than pure titania or pure silica microcapsules. Furthermore, protamine/titania/polydopamine hybrid microcapsules display superior mechanical stability to protamine/silica/polydopamine hybrid microcapsules because of the formation of Ti(IV)-catechol coordination complex between the biomineral layer and the bioadhesive layer. As an example of application, three enzymes are respectively immobilized through physical encapsulation in the lumen, in situ entrapment within the wall and chemical attachment on the out surface of the hybrid microcapsules. The as-constructed multienzyme system displays higher catalytic activity and operational stability. Hopefully, the approach developed in this study will evolve as a generic platform for facile and controllable preparation of organic-inorganic hybrid materials with different compositions and shapes for a variety of applications in catalysis, sensor, drug/gene delivery.

Entrapment by magnetic microcapsules of the protein pyrolysates IQ, PhIP and Glu-P-1, and alteration of IQ metabolite exposure within the rat gastrointestinal tract by risk-modulating components of the human diet.

PubMed

O'Neill, I; Ohgaki, H; Ellul, A; Turesky, R J

1992-12-01

The entrapment of heterocyclic aromatic amine gastrointestinal (GI) carcinogens (HAAs), by retrievable semipermeable magnetic polyethylenimine (PEI) microcapsules was investigated in vitro and in vivo as an approach for human biomonitoring. Previous studies showed that PEI microcapsules successfully entrapped benzo[a]pyrene (B[]P) and its metabolites in the GI tract of rodents. In this study, we have shown that 14C-labelled 2-amino-3-methylimidazo[4,5f]quinoline (IQ), 2-amino-1-methylphenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) and 2-amino-6-methyldipyrido[1,2-a:3'2'-d]imidazole (Glu-P-1) are adsorbed to PEI microcapsules in vitro and can be desorbed by treatment with ammoniac methanol. Binding of HAAs to PEI microcapsules containing copper phthalocyanine (TCPTS), a moiety which reversibly binds chemicals with aromatic planar structures, was 2- to 4-fold higher than with unmodified PEI microcapsules. PEI microcapsules also acted as a nucleophile and trapped the proximate carcinogenic metabolite of IQ, 2-hydroxy-amino-3-methyl-imidazo[4,5f]quinoline (N-hydroxy-IQ). The entrapment of 14C-labelled IQ and PhIP by microcapsules was investigated in vivo in male F344 rats fed a conventional chow diet or a human diet with varying amounts of fat and beef intake typically consumed in the UK. Animals were adapted to human diets which were either high (H) or low (L) in fat (F), beef protein (B) and dietary fibre non-starch polysaccharide (NSP). Microcapsule entrapment of IQ and metabolites was 0.5-2.0% of the dose and 4-fold higher in rats consuming a HF/HB/LNSP than those consuming a LF/LB/HNSP diet, these being respectively putatative high- and low-risk-associated diets. In the HF/HB/LNSP diet group, a higher amount of IQ metabolites were detected in the microcapsules; a lower proportion of covalently bound metabolites could be removed by acid hydrolysis. Urinary excretion was 2-fold greater and analysis of the urinary metabolites showed there to be lower sulfotransferase activity than in the LF/LB/HNSP group. The amount of 14C-labelled PhIP entrapped by PEI microcapsules was 1.5% of the dose in rodents fed a LF/HB/LNSP human diet and binding was 7-fold higher than in rodents fed a semi-purified diet. These results demonstrate that microcapsules can entrap IQ and PhIP and their metabolites within the GI tract of rodents. The amounts entrapped by microcapsules in the rodent model suggests that this approach may be feasible for human biomonitoring of HAAs and for non-invasively studying dietary modulations of carcinogen exposure within a potential HAA target organ at high risk from as-yet unidentified causes.

Process and Material Design for Micro-Encapsulated Ionic Liquids in Post-Combustion CO 2 Capture

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hong, Bo; Brennecke, Joan F; McCready, Mark

Aprotic Heterocyclic Anion (AHA) Ionic Liquids (ILs) have been identified as promising new solvents for post-combustion carbon capture due to their high CO 2 uptake and the high tenability 1,2 of their binding energy with CO 2. Some of these compounds change phase (solid to liquid) on absorption of CO 2; these Phase Change ILs (PCILs)3 offer the additional advantage that part of the heat needed to desorb the CO2 from the absorbent is provided by the heat of fusion as the PCIL solidifies upon release of CO 2. However, the relatively high viscosity of AHA ILs and the occurrencemore » of a phase change in PCILs present challenges for conventional absorption equipment. To overcome these challenges we are pursuing the use of new technology to micro-encapsulate the AHA ILs and PCILs. Our partners at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have successfully demonstrated this technology in the application of post-combustion carbon capture with sodium and potassium carbonate solutions,4 and have recently shown the feasibility of micro-encapsulation of an AHA IL for carbon capture.5 The large effective surface area and high CO 2 permeability of the micro-capsules is expected to offset the drawback of the high IL viscosity and to provide for a more efficient and cost-effective mass transfer operation involving AHA ILs and PCILs. These opportunities, however, present us with both process and materials design questions. For example, what is the target CO 2 absorption strength (enthalpy of chemical absorption) for the tunable AHA IL? What is the target for micro-capsule diameter in order to obtain a high mass transfer rate and good fluidization performance? What are the appropriate temperatures and pressures for the absorber and stripper? In order to address these and other questions, we have developed a rate-based model of a post-combustion CO 2 capture process using micro-encapsulated ILs. As a performance baseline, we have also developed a rate-based model of a standard packed bed absorber using an un-encapsulated AHA IL absorbent. Using such models we can determine optimal CO 2 capture performance and investigate the sensitivity of the optimum with respect to the key thermo-physical and transport properties of the IL (e.g., CO 2 binding energy, viscosity, etc.) and the micro-capsules (e.g. diameter, CO 2 permeability, etc.). Results of these process and material design studies will be presented, and the performance of this novel micro-encapsulation technology will be assessed.« less

Metastable Packaging For Transient Electronics

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

dated 16 Jan 09. Report contains color. 14. ABSTRACT Metastable polymeric materials were synthesized, formulated with additives and microcapsules ...photoacid generation, thermal activation, and mechanical rupture of acid-filled microcapsules -- were investigated. 15. SUBJECT TERMS transient...carbonate sulfone) (PVBCS)... 11  3.3  Thermal and Mechanical Triggered Transience of Electronic Devices via Embedded Microcapsules

Coatings and methods for corrosion detection and/or reduction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calle, Luz M. (Inventor); Li, Wenyan (Inventor)

2010-01-01

Coatings and methods are provided. An embodiment of the coating includes microcapsules that contain at least one of a corrosion inhibitor, a film-forming compound, and an indicator. The microcapsules are dispersed in a coating vehicle. A shell of each microcapsule breaks down in the presence of an alkaline condition, resulting from corrosion.

Phycocyanin stability in microcapsules processed by spray drying method using different inlet temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Purnamayati, L.; Dewi, EN; Kurniasih, R. A.

2018-02-01

Phycocyanin is natural blue colorant which easily damages by heat. The inlet temperature of spray dryer is an important parameter representing the feature of the microcapsules.The aim of this study was to investigate the phycocyanin stability of microcapsules made from Spirulina sp with maltodextrin and κ-Carrageenan as the coating material, processed by spray drying method in different inlet temperature. Microcapsules were processed in three various inlet temperaturei.e. 90°C, 110°C, and 130°C, respectively. The results indicated that phycocyanin microcapsule with 90°C of inlet temperature produced the highest moisture content, phycocyanin concentration and encapsulation efficiency of 3,5%, 1,729% and 29,623%, respectively. On the other hand, the highest encapsulation yield was produced by 130°C of theinlet temperature of 29,48% and not significantly different with 110°C. The results of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed that phycocyanin microcapsules with 110°C of inlet temperature produced the most rounded shape. To sum up, 110°C was the best inlet temperature to phycocyanin microencapsulation by the spray dryer.

X-Ray Crystallography Reagent

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R. (Inventor); Mosier, Benjamin (Inventor)

2003-01-01

Microcapsules prepared by encapsulating an aqueous solution of a protein, drug or other bioactive substance inside a semi-permeable membrane by are disclosed. The microcapsules are formed by interfacial coacervation under conditions where the shear forces are limited to 0-100 dynes per square centimeter at the interface. By placing the microcapsules in a high osmotic dewatering solution. the protein solution is gradually made saturated and then supersaturated. and the controlled nucleation and crystallization of the protein is achieved. The crystal-filled microcapsules prepared by this method can be conveniently harvested and stored while keeping the encapsulated crystals in essentially pristine condition due to the rugged. protective membrane. Because the membrane components themselves are x-ray transparent, large crystal-containing microcapsules can be individually selected, mounted in x-ray capillary tubes and subjected to high energy x-ray diffraction studies to determine the 3-D smucture of the protein molecules. Certain embodiments of the microcapsules of the invention have composite polymeric outer membranes which are somewhat elastic, water insoluble, permeable only to water, salts, and low molecular weight molecules and are structurally stable in fluid shear forces typically encountered in the human vascular system.

Coordination-Enabled One-Step Assembly of Ultrathin, Hybrid Microcapsules with Weak pH-Response.

PubMed

Yang, Chen; Wu, Hong; Yang, Xiao; Shi, Jiafu; Wang, Xiaoli; Zhang, Shaohua; Jiang, Zhongyi

2015-05-06

In this study, an ultrathin, hybrid microcapsule is prepared though coordination-enabled one-step assembly of tannic acid (TA) and titanium(IV) bis(ammonium lactate) dihydroxide (Ti-BALDH) upon a hard-templating method. Briefly, the PSS-doped CaCO3 microspheres with a diameter of 5-8 μm were synthesized and utilized as the sacrificial templates. Then, TA-Ti(IV) coatings were formed on the surface of the PSS-doped CaCO3 templates through soaking in TA and Ti-BALDH aqueous solutions under mild conditions. After removing the template by EDTA treatment, the TA-Ti(IV) microcapsules with a capsule wall thickness of 15 ± 3 nm were obtained. The strong coordination bond between polyphenol and Ti(IV) conferred the TA-Ti(IV) microcapsules high structural stability in the range of pH values 3.0-11.0. Accordingly, the enzyme-immobilized TA-Ti(IV) microcapsules exhibited superior pH and thermal stabilities. This study discloses the formation of TA-Ti(IV) microcapsules that are suitable for use as supports in catalysis due to their extensive pH and thermal stabilities.

Synthesis and Characterization of Stimuli-Responsive Poly(2-dimethylamino-ethylmethacrylate)-Grafted Chitosan Microcapsule for Controlled Pyraclostrobin Release

PubMed Central

Xu, Chunli; Zhou, Zhaolu; Cao, Chong; Zhu, Feng; Li, Fengmin; Huang, Qiliang

2018-01-01

Controllable pesticide release in response to environmental stimuli is highly desirable for better efficacy and fewer adverse effects. Combining the merits of natural and synthetic polymers, pH and temperature dual-responsive chitosan copolymer (CS-g-PDMAEMA) was facilely prepared through free radical graft copolymerization with 2-(dimethylamino) ethyl 2-methacrylate (DMAEMA) as the vinyl monomer. An emulsion chemical cross-linking method was used to expediently fabricate pyraclostrobin microcapsules in situ entrapping the pesticide. The loading content and encapsulation efficiency were 18.79% and 64.51%, respectively. The pyraclostrobin-loaded microcapsules showed pH-and thermo responsive release. Microcapsulation can address the inherent limitation of pyraclostrobin that is photo unstable and highly toxic on aquatic organisms. Compared to free pyraclostrobin, microcapsulation could dramatically improve its photostability under ultraviolet light irradiation. Lower acute toxicity against zebra fish on the first day and gradually similar toxicity over time with that of pyraclostrobin technical concentrate were in accordance with the release profiles of pyraclostrobin microcapsules. This stimuli-responsive pesticide delivery system may find promising application potential in sustainable plant protection. PMID:29538323

Comparative study of cytotoxicity of ferromagnetic nanoparticles and magnetitecontaining polyelectrolyte microcapsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Minaeva, O. V.; Brodovskaya, E. P.; Pyataev, M. A.; Gerasimov, M. V.; Zharkov, M. N.; Yurlov, I. A.; Kulikov, O. A.; Kotlyarov, A. A.; Balykova, L. A.; Kokorev, A. V.; Zaborovskiy, A. V.; Pyataev, N. A.; Sukhorukov, G. B.

2017-01-01

The cytotoxicity of magnetite nanoparticles (MNP) stabilized with citrate acidand polyelectrolyte multilayer microcapsules containing these particles in the shell is analyzed. Microcapsules were prepared by co-precipitation of iron (II) and (III) chlorides. Polyelectrolyte microcapsules synthesized by the layer-by-layer method from biodegradable polymers polyarginine and dextran sulfate. Cytotoxicity of the synthesized objects was studied on the L929 cells culture and human leucocytes. It was also investigated the phagocytic activity of leukocytes for the MNP and magnetite containing polyelectrolyte microcapsules (MCPM). A set of tests (MTT assay, neutral red uptake assay, lactate dehydrogenase release assay) was used to study the cytotoxicity in vitro. All the tests have shown that the magnetic nanoparticles have a greater cytotoxicity in comparison with microcapsules containing an equivalent amount of magnetite. In contrast to the mouse fibroblast culture, human leukocytes were more resistant to the toxic effects of magnetite. At the concentrations used in our studies no significant reduction in the viability of leukocytes has been registered. Both MNP and MCPM undergo phagocytosis, however, the phagocytic activity of leukocytes for these particles was lower than for the standard objects (latex microparticles).

A silicone rubber based composites using n-octadecane/poly (styrene-methyl methacrylate) microcapsules as energy storage particle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, W. L.; Chen, Z.

A phase-change energy-storage material, silicone rubber (SR) coated n-octadecane/poly (styrene-methyl methacrylate) (SR/OD/P(St-MMA)) microcapsule composites, was prepared by mixing SR and OD/P(St-MMA) microcapsules. The microcapsule content and silicone rubber coated method were investigated. The morphology and thermal properties of the composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and heat storage properties. The results showed that the thermal and mechanical properties of SR/OD/P(St-MMA) composites were excellent when the microcapsules were coated with room temperature vulcanized silicone rubber (RTVSR), of which content was 2 phr (per hundred rubber). The enthalpy value of the composites was 67.6 J g-1 and the composites were found to have good energy storage function.

UV-Triggered Self-Healing of a Single Robust SiO2 Microcapsule Based on Cationic Polymerization for Potential Application in Aerospace Coatings.

PubMed

Guo, Wanchun; Jia, Yin; Tian, Kesong; Xu, Zhaopeng; Jiao, Jiao; Li, Ruifei; Wu, Yuehao; Cao, Ling; Wang, Haiyan

2016-08-17

UV-triggered self-healing of single microcapsules has been a good candidate to enhance the life of polymer-based aerospace coatings because of its rapid healing process and healing chemistry based on an accurate stoichiometric ratio. However, free radical photoinitiators used in single microcapsules commonly suffer from possible deactivation due to the presence of oxygen in the space environment. Moreover, entrapment of polymeric microcapsules into coatings often involves elevated temperature or a strong solvent, probably leading to swelling or degradation of polymer shell, and ultimately the loss of active healing species into the host matrix. We herein describe the first single robust SiO2 microcapsule self-healing system based on UV-triggered cationic polymerization for potential application in aerospace coatings. On the basis of the similarity of solubility parameters of the active healing species and the SiO2 precursor, the epoxy resin and cationic photoinitiator are successfully encapsulated into a single SiO2 microcapsule via a combined interfacial/in situ polymerization. The single SiO2 microcapsule shows solvent resistance and thermal stability, especially a strong resistance for thermal cycling in a simulated space environment. In addition, the up to 89% curing efficiency of the epoxy resin in 30 min, and the obvious filling of scratches in the epoxy matrix demonstrate the excellent UV-induced healing performance of SiO2 microcapsules, attributed to a high load of healing species within the capsule (up to 87 wt %) and healing chemistry based on an accurate stoichiometric ratio of the photoinitiator and epoxy resin at 9/100. More importantly, healing chemistry based on a UV-triggered cationic polymerization mechanism is not sensitive to oxygen, extremely facilitating future embedment of this single SiO2 microcapsule in spacecraft coatings to achieve self-healing in a space environment with abundant UV radiation and oxygen.

Formation of Uniform Hollow Silica microcapsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Huan; Kim, Chanjoong

2012-02-01

Microcapsules are small containers with diameters in the range of 0.1 -- 100 μm. Mesoporous microcapsules with hollow morphologies possess unique properties such as low-density and high encapsulation capacity, while allowing controlled release by permeating substances with a specific size and chemistry. Our process is a one-step fabrication of monodisperse hollow silica capsules with a hierarchical pore structure and high size uniformity using double emulsion templates obtained by the glass-capillary microfluidic technique to encapsulate various active ingredients. These hollow silica microcapsules can be used as biomedical applications such as drug delivery and controlled release.

Formation of Uniform Hollow Silica microcapsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Huan; Kim, Chanjoong

2013-03-01

Microcapsules are small containers with diameters in the range of 0.1 - 100 μm. Mesoporous microcapsules with hollow morphologies possess unique properties such as low-density and high encapsulation capacity, while allowing controlled release by permeating substances with a specific size and chemistry. Our process is a one-step fabrication of monodisperse hollow silica capsules with a hierarchical pore structure and high size uniformity using double emulsion templates obtained by the glass-capillary microfluidic technique to encapsulate various active ingredients. These hollow silica microcapsules can be used as biomedical applications such as drug delivery and controlled release.

Multilayered Polyelectrolyte Microcapsules: Interaction with the Enzyme Cytochrome C Oxidase

PubMed Central

Pastorino, Laura; Dellacasa, Elena; Noor, Mohamed R.; Soulimane, Tewfik; Bianchini, Paolo; D'Autilia, Francesca; Antipov, Alexei; Diaspro, Alberto; Tofail, Syed A. M.; Ruggiero, Carmelina

2014-01-01

Cell-sized polyelectrolyte capsules functionalized with a redox-driven proton pump protein were assembled for the first time. The interaction of polyelectrolyte microcapsules, fabricated by electrostatic layer-by-layer assembly, with cytochrome c oxidase molecules was investigated. We found that the cytochrome c oxidase retained its functionality, that the functionalized microcapsules interacting with cytochrome c oxidase were permeable and that the permeability characteristics of the microcapsule shell depend on the shell components. This work provides a significant input towards the fabrication of an integrated device made of biological components and based on specific biomolecular functions and properties. PMID:25372607

Release of antimicrobial actives from microcapsules by the action of axillary bacteria.

PubMed

Kromidas, L; Perrier, E; Flanagan, J; Rivero, R; Bonnet, I

2006-04-01

We describe the use of unique microcapsules that may be degraded by the actions of bacteria. These microcapsules are approximately 35 mum in diameter, are composed of natural protein, and may be filled with a variety of actives. We describe the use of antimicrobial actives such as farnesol and methylparaben to demonstrate that their release by the degradative actions of axillary bacteria such as Corynebacterium minutissimum, C. urealyticum, and Staphylococcus epidermidis leads to their demise. These microcapsules may be used in consumer products such as deodorants and antiperpirants that may, under actual use conditions, control malodor.

Layer-by-layer self-assembly of micro-capsules for the magnetic activation of semi-permeable nano-shells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prouty, Malcolm D.

2007-12-01

Layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly has demonstrated broad perspectives for encapsulating, and the controllable delivery, of drugs. The nano-scale polymer layers have the capability of material protection. Magnetic nanoparticles have great potential to be applied with LbL technology to achieve both "focusing" of the encapsulated drugs to a specific location followed by "switching" them on to release the encapsulated drugs. In this work, Phor21-betaCG(ala), dextran, and dexamethasone were used as model drugs. Encapsulation of these drugs with layer-by-layer self-assembly formed biolnano robotic capsules for controlled delivery and drug release. Silica nanoparticles coated with polyelectrolyte layers of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) or gelatin B, along with an oppositely charged peptide drug (Phor2l-betaCG(ala)), were prepared using LbL self-assembly and confirmed using QCM and zeta potential measurements. The peptide drug was assembled as a component of the multilayer walls. The release kinetics of the embedded peptide were determined. Up to 18% of the embedded Phor21-betaCG(ala) was released from the CMC multilayers over a period of 28 hours. The release was based on physiological conditions, and an external control mechanism using magnetic nanoparticles needed to be developed. Magnetic permeability control experiments were setup by applying LbL self-assembly on MnCO3 micro-cores to fabricate polyelectrolyte microcapsules embedded with superparamagnetic gold coated cobalt (Co Au) nanoparticles. An alternating magnetic field was applied to the microcapsules to check for changes in permeability. Permeability experiments were achieved by adding fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) labeled dextran to the microcapsule solution. Before an alternating magnetic field was applied, the capsules remained impermeable to the FITC-dextran; however, after an alternating magnetic field was applied for 30 minutes, approximately 99% of the capsules were filled with FITC-dextran, showing that the Co Au embedded microcapsules were indeed "switched on" using an alternating magnetic field. LbL assembly was then applied to encapsulate micronized dexamethasone with biocompatible polyelectrolytes such as protamine sulfate C, chondroitin sulfate sodium salt, and gelatin B, along with a layer of superparamagnetic nanoparticles. The biocompatible polymers were used to retain and protect the vulnerable drug. In vitro drug release kinetics were investigated according to different environmental factors such as temperature and pH. An external oscillating magnetic field was applied to "switch on" and accelerate the drug release. The results were compared to those without applying a magnetic field.

Development of probiotic-loaded microcapsules for local delivery: Physical properties, cell release and growth.

PubMed

Mirtič, Janja; Rijavec, Tomaž; Zupančič, Špela; Pobirk, Alenka Zvonar; Lapanje, Aleš; Kristl, Julijana

2018-05-24

The delivery of probiotics to different sites of action within the human body might help to prevent and treat several diseases. Here, we describe a microcapsule-based system for delivery of probiotic bacteria, as vegetative cells or spores, which promotes their prolonged survival and efficient revival, and successful colonisation of the target surface. This system is proposed for local delivery into periodontal pockets. Encapsulation of the probiotic bacteria was based on alginate crosslinking with calcium ions. This was performed by prilling the polymer dispersion supplemented with the probiotic using membrane vibration technology, followed by chitosan coating by polyelectrolyte complexation. The microcapsules were 120-150 μm in diameter, and were dried by lyophilisation. The chitosan coating increased the specific surface area and improved the bioadhesion potential, with no negative impact on viability and growth kinetics of the probiotic bacteria. Chitosan represents a barrier, which promotes sustained release of the probiotic bacteria. Vegetative bacteria were encapsulated at 2 × 10 8  CFU/g dry microcapsules, which represented ~5% of the prepared microcapsules, with stable viability for at least 2 months. Encapsulation of bacterial spores was greater, at 2 × 10 10  CFU/g dry microcapsules, achieving 100% of microcapsules with incorporated revivable spores. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

pH-controlled drug loading and release from biodegradable microcapsules

PubMed Central

Zhao, Qinghe; Li, Bingyun

2013-01-01

Microcapsules made of biopolymers are of both scientific and technological interest and have many potential applications in medicine including their use as controlled drug delivery devices. The present study employs the electrostatic interaction between polycations and polyanions to form a multilayered microcapsule shell and also to control the loading and release of charged drug molecules inside the microcapsule. Micron-sized CaCO3 particles were synthesized and integrated with chondroitin sulfate (CS) through a reaction between Na2CO3 and Ca(NO3)2 solutions suspended with CS macromolecules. Oppositely-charged biopolymers were alternately deposited onto the synthesized particles using electrostatic layer-by-layer self-assembly, and glutaraldehyde was introduced to crosslink the multilayered shell structure. Microcapsules integrated with CS inside the multilayered shells were obtained after decomposition of the CaCO3 templates. The integration of a matrix, i.e. CS, enabled the subsequent selective control of drug loading and release. The CS integrated microcapsules were loaded with a model drug, i.e. bovine serum albumin labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC-BSA), and it was shown that pH was an effective means of controlling the loading and release of FITC-BSA. Such CS integrated microcapsules may be used for controlled localized drug delivery as biodegradable devices, which have advantages in reducing systemic side effects and increasing drug efficacy. PMID:18657478

Local Anesthetic Microencapsulation.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-11-04

tollowing I.M. injection of microencapsulated lidocaine and etidocaine than following solution injections. Local toxicity of these microcapsule injections...Distribution 41 Table 12 Processing Summary of Lidocaine (Base) 43 Microencapsulation Table 13 Lidocaine (Base) Microcapsule Size 44 Distribution...Table 14 Processing Summary of Et’idocaine-HCl 45 Microencapsulation Table 15 Etidocaine-HCl Microcapsule Size 47 Distribution Table 16 Process Summary

pH-Sensitive Microparticles with Matrix-Dispersed Active Agent

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calle, Luz M. (Inventor); Jolley, Scott T. (Inventor); Buhrow, Jerry W. (Inventor); Li, Wenyan (Inventor)

2014-01-01

Methods to produce pH-sensitive microparticles that have an active agent dispersed in a polymer matrix have certain advantages over microcapsules with an active agent encapsulated in an interior compartment/core inside of a polymer wall. The current invention relates to pH-sensitive microparticles that have a corrosion-detecting or corrosion-inhibiting active agent or active agents dispersed within a polymer matrix of the microparticles. The pH-sensitive microparticles can be used in various coating compositions on metal objects for corrosion detecting and/or inhibiting.

Production of BCG alginate-PLL microcapsules by emulsification/internal gelation.

PubMed

Esquisabel, A; Hernández, R M; Igartua, M; Gascón, A R; Calvo, B; Pedraz, J L

1997-01-01

A biocompatible emulsification method for microencapsulation of live cells and enzymes within a calcium alginate matrix applied to Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) has been developed. Small-diameter alginate beads (microcapsules) were formed via internal gelation of an alginate solution emulsified within vegetable oil. Five different oils (sesame, sweet almond, perhydrosqualene, camomile and jojoba) were used. The rheological analysis of the oils showed a Newtonian behaviour, with viscosities = 30.0, 37.7, 51.2, 59.3 and 67.1 mPa.s for perhydrosqualene, jojoba, camomile, sesame and sweet almond oil respectively. The particle size of the microcapsules obtained ranged from 30.3 microns for the microcapsules prepared with sweet almond oil to 57.0 microns for those made with perhydrosqualene. The mean particle diameter obtained was found to be dependent on the viscosity of the oil employed, according to the equation: phi (micron) = 76.6-0.628 eta (mPa.s) (r2 = 0.943). The encapsulated BCG was identified by the Difco TB stain set K, followed by observation under optical microscopy. Freeze-drying of the microcapsules was carried out to ensure their stability during storage. Two batches of microcapsules (those prepared with sesame and jojoba oil) and four types of cryoprotectors (glucose, trehalose, mannitol and sorbitol), at three concentration levels (5, 10 and 20% w/v) were studied. The parameters evaluated were particle size, physical appearance, reconstitution of lyophilizates and microscopical evaluation. For both batches of microcapsules the best results were obtained with trehalose 5%, showing particle sizes of 42.1 microns in the case of the microcapsules prepared with sesame oil, and of 45.3 microns for those prepared with jojoba.

Microencapsulation of canine sperm and its preservation at 4 degrees C.

PubMed

Shah, S; Nagano, M; Yamashita, Y; Hishinuma, M

2010-03-15

The objective of this study was to develop a preservation method for canine sperm using microencapsulation. Pooled ejaculates from three beagles (Canis familiaris) were extended in egg yolk Tris extender and were encapsulated in gel (alginate only) or polycation (poly-L-lysine membrane bound) microcapsules at 0.75% and 1.0% alginate concentration. In Experiment 1, characteristics of microcapsule and microencapsulated sperm were evaluated during chilling storage for 48 h. Gel microcapsules at 0.75% alginate concentration had a teardrop-like structure with fragility, whereas those at 1.0% alginate had a solid spherical structure. In all groups, diameter of the microcapsules increased with duration of storage (P<0.05). Alginate concentration did not affect the sperm recovery rate from microcapsules. Total average recovery rate of sperm from polycation microcapsules was lower than that of gel microcapsules (P<0.05). Progressive motility of polycation microencapsulated sperm and unencapsulated sperm (control) was higher than that of the gel microencapsulated sperm, both at 0.75% and 1.0% alginate concentration (P<0.05), although viability of sperm was similar among the three groups. In Experiment 2, to evaluate the sperm longevity after chilling storage, sperm were microencapsulated in polycation microcapsules at 1.0% alginate concentration, stored at 4 degrees C for 0, 1, 4, and 7 d, and then cultured at 38.5 degrees C for 0, 6, and 24h. Progressive motility and viability of microencapsulated sperm were higher than those of unencapsulated spermatozoa at 0 to 24h of culture after 4 and 7 d of chilling storage (P<0.05). In conclusion, polycation microencapsulation at 1.0% alginate concentration can be successfully applied for chilling storage of canine sperm by maintaining motility and viability for up to 7 d. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ion release, fluoride charge of and adhesion of an orthodontic cement paste containing microcapsules.

PubMed

Burbank, Brant D; Slater, Michael; Kava, Alyssa; Doyle, James; McHale, William A; Latta, Mark A; Gross, Stephen M

2016-02-01

Dental materials capable of releasing calcium, phosphate and fluoride are of great interest for remineralization. Microencapsulated aqueous solutions of these ions in orthodontic cement demonstrate slow, sustained release by passive diffusion through a permeable membrane without the need for dissolution or etching of fillers. The potential to charge a dental material formulated with microencapsulated water with fluoride by toothbrushing with over the counter toothpaste and the effect of microcapsules on cement adhesion to enamel was determined. Orthodontic cements that contained microcapsules with water and controls without microcapsules were brushed with over-the-counter toothpaste and fluoride release was measured. Adhesion measurements were performed loading orthodontic brackets to failure. Cements that contained microencapsulated solutions of 5.0M Ca(NO3)2, 0.8M NaF, 6.0MK2HPO4 or a mixture of all three were prepared. Ion release profiles were measured as a function of time. A greater fluoride charge and re-release from toothbrushing was demonstrated compared to a control with no microcapsules. Adhesion of an orthodontic cement that contained microencapsulated remineralizing agents was 8.5±2.5MPa compared to the control without microcapsules which was of 8.3±1.7MPa. Sustained release of fluoride, calcium and phosphate ions from cement formulated with microencapsulated remineralizing agents was demonstrated. Orthodontic cements with microcapsules show a release of bioavailable fluoride, calcium, and phosphate ions near the tooth surface while having the ability to charge with fluoride and not effect the adhesion of the material to enamel. Incorporation of microcapsules in dental materials is promising for promoting remineralization. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

R-Index Measure of Microencapsulated Tributyrin in Gamma-Cyclodextrin Influenced by Drying Method.

PubMed

Donovan, Joseph D; Lee, Soo-Yeun; Lee, Youngsoo

2016-09-01

Microencapsulation is commonly used in the food industry for a variety of purposes including added ingredient functionally and taste-masking for those ingredients with negative sensory qualities. Tributyrin (TB), a source intestinally-essential butyric acid, possesses negative aroma (cheesy, fecal) and taste (bitter) qualities. This has significantly limited its use in food applications for the potential improvement of intestinal health. Utilizing spray drying and low-temperature oven drying, microcapsules containing TB were produced using whey (WPI), WPI and inulin, and gamma-cyclodextrin (GCD). To determine how microcapsule formulation and drying method affected the perception of TB relative to a control, microencapsulated and free TB were added to an infant formula system and evaluated using the rating method to determine R-index measures. Pooled R-index measures (α = 0.01, 2-tailed, and n = 170) indicated that the only microcapsule not significantly different from the control (R-index below 57.95%) was the GCD and TB oven dried (GCT OD) microcapsule. All other WPI, WPI-inulin, and GCD and TB spray-dried (GCT SD) microcapsules were all significantly different from the control. Average individual R-index results indicated that all microcapsules in infant formula, except for GCT OD, were significantly different (P < 0.01) from the control formula but not from free TB. Spray drying may create microcapsules with surface TB and disturb the GCD-TB complex, allowing free, and surface TB to be perceived by the panelists. The GCT OD microcapsule has the potential to be used for the potential oral treatment of intestinal disorders in functional food applications without the negative sensory qualities of TB. © 2016 Institute of Food Technologists®

Fabrication of triple-labeled polyelectrolyte microcapsules for localized ratiometric pH sensing.

PubMed

Song, Xiaoxue; Li, Huanbin; Tong, Weijun; Gao, Changyou

2014-02-15

Encapsulation of pH sensitive fluorophores as reporting molecules provides a powerful approach to visualize the transportation of multilayer capsules. In this study, two pH sensitive dyes (fluorescein and oregon green) and one pH insensitive dye (rhodamine B) were simultaneously labeled on the microcapsules to fabricate ratiometric pH sensors. The fluorescence of the triple-labeled microcapsule sensors was robust and nearly independent of other intracellular species. With a dynamic pH measurement range of 3.3-6.5, the microcapsules can report their localized pH at a real time. Cell culture experiments showed that the microcapsules could be internalized by RAW 246.7 cells naturally and finally accumulated in acidic organelles with a pH value of 5.08 ± 0.59 (mean ± s.d.; n=162). Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Rose bengal-grafted biodegradable microcapsules: singlet-oxygen generation and cancer-cell incapacitation.

PubMed

Wang, Xiao-Lei; Zeng, Yu; Zheng, Yan-Zhen; Chen, Jian-Feng; Tao, Xia; Wang, Ling-Xuan; Teng, Yan

2011-09-26

Rose bengal-grafted chitosan (RB-CHI), synthesized through dehydration between amino and carboxyl functional groups under mild conditions, was coated onto the outer layer of preformed biodegradable microcapsules consisting of sodium alginate and chitosan. The fabricated photosensitive microcapsules were characterized by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The assembled materials maintained intact spherical morphology and thus showed good ability to form thin films. Electron spin resonance spectroscopy allowed direct observation of the generation of singlet oxygen ((1)O(2)) from photosensitive microcapsules under light excitation at about 545 nm. Furthermore, with increasing light radiation, the content of (1)O(2) increased, as detected by a chemical probe. In vitro cellular toxicity assays showed that RB-CHI-coated photosensitive microcapsules exhibit good biocompatibility in darkness and high cytotoxicity after irradiation, and could provide new photoresponsive drug-delivery vehicles. Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Study on the effects of microencapsulated Lactobacillus delbrueckii on the mouse intestinal flora.

PubMed

Sun, Qingshen; Shi, Yue; Wang, Fuying; Han, Dequan; Lei, Hong; Zhao, Yao; Sun, Quan

2015-01-01

To evaluate the protective effects of microencapsulation on Lactobacillus delbrueckii by random, parallel experimental design. Lincomycin hydrochloride-induced intestinal malfunction mouse model was successfully established; then the L. delbrueckii microcapsule was given to the mouse. The clinical behaviour, number of intestinal flora, mucous IgA content in small intestine, IgG and IL-2 level in peripheral blood were monitored. The histological sections were also prepared. The L. delbrueckii microcapsule could have more probiotic effects as indicated by higher bifidobacterium number in cecal contents. The sIgA content in microcapsule treated group was significantly higher than that in non-encapsulated L. delbrueckii treated group (p < 0.05). Intestine pathological damage of the L. delbrueckii microcapsule-treated group showed obvious restoration. The L. delbrueckii microcapsules could relieve the intestinal tissue pathological damage and play an important role in curing antibiotic-induced intestinal flora dysfunction.

Adhesion of perfume-filled microcapsules to model fabric surfaces.

PubMed

He, Yanping; Bowen, James; Andrews, James W; Liu, Min; Smets, Johan; Zhang, Zhibing

2014-01-01

The retention and adhesion of melamine formaldehyde (MF) microcapsules on a model fabric surface in aqueous solution were investigated using a customised flow chamber technique and atomic force microscopy (AFM). A cellulose film was employed as a model fabric surface. Modification of the cellulose with chitosan was found to increase the retention and adhesion of microcapsules on the model fabric surface. The AFM force-displacement data reveal that bridging forces resulting from the extension of cellulose chains dominate the adhesion between the microcapsule and the unmodified cellulose film, whereas electrostatic attraction helps the microcapsules adhere to the chitosan-modified cellulose film. The correlation between results obtained using these two complementary techniques suggests that the flow chamber device can be potentially used for rapid screening of the effect of chemical modification on the adhesion of microparticles to surfaces, reducing the time required to achieve an optimal formulation.

Controlled Release of Nor-β-lapachone by PLGA Microparticles: A Strategy for Improving Cytotoxicity against Prostate Cancer Cells.

PubMed

Costa, Marcilia P; Feitosa, Anderson C S; Oliveira, Fátima C E; Cavalcanti, Bruno C; da Silva, Eufrânio N; Dias, Gleiston G; Sales, Francisco A M; Sousa, Bruno L; Barroso-Neto, Ito L; Pessoa, Cláudia; Caetano, Ewerton W S; Di Fiore, Stefano; Fischer, Rainer; Ladeira, Luiz O; Freire, Valder N

2016-07-02

Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors in males and it has become a major worldwide public health problem. This study characterizes the encapsulation of Nor-β-lapachone (NβL) in poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microcapsules and evaluates the cytotoxicity of the resulting drug-loaded system against metastatic prostate cancer cells. The microcapsules presented appropriate morphological features and the presence of drug molecules in the microcapsules was confirmed by different methods. Spherical microcapsules with a size range of 1.03 ± 0.46 μm were produced with an encapsulation efficiency of approximately 19%. Classical molecular dynamics calculations provided an estimate of the typical adsorption energies of NβL on PLGA. Finally, the cytotoxic activity of NβL against PC3M human prostate cancer cells was demonstrated to be significantly enhanced when delivered by PLGA microcapsules in comparison with the free drug.

Encapsulation of basic fibroblast growth factor by polyelectrolyte multilayer microcapsules and its controlled release for enhancing cell proliferation.

PubMed

She, Zhen; Wang, Chunxia; Li, Jun; Sukhorukov, Gleb B; Antipina, Maria N

2012-07-09

Basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF2) is an important protein for cellular activity and highly vulnerable to environmental conditions. FGF2 protected by heparin and bovine serum albumin was loaded into the microcapsules by a coprecipitation-based layer-by-layer encapsulation method. Low cytotoxic and biodegradable polyelectrolytes dextran sulfate and poly-L-arginine were used for capsule shell assembly. The shell thickness-dependent encapsulation efficiency was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A maximum encapsulation efficiency of 42% could be achieved by microcapsules with a shell thickness of 14 layers. The effects of microcapsule concentration and shell thickness on cytotoxicity, FGF2 release kinetics, and L929 cell proliferation were evaluated in vitro. The advantage of using microcapsules as the carrier for FGF2 controlled release for enhancing L929 cell proliferation was analyzed.

[Inclusion of proteins into polyelectrolyte microcapsules by coprecipitation and adsorption].

PubMed

Kochetkova, O Iu; Kazakova, L I; Moshkov, D A; Vinokurov, M G; Shabarchina, L I

2013-01-01

In present study microcapsules composed of synthetic (PSS and PAA) and biodegradable (DS and PAr) polyelectrolytes on calcium carbonate microparticles were obtained. The ultrastructural organization of biodegradable microcapsules was studied using transmission electron microscopy. The envelope of such capsules consisting of six polyelectrolyte layers is already well-formed, having the average thickness of 44 ± 3.0 nm, and their internal polyelectrolyte matrix is sparser compared to the synthetic microcapsules. Spectroscopy was employed to evaluate the efficiency of incorporation of FITC-labeled BSA into synthetic microcapsules by adsorption, depending on the number of polyelectrolyte layers. It was shown that the maximal amount of protein incorporated into the capsules with 6 or 7 polyelectrolyte layers (4 and 2 pg/capsule, correspondingly). As a result we conclude that, in comparison with co-precipitation, the use of adsorption allows to completely avoid the loss of protein upon encapsulation.

Kinetics and Mechanisms of Chemical and Biological Agents Release from Biopolymeric Microcapsules.

PubMed

Vinceković, Marko; Jurić, Slaven; Đermić, Edyta; Topolovec-Pintarić, Snježana

2017-11-08

Kinetics and mechanisms of copper cations and Trichoderma viride spores release from uncoated and chitosan coated alginate microcapsules were investigated. The gelation of a fixed amount of sodium alginate at different concentrations of copper ion solutions resulted in distinct kinetics and release mechanisms. The increase in copper cation concentration promoted, but the presence of the chitosan layer on the microcapsule surface and the increase in microcapsule size reduced the rate of active agent release. Fitting to simple Korsmeyer-Peppas empirical model revealed that the underlying release mechanism (Fickian diffusion or a combination of the diffusion and erosion mechanisms) depends on the copper cation concentration and presence of T. viride spores. The investigation pointed out that the proper selection of formulation variables helps in designing microcapsules with the desirable release of copper ions and T. viride for plant protection and nutrition.

ENCAPSULATED AEROSOLS

DTIC Science & Technology

materials determine the range of applicability of each method. A useful microencapsulation method, based on coagulation by inertial force was developed...The generation apparatus, consisting of two aerosol generators in series, was utilized to produce many kinds of microcapsules . A fluid energy mill...was found useful for the production of some microcapsules . The permeability of microcapsule films and the effect of exposure time and humidity were

Shelf-Stable Adhesive for Reduction of Composite Repair Hazardous Waste

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-09-01

1. Our microencapsulation approach is compatible with commonly used epoxy resins and catalyst accelerants 2. The microcapsules can be...thermally stable barrier to diffusion of accelerant and/or epoxy resin through the capsule’s walls [14]. 3.2 Microencapsulation Microcapsules ... microencapsulation of the catalyst accelerant. Thermal analysis of microcapsules made from carrageenan blends showed that they formed an effective

Polyamide microcapsules containing jojoba oil prepared by inter-facial polymerization.

PubMed

Persico, P; Carfagna, C; Danicher, L; Frere, Y

2005-08-01

Jojoba oil containing polyamide microcapsules having diameter of approximately 5 microm were prepared by inter-facial polycondensation by direct method (oil-in-water). Qualitative effects of both the formulation and the process parameters on microcapsules characteristics were investigated by SEM observations. Morphological analysis showed the dependence of the external membrane compactness on the chemical nature of the water-soluble polyamine and the oil-soluble acid polychloride: 1,6-hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) and terephthaloyl dichloride (TDC) were found to favour the production of smooth and dense surfaces. The use of ultrasonic irradiations during the dispersion step to get a further reduction of microcapsules size was also evaluated.

Microencapsulated Bioactive Agents and Method of Making

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R. (Inventor); Mosier, Benjamin (Inventor)

2003-01-01

The invention is directed to microcapsules encapsulating an aqueous solution of a protein, drug or other bioactive substance inside a semi-permeable membrane. The microcapsules are formed by interfacial coacervation where shear forces are limited to 0-100 dynes per square centimeter. The resulting uniform microcapsules can then be subjected to dewatering in order to cause the internal solution to become supersaturated with the dissolved substance. This dewatering allows controlled nucleation and crystallization of the dissolved substance. The crystal-filled microcapsules can be stored, keeping the encapsulated crystals in good condition for further direct use in x-ray crystallography or as injectable formulations of the dissolved drug, protein or other bioactive substance.

IL-1RA gene-transfected bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells in APA microcapsules could alleviate rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Hu, Jianhua; Li, Hongjian; Chi, Guanhao; Yang, Zhao; Zhao, Yi; Liu, Wei; Zhang, Chao

2015-01-01

In order to investigate the encapsulation of interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-RA) gene-modified mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in alginate-poly-L-lysine (APA) microcapsules for the persistent delivery of interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-RA) to treat Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We transfect mesenchymal stem cells with IL-RA gene, and quantify the IL-RA proteins released from the encapsulated cells followed by microencapsulation of recombinant mesenchymal stem cells, and thus observe the permeability of APA microcapsules and evaluate clinical effects after induction and treatment of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). The concentration of IL-RA in the supernatant was determined by IL-RA ELISA kit by run in technical triplicates using samples from three separate mice. Encapsulated IL-RA gene-transfected cells were capable of constitutive delivery of IL-RA proteins for at least 30 days. Moreover, the APA microcapsules could inhibit the permeation of fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjuncted immunoglobulin G. Also, it has been found that the APA microcapsules can significantly attenuate collagen induced arthritis after delivering of APA microcapsules to rats. Our results demonstrated that the nonautologous IL-RA gene-transfected stem cells are of potential utility for RA therapy.

Method for determining the three-dimensional structure of a protein

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morrison, Dennis R. (Inventor); Mosier, Benjamin (Inventor)

2004-01-01

Microcapsules prepared by encapsulating an aqueous solution of a protein, drug or other bioactive substance inside a semi-permeable membrane by are disclosed. The microcapsules are formed by interfacial coacervation under conditions where the shear forces are limited to 0-100 dynes/cm.sup.2 at the interface. By placing the microcapsules in a high osmotic dewatering solution, the protein solution is gradually made saturated and then supersaturated, and the controlled nucleation and crystallization of the protein is achieved. The crystal-filled microcapsules prepared by this method can be conveniently harvested and stored while keeping the encapsulated crystals in essentially pristine condition due to the rugged, protective membrane. Because the membrane components themselves are x-ray transparent, large crystal-containing microcapsules can be individually selected, mounted in x-ray capillary tubes and subjected to high energy x-ray diffraction studies to determine the 3-D structure of the protein molecules. Certain embodiments of the microcapsules of the invention have composite polymeric outer membranes which are somewhat elastic, water insoluble, permeable only to water, salts, and low molecular weight molecules and are structurally stable in fluid shear forces typically encountered in the human vascular system.

Aluminum carboxymethyl cellulose-rice bran microcapsules: enhancing survival of Lactobacillus reuteri KUB-AC5.

PubMed

Chitprasert, Pakamon; Sudsai, Polin; Rodklongtan, Akkaratch

2012-09-01

This research aimed to enhance the survival of Lactobacillus reuteri KUB-AC5 from heat conditioning by using microencapsulation with aluminum carboxymethyl cellulose-rice bran (AlCMC-RB) composites of different weight ratios of 1:0, 1:1, and 1:1.5. The cell/polymer suspension was crosslinked with aluminum chloride at different agitation speeds of 1200, 1500, and 2100 rpm. The AlCMC microcapsules had significantly higher encapsulation efficiency, but lower microcapsule yield than the AlCMC-RB microcapsules (p≤0.05). Scanning electron microscopy revealed the complexation between AlCMC and RB. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed hydrogen bondings between AlCMC, RB, and cells. The AlCMC-RB microcapsules had significantly lower aluminum ion and moisture contents than the AlCMC ones. After heat exposure, the viability of non-encapsulated and microencapsulated cells in the AlCMC matrix dramatically declined, while that of microencapsulated cells in the AlCMC-RB matrix was about 8 log CFU/g. The results showed the promising potential of the AlCMC-RB composite microcapsules for the protection of probiotics against heat. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effect of cinnamon bark (Cinnamomum burmanii) essential oil microcapsules on vacuumed ground beef quality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brilliana, I. N.; Manuhara, G. J.; Utami, R.; Khasanah, L. U.

2017-04-01

Ground beef has a short shelf life because it is susceptible to damage due to microbial contamination and lipid oxidation. So some sort of preservation method such as refrigerated storage, vacuum packaging or natural preservative addition is needed to extend the shelf life of ground beef. A natural preservative that can be used as a food preservative is the cinnamon bark (Cinnamomum burmanii) essential oil microcapsules. The aim of the research was to determine the influence of a cinnamon bark essential oil microcapsules (0%;0.5% and 1% w/w of the ground beef) on the Total Plate Count (TPC), Thiobarbituric Acid (TBA), pH and color of ground beef during refrigerated storage (4±1°C). The result showed that cinnamon bark essential oil microcapsules affected the TPC, TBA, pH and color of ground beef. The addition of the cinnamon bark essential oil microcapsules on ground beef can inhibit microbial growth, inhibit lipid oxidation, inhibit discoloration and lowering pH of fresh ground beef during refrigerated storage compared to the control sample. The higher of the microcapsules were added, the higher the inhibition of microbial growth, lipid oxidation and discoloration of ground beef, indicating better preservation effects.

Cry8Ca2-containing layer-by-layer microcapsules for the pH-controlled release of crystal protein.

PubMed

Li, Feng; Yan, Yue; Wang, Dandan; Zhang, Jie; Guo, Shuyuan

2014-01-01

To extend the activity of crystal proteins by protection from environmental stress, we developed a new type of microcapsule containing Cry8Ca2 protoxins. Layer-by-layer (LbL) microcapsules containing Cry8Ca2 were successfully prepared for the first time by the alternate deposition of poly(acrylic acid) (PAH) and Cry8Ca2 at pH 6 on the surface of poly(styrene sulphonate) (PSS)-doped CaCO3 microbeads. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) photos showed that microparticles were spherical in shape, approximately 2 μm in diameter. After removing the templates, the loading results were observed with a confocal laser scattering microscope (CLSM) by using fluorescein-labelled Cry8Ca2. The Cry8Ca2 protoxins were released from the microcapsules when they were exposed to a pH higher than 6 due to the loss of the electrostatic attraction. The microcapsules displayed resistance to proteinase K. Bioassay result demonstrated that the microcapsules with Cry8Ca2 displayed approximately equivalent insecticidal activity to the larvae of Anomala corpulenta compared to the free Cry8Ca2.

Encapsulated eucalyptus oil in ionically cross-linked alginate microcapsules and its controlled release.

PubMed

Noppakundilograt, Supaporn; Piboon, Phianghathai; Graisuwan, Wilaiporn; Nuisin, Roongkan; Kiatkamjornwong, Suda

2015-10-20

Sodium alginate microcapsules containing eucalyptus oil were prepared by oil-in-water emulsification via Shirasu porous glass (SPG) membrane and cross-linked by calcium chloride (CaCl2). SPG membrane pore size of 5.2μm was used to control the size of eucalyptus oil microdroplets. Effects of sodium alginate, having a mannuronic acid/guluronic acid (M/G) ratio of 1.13, eucalyptus oil and CaCl2 amounts on microdroplet sizes and size distribution were elucidated. Increasing sodium alginate amounts from 0.1 to 0.5% (wv(-1)) sodium alginate, the average droplets size increased from 42.2±2.0 to 48.5±0.6μm, with CVs of 16.5±2.2 and 30.2±4.5%, respectively. CaCl2 successfully gave narrower size distribution of cross-linked eucalyptus oil microcapsules. The optimum conditions for preparing the microcapsules, oil loading efficiency, and controlled release of the encapsulated eucalyptus oil from the microcapsules as a function of time at 40°C were investigated. Release model for the oil from microcapsules fitted Ritger-Peppas model with non-Fickian transport mechanism. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Raman Spectroscopy of Poly-Urea Formaldehyde Microcapsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Espino, Omar; Chipara, Dorina; Chipara, Mircea; Martinez, Melissa

2015-03-01

The objective of this research project was to add self-healing capabilities to polymeric nanocomposites. We used the ``classical'' method to obtain self-healing polymers with the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles in the self-healing system. Self-healing polymers are obtained by dispersion of first generation Grubbs catalysts and microcapsules filled with monomers (typically DCPD). These kind of ``smart materials'' are able to survive to high mechanical stress via the ignition of the so called ``autonomous self-healing mechanism'' which is actually a ring opening methatesis polymerization (ROMP) reaction triggered by mechanical stresses in excess over a threshold limit through the rupture of microcapsules and the release of the monomeric content. As a preliminary step for adding self-healing capabilities in nanocomposites, the synthesis of microcapsules filled with dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) is vital for the addition of self-healing capabilities to polymeric matrices. We synthesized polyurea-formaldehyde (PUF) microcapsules filled with monomer (DCPD) using the in-situ polymerization. The synthesis was monitored by Raman spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and pH measurements that has been extensively used as a non-invasive techniques in the characterization of polymers and monitoring of organic reactions. The goal of this research was to assess the formation of the microcapsules during synthesis and the presence of the DCPD in the microcapsules. Samples were taken during the synthesis every 30 minutes and analyzed by Raman spectroscopy, and optical microscopy keeping a control over the pH of the solution.

Innovative Microcapsules for Pancreatic β-Cells Harvested from Mature Double-Transgenic Mice: Cell Imaging, Viability, Induced Glucose-Stimulated Insulin Measurements and Proinflammatory Cytokines Analysis.

PubMed

Mooranian, Armin; Tackechi, Ryu; Jamieson, Emma; Morahan, Grant; Al-Salami, Hani

2017-06-01

Recently we demonstrated that microencapsulation of a murine pancreatic β-cell line using an alginate-ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) matrix produced microcapsules with good stability and cell viability. In this study, we investigated if translation of this formulation to microencapsulation of primary β-cells harvested from mature double-transgenic healthy mice would also generate stable microcapsules with good cell viability. Islets of Langerhans were isolated from Ngn3-GFP/RIP-DsRED mice by intraductal collagenase P digestion and density gradient centrifugation, dissociated into single cells and the β-cell population purified by Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting. β-cells were microencapsulated using either alginate-poly-l-ornithine (F1; control) or alginate-poly-l-ornithine-UDCA (F2; test) formulations. Microcapsules were microscopically examined and microencapsulated cells were analyzed for viability, insulin and cytokine release, 2 days post-microencapsulation. Microcapsules showed good uniformity and morphological characteristics and even cell distribution within microcapsules with or without UDCA. Two days post microencapsulation cell viability, mitochondrial ATP and insulin production were shown to be optimized in the presence of UDCA whilst production of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β was reduced. Contradictory to our previous studies, UDCA did not reduce production of any other pro-inflammatory biomarkers. These results suggest that UDCA incorporation improves microcapsules' physical and morphological characteristics and improves the viability and function of encapsulated mature primary pancreatic β-cells.

[Preparation of polyelectrolyte microcapsules containing ferrosoferric oxide nanoparticles].

PubMed

Liu, Xiao-Qing; Zheng, Chun-Li; Zhu, Jia-Bi

2011-01-01

In this study, polyelectrolyte microcapsules have been fabricated by biocompatible ferrosoferric oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) and poly allyamine hydrochloride (PAH) using layer by layer assembly technique. The Fe3O4 NPs were prepared by chemical co-precipitation, and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and infrared spectrum (IR). Quartz cell also was used as a substrate for building multilayer films to evaluate the capability of forming planar film. The result showed that Fe3O4 NPs were selectively deposited on the surface of quartz cell. Microcapsules containing Fe3O4 NPs were fabricated by Fe3O4 NPs and PAH alternately self-assembly on calcium carbonate microparticles firstly, then 0.2 molL(-1) EDTA was used to remove the calcium carbonate. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Zetasizer and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) were used to characterize the microcapsule's morphology, size and magnetic properties. The result revealed that Fe3O4 NPs and PAH were successfully deposited on the surface of CaCO3 microparticles, the microcapsule manifested superparamagnetism, size and saturation magnetization were 4.9 +/- 1.2 microm and 8.94 emu x g(-1), respectively. As a model drug, Rhodamin B isothiocyanate labeled bovine serum albumin (RBITC-BSA) was encapsulated in microcapsule depended on pH sensitive of the microcapsule film. When pH 5.0, drug add in was 2 mg, the encapsulation efficiency was (86.08 +/- 3.36) % and the drug loading was 8.01 +/- 0.30 mg x m(L-1).

A biodegradable, immunoprotective, dual nanoporous capsule for cell-based therapies.

PubMed

Zhang, Xulang; He, Hongyan; Yen, Chi; Ho, Wiston; Lee, L James

2008-11-01

To demonstrate the transplantation of drug-secreting cells with immunoprotection, a biodegradable delivery device combining two nanoporous capsules is developed using secretory alkaline phosphatase gene (SEAP) transfected mouse embryonic stem (mES) cells as a model system. The outer capsule is a poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG)-coated poly (epsilon-caprolactone) (PCL) chamber covered with a PEG grafted PCL nanoporous membrane made by phase inversion technique. SEAP gene transfected mES cells encapsulated in alginate-poly-L-lysine (AP) microcapsules are placed in the PCL capsule. Both nanoporous capsules showed good immunoprotection in the IgG solution. In microcapsules, mES cells could form a spheroid embryonic body (EB) and grow close to the microcapsule size. The secreted SEAP from encapsulated mES cells increased gradually to a maximum value before reaching a steady level, following the cell growth pattern in the microcapsule. Without microcapsules, mES cells only formed a monolayer in the large PCL capsule. The secreted SEAP release was very low. The integrated device showed a similar cell growth pattern to that in microcapsules alone, while the SEAP release rate could be regulated by the pore size of the large capsule. This integrated device can achieve multi-functionalities for cell-based therapy, i.e. a 3-D microenvironment provided by microcapsules for cell growth, superior immunoprotection and controllable release performance provided by the two nanoporous membranes, and good fibrosis prevention by PEG surface modification of the large capsule.

Electrically switchable polymer liquid crystal and polymer birefringent flake in fluid host systems and optical devices utilizing same

DOEpatents

Marshall, Kenneth L.; Kosc, Tanya Z.; Jacobs, Stephen D.; Faris, Sadeg M.; Li, Le

2003-12-16

Flakes or platelets of polymer liquid crystals (PLC) or other birefringent polymers (BP) suspended in a fluid host medium constitute a system that can function as the active element in an electrically switchable optical device when the suspension is either contained between a pair of rigid substrates bearing transparent conductive coatings or dispersed as microcapsules within the body of a flexible host polymer. Optical properties of these flake materials include large effective optical path length, different polarization states and high angular sensitivity in their selective reflection or birefringence. The flakes or platelets of these devices need only a 3-20.degree. rotation about the normal to the cell surface to achieve switching characteristics obtainable with prior devices using particle rotation or translation.

Magnetic and Mössbauer spectroscopy studies of hollow microcapsules made of silica-coated CoFe2O4 nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lyubutin, I. S.; Gervits, N. E.; Starchikov, S. S.; Lin, Chun-Rong; Tseng, Yaw-Teng; Shih, Kun-Yauh; Wang, Cheng-Chien; Chen, I.-Han; Ogarkova, Yu L.; Korotkov, N. Yu

2016-01-01

The hollow microcapsules made of silica-coated CoFe2O4 nanoparticles were synthesized using chemical co-precipitation, followed by the sol-gel method. Poly(MMA-co-MAA) microspheres were used as a core template which can be completely removed after annealing at 450 °C. The microcapsules are monodisperse with the outer diameter of about 450 nm and the thickness of the shell is about 50 nm. The nanoparticles of Co-ferrite are single crystalline. The size of the nanoparticles and magnetic properties of CoFe2O4/SiO2 hollow spheres can be tuned with high accuracy at the annealing stage. The Mössbauer data indicate that CoFe2O4 ferrite is an inverse spinel, in which Fe3+ and Co2+ ions are distributed in both octahedral and tetrahedral sites with the inversion degree close to the bulk ferrite value. At low temperature the CoFe2O4/SiO2 nanoparticles are in antiferromagnetic (AFM) state due to the canted or triangular magnetic structure. Under heating in the applied field, AFM structure transforms to the ferrimagnetic (FM) structure, that increases the magnetization. The Mössbauer data revealed that the small size CoFe2O4/SiO2 particles do not show superparamagnetic behavior, but they transit to the paramagnetic state by the jump-like first order magnetic transition (JMT). This effect is a specific property of the magnetic nanoparticles isolated by inert material. The suggested method of synthesis can be modified with various bio-ligands on the silane surface, and such materials can find many applications in diagnostics and bio-separation.

Preserving catalytic activity and enhancing biochemical stability of the therapeutic enzyme asparaginase by biocompatible multilayered polyelectrolyte microcapsules.

PubMed

Karamitros, Christos S; Yashchenok, Alexey M; Möhwald, Helmuth; Skirtach, Andre G; Konrad, Manfred

2013-12-09

The present study focuses on the formation of microcapsules containing catalytically active L-asparaginase (L-ASNase), a protein drug of high value in antileukemic therapy. We make use of the layer-by-layer (LbL) technique to coat protein-loaded calcium carbonate (CaCO3) particles with two or three poly dextran/poly-L-arginine-based bilayers. To achieve high loading efficiency, the CaCO3 template was generated by coprecipitation with the enzyme. After assembly of the polymer shell, the CaCO3 core material was dissolved under mild conditions by dialysis against 20 mM EDTA. Biochemical stability of the encapsulated L-asparaginase was analyzed by treating the capsules with the proteases trypsin and thrombin, which are known to degrade and inactivate the enzyme during leukemia treatment, allowing us to test for resistance against proteolysis by physiologically relevant proteases through measurement of residual l-asparaginase activities. In addition, the thermal stability, the stability at the physiological temperature, and the long-term storage stability of the encapsulated enzyme were investigated. We show that encapsulation of l-asparaginase remarkably improves both proteolytic resistance and thermal inactivation at 37 °C, which could considerably prolong the enzyme's in vivo half-life during application in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Importantly, the use of low EDTA concentrations for the dissolution of CaCO3 by dialysis could be a general approach in cases where the activity of sensitive biomacromolecules is inhibited, or even irreversibly damaged, when standard protocols for fabrication of such LbL microcapsules are used. Encapsulated and free enzyme showed similar efficacies in driving leukemic cells to apoptosis.

Preparation of thermally stable microcapsules with a chitosan-silica hybrid.

PubMed

Kang, Hong-Yi; Chen, Hui-Huang

2014-09-01

Addition of microcapsules with a high dielectric constant and low specific heat capacity to a battered layer was designed to create a higher temperature in the crust than in the prefried fish nuggets to prevent the water vapor in the fish nuggets from migrating to the crust during microwave heating. Therefore, chitosan-silica hybrids and soybean oil were utilized to prepare the shell and core of the thermally stable microcapsules (MC(CS)), respectively. The MC(CS) were prepared by sol-gel coacervation from an oil-in-water emulsion. The sodium silicate was hydrolyzed and coacervated through polymerization for 24 h at pH 5. The zeta potential analysis indicated that chitosan with a positive charge and silica with a negative charge interacted through electrostatic attraction to form a hybrid shell. The volume mean particle size and encapsulation efficiency of the MC(CS) were 9.6 ± 0.2 μm and 75.6% ± 1.3%, respectively, when oil/chitosan = 0.2 and chitosan/silica = 0.5 (w/w). In addition to H-bonding and electrostatic attraction, Si-O-N bonds were formed between chitosan and silica. Dehydration of the bound water in the MC(CS) was observed in the range of 25 to 250 °C in the differential scanning calorimetry thermal analysis, with the lack of apparent thermal peaks indicating its high thermal stability. The decrease of force to cut the crust observed by texture analysis as well as the increase of hedonic score by consumer acceptance test revealed the addition of 1% MC(CS) significantly improved the crispness of the crust in the microwave-reheated nuggets. © 2014 Institute of Food Technologists®

Development of Functional Thin Polymer Films Using a Layer-by-Layer Deposition Technique.

PubMed

Yoshida, Kentaro

2017-01-01

Functional thin films containing insulin were prepared using layer-by-layer (LbL) deposition of insulin and negatively- or positively-charged polymers on the surface of solid substrates. LbL films composed of insulin and negatively-charged polymers such as poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), poly(vinylsulfate) (PVS), and dextran sulfate (DS) were prepared through electrostatic affinity between the materials. The insulin/PAA, insulin/PVS, and insulin/DS films were stable in acidic solutions, whereas they decomposed under physiological conditions as a result of a change in the net electric charge of insulin from positive to negative. Interestingly, the insulin-containing LbL films were stable even in the presence of a digestive-enzyme (pepcin) at pH 1.4 (stomach pH). In contrast, LbL films consisting of insulin and positively-charged polymers such as poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) decomposed in acidic solutions due to the positive charges of insulin generated in acidic media. The insulin-containing LbL films can be prepared not only on the surface of flat substrates, such as quartz slides, but also on the surface of microparticles, such as poly(lactic acid) (PLA) microbeads. Thus, insulin-containing LbL film-coated PLA microbeads can be handled as a powder. In addition, insulin-containing microcapsules were prepared by coating LbL films on the surface of insulin-doped calcium carbonate (CaCO 3 ) microparticles, followed by dissolution of the CaCO 3 core. The release of insulin from the microcapsules was accelerated at pH 7.4, whereas it was suppressed in acidic solutions. These results suggest the potential use of insulin-containing microcapsules in the development of oral formulations of insulin.

Smart Coating for Corrosion Indication and Prevention: Recent Progress

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Wenyan; Hintze, Paul; Calle, Luz M.; Buhrow, Jerry; Curran, Jerry; Muehlberg, A. J.; Gelling, V. J.; Webster, D. C.; Croll, S. G.; Contu, F.;

Encapsulated Decon for Use on Medical Patients

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-12-01

Development of effective decon microcapsules was based on a series of tasks performed on this study. The preliminary tasks included a litera- ture search...culminated with evaluating selected microcapsules on pig skin samples, with HD, GB, arid GD. Results appear encouraging. The best capsule performance...term contact. in addition, a brief study showed magnetite can be incorporated into the capsule wall to provide magnetic microcapsules that can be

Using Theory and Simulation to Design Self-Healing Surfaces

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-11-16

blends, microcapsules Anna C. Balazs University of Pittsburgh Office of Sponsored Programs 3700 O’Hara St Pittsburgh, PA 15260 - REPORT DOCUMENTATION PAGE...novel computational approach (P5) to simulate the rolling motion of fluid-driven, particle-filled microcapsules along heterogeneous, adhesive substrates...established guidelines for designing particle-filled microcapsules that perform a “repair and go” function and could ultimately be used to restore

Polyfibroblast: A Self-Healing and Galvanic Protection Additive

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-07-25

3 Key Accomplishments 3.1 Silane Formulation Processability Silane coupling agents may be added to the existing microcapsules either in low...constrained by the need to form stable microcapsules . To this end, we explored a number of recipes in which the following silane coupling agents were...Isocyanatopropyltrimethoxy silane (ITS). • Glycidoxypropyltrimethoxy silane (GPS) As expected, the lowest concentrations most readily formed stable microcapsules . The

Polyfibroblast: A Self-Healing and Galvanic Protection Additive

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-12

self-healing and galvanic protection capacity to the primer (Figure 1). Polyfibroblast consists of paint-filled microcapsules and zinc powder. It has...significant added cost. Microcapsule Figure 1. Polyfibroblast contains fresh paint encapsulated in polymer shells plus Zn powder. When scratched, resin...from the broken microcapsules fills the crack to form a polymer scar. Zn powder supplies galvanic protection in the event of incomplete healing

Delivery of Vaccines By Biodegradable Polymeric Microcapsules with Bioadherence Properties. Phase 1.

DTIC Science & Technology

1995-10-01

DAMD17-95-C-5061 TITLE: Delivery of Vaccines by Biodegradable Polymeric Microcapsules with Bioadherence Properties PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Robert L...SUBTITLE 5. FUNDING NUMBERS Delivery of Vaccines By Biodegradable Polymeric Microcapsules with Bioadherence Properties DAMD17-95-C-5061 6. AUTHOR(S...SUBJECT TERMS 15. NUMBER OF PAGES Polymer microspheres 27 Microencapsulated vaccines 16. PRICE CODE 17. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION 18. SECURITY

Molecular Assembly of Polysaccharide-Based Microcapsules and Their Biomedical Applications.

PubMed

Feng, Xiyun; Du, Cuiling; Li, Junbai

2016-08-01

Advanced multifunctional microcapsules have revealed great potential in biomedical applications owing to their tunable size, shape, surface properties, and stimuli responsiveness. Polysaccharides are one of the most acceptable biomaterials for biomedical applications because of their outstanding virtues such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low toxicity. Many efforts have been devoted to investigating novel molecular design and efficient building blocks for polysaccharide-based microcapsules. In this Personal Account, we first summarize the common features of polysaccharides and the main principles of the design and fabrication of polysaccharide-based microcapsules, and further discuss their applications in biomedical areas and perspectives for future research. © 2016 The Chemical Society of Japan & Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Microcapsule-Type Self-Healing Protective Coating for Cementitious Composites with Secondary Crack Preventing Ability.

PubMed

Kim, Dong-Min; Yu, Hwan-Chul; Yang, Hye-In; Cho, Yu-Jin; Lee, Kwang-Myong; Chung, Chan-Moon

2017-01-26

A microcapsule-type self-healing protective coating with secondary crack preventing capability has been developed using a silanol-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (STP)/dibutyltin dilaurate (DD) healing agent. STP undergoes condensation reaction in the presence of DD to give a viscoelastic substance. STP- and DD-containing microcapsules were prepared by in-situ polymerization and interfacial polymerization methods, respectively. The microcapsules were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The microcapsules were integrated into commercial enamel paint or epoxy coating formulations, which were applied on silicon wafers, steel panels, and mortar specimens to make dual-capsule self-healing protective coatings. When the STP/DD-based coating was scratched, self-healing of the damaged region occurred, which was demonstrated by SEM, electrochemical test, and water permeability test. It was also confirmed that secondary crack did not occur in the healed region upon application of vigorous vibration to the self-healing coating.

On spray drying of oxidized corn starch cross-linked gelatin microcapsules for drug release.

PubMed

Dang, Xugang; Yang, Mao; Shan, Zhihua; Mansouri, Shahnaz; May, Bee K; Chen, Xiaodong; Chen, Hui; Woo, Meng Wai

2017-05-01

Spray-dried gelatin/oxidized corn starch (G/OCS) microcapsules were produced for drug release application. The prepared microcapsules were characterized through a scanning electron microscope (SEM) picture and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The swelling characteristics of the G/OCS microcapsules and release properties of vitamin C were then investigated. The results from structural analysis indicated that the presence of miscibility and compatibility between oxidized corn starch and gelatin, and exhibits high thermal stability up to 326°C. The swelling of G/OCS microcapsules increased with increasing pH and reduced with decreasing ionic strength, attributed to the cross-linking between gelatin and oxidized corn starch, ionization of functional groups. Vitamin C release characteristic revealed controlled release behavior in the first 3h of contact with an aqueous medium. This release behavior was independent of the swelling behavior indicating the potential of the encapsulating matrix to produce controlled release across a spectrum of pH environment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Microcapsule-Type Self-Healing Protective Coating for Cementitious Composites with Secondary Crack Preventing Ability

PubMed Central

Kim, Dong-Min; Yu, Hwan-Chul; Yang, Hye-In; Cho, Yu-Jin; Lee, Kwang-Myong; Chung, Chan-Moon

2017-01-01

A microcapsule-type self-healing protective coating with secondary crack preventing capability has been developed using a silanol-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (STP)/dibutyltin dilaurate (DD) healing agent. STP undergoes condensation reaction in the presence of DD to give a viscoelastic substance. STP- and DD-containing microcapsules were prepared by in-situ polymerization and interfacial polymerization methods, respectively. The microcapsules were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The microcapsules were integrated into commercial enamel paint or epoxy coating formulations, which were applied on silicon wafers, steel panels, and mortar specimens to make dual-capsule self-healing protective coatings. When the STP/DD-based coating was scratched, self-healing of the damaged region occurred, which was demonstrated by SEM, electrochemical test, and water permeability test. It was also confirmed that secondary crack did not occur in the healed region upon application of vigorous vibration to the self-healing coating. PMID:28772475

Self-Healing Wire Insulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parrish, Clyde F. (Inventor)

2012-01-01

A self-healing system for an insulation material initiates a self-repair process by rupturing a plurality of microcapsules disposed on the insulation material. When the plurality of microcapsules are ruptured, reactants within the plurality of microcapsules react to form a replacement polymer in a break of the insulation material. This self-healing system has the ability to repair multiple breaks in a length of insulation material without exhausting the repair properties of the material.

Flexible Display Technologies...Do They Have a Role in the Cockpit?

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-03-01

can be updated as needed via wireless technology. The main element of Radio PaperTM is an electronic ink, consisting of millions of microcapsules ...creating black text and images against an otherwise white (negatively charged) background. The microcapsules can retain their charge (and hence the image...for as long as months without additional power. Figure 3. Example of eltrophoretic display (Source: E-Ink Corporation). The microcapsules are

Polyfibroblast: A Self-Healing and Galvanic Protection Additive

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-07-25

OBIECTIVES 1 KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS 3.1 ON SITE INSPECTION OF COATING HEALTH 2 3.2 MICROCAPSULE SHEAR STRENGTH 4 3.3 NEXT STEPS 5 1 Summary Initial...experiments with the handheld fluorescence microscope were successful in imaging Nile Red-loaded microcapsules within the self-healing paint. However...the microcapsule shells were brighter than the entrained fluid, making it difficult to assess the health of the coating. Shear strength

Research and Development of Wound Dressing in Maxillofacial Trauma.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-11-16

distribution of the microcapsules is shown in Table 6. b. Microencapsulation of Antibiotic Drugs Recently a small microencapsulation unit was designed...TRACT (Coutou a reverawe. fi If nece~uzy amt Identify by block number) ’Three basic formulations, non-woven fabrics, powders, and microcapsules , of...fabrics with powders .and microcapsules . 1473 E~t1O~oINOSSI~BSOETEunclassified SECUmRY CLASSIFICATION OF THIS PAGE fWhen Dauta Enweved)’ unclassified

Synthesis of Polymeric Microcapsule Arrays and Their Use for Enzyme Immobilization

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-04-01

Polymeric Microcapsule Arrays and Their Use for Enzyme Immobilization by R. Parthasarathy and C. R. Martin Prepared for publication in Nature DTICI...REPORT TYPE AND DATES COVERED April 1994 Interim 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE S. FUNDING NUMBERS Synthesis of Polymeric Microcapsule Arrays and Their Contract...include adsorption or covalent attachment to a support, microencapsulation and entrapment within a membrane/film or gel. The ideal enzyme

Smart responsive microcapsules capable of recognizing heavy metal ions.

PubMed

Pi, Shuo-Wei; Ju, Xiao-Jie; Wu, Han-Guang; Xie, Rui; Chu, Liang-Yin

2010-09-15

Smart responsive microcapsules capable of recognizing heavy metal ions are successfully prepared with oil-in-water-in-oil double emulsions as templates for polymerization in this study. The microcapsules are featured with thin poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-benzo-18-crown-6-acrylamide) (P(NIPAM-co-BCAm)) membranes, and they can selectively recognize special heavy metal ions such as barium(II) or lead(II) ions very well due to the "host-guest" complexation between the BCAm receptors and barium(II) or lead(II) ions. The stable BCAm/Ba(2+) or BCAm/Pb(2+) complexes in the P(NIPAM-co-BCAm) membrane cause a positive shift of the volume phase transition temperature of the crosslinked P(NIPAM-co-BCAm) hydrogel to a higher temperature, and the repulsion among the charged BCAm/Ba(2+) or BCAm/Pb(2+) complexes and the osmotic pressure within the P(NIPAM-co-BCAm) membranes result in the swelling of microcapsules. Induced by recognizing barium(II) or lead(II) ions, the prepared microcapsules with P(NIPAM-co-BCAm) membranes exhibit isothermal and significant swelling not only in outer and inner diameters but also in the membrane thickness. The proposed microcapsules in this study are highly attractive for developing smart sensors and/or carriers for detection and/or elimination of heavy metal ions. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Microencapsulation Approach for Orally Extended Delivery of Glipizide: In vitro and in vivo Evaluation

PubMed Central

Abdelbary, A.; El-gendy, N. A.; Hosny, A.

2012-01-01

Glipizide is an effective antidiabetic agent, however, it suffers from relatively short biological half-life. To solve this encumbrance, it is a prospective candidate for fabricating glipizide extended release microcapsules. Microencapsulation of glipizde with a coat of alginate alone or in combination with chitosan or carbomer 934P was prepared employing ionotropic gelation process. The prepared microcapsules were evaluated in vitro by microscopical examination, determination of the particle size, yield and microencapsulation efficiency. The filled capsules were assessed for content uniformity and drug release characteristics. Stability study of the optimised formulas was carried out at three different temperatures over 12 weeks. In vivo bioavailability study and hypoglycemic activity of C9 microcapsules were done on albino rabbits. All formulas achieved high yield, microencapsulation efficiency and extended t1/2. C9 and C19 microcapsules attained the most optimised results in all tests and complied with the dissolution requirements for extended release dosage forms. These two formulas were selected for stability studies. C9 exhibited longer shelf-life and hence was chosen for in vivo studies. C9 microcapsules showed an improvement in the drug bioavailability and significant hypoglycemic activity compared to immediate release tablets (Minidiab® 5 mg). The optimised microcapsule formulation developed was found to produce extended antidiabetic activity. PMID:23626387

IL-1RA gene-transfected bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells in APA microcapsules could alleviate rheumatoid arthritis

PubMed Central

Hu, Jianhua; Li, Hongjian; Chi, Guanhao; Yang, Zhao; Zhao, Yi; Liu, Wei; Zhang, Chao

2015-01-01

Objectives: In order to investigate the encapsulation of interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-RA) gene-modified mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in alginate-poly-L-lysine (APA) microcapsules for the persistent delivery of interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-RA) to treat Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods: We transfect mesenchymal stem cells with IL-RA gene, and quantify the IL-RA proteins released from the encapsulated cells followed by microencapsulation of recombinant mesenchymal stem cells, and thus observe the permeability of APA microcapsules and evaluate clinical effects after induction and treatment of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA). The concentration of IL-RA in the supernatant was determined by IL-RA ELISA kit by run in technical triplicates using samples from three separate mice. Results: Encapsulated IL-RA gene-transfected cells were capable of constitutive delivery of IL-RA proteins for at least 30 days. Moreover, the APA microcapsules could inhibit the permeation of fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjuncted immunoglobulin G. Also, it has been found that the APA microcapsules can significantly attenuate collagen induced arthritis after delivering of APA microcapsules to rats. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that the nonautologous IL-RA gene-transfected stem cells are of potential utility for RA therapy. PMID:25785047

Impact of extra virgin olive oil and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) on the oxidative stability of fish oil emulsions and spray-dried microcapsules stabilized by sugar beet pectin.

PubMed

Polavarapu, Sudheera; Oliver, Christine M; Ajlouni, Said; Augustin, Mary Ann

2012-01-11

The influence of EDTA on lipid oxidation in sugar beet pectin-stabilized oil-in-water emulsions (pH 6, 15% oil, wet basis), prepared from fish oil (FO) and fish oil-extra virgin olive oil (FO-EVOO) (1:1 w/w), as well as the spray-dried microcapsules (50% oil, dry basis) prepared from these emulsions, was investigated. Under accelerated conditions (80 °C, 5 bar oxygen pressure) the oxidative stability was significantly (P < 0.05) higher for FO and FO-EVOO formulated with EDTA, in comparison to corresponding emulsions and spray-dried microcapsules formulated without EDTA. The EDTA effect was greater in emulsions than in spray-dried microcapsules, with the greatest protective effect obtained in FO-EVOO emulsions. EDTA enhanced the oxidative stability of the spray-dried microcapsules during ambient storage (~25 °C, a(w) = 0.5), as demonstrated by their lower concentration of headspace volatile oxidation products, propanal and hexanal. These results show that the addition of EDTA is an effective strategy to maximize the oxidative stability of both FO emulsions and spray-dried microcapsules in which sugar beet pectin is used as the encapsulant material.

A new approach in gastroretentive drug delivery system using cholestyramine.

PubMed

Umamaheshwari, R B; Jain, Subheet; Jain, N K

2003-01-01

We prepared cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB)-coated cholestyramine microcapsules as a intragastric floating drug delivery system endowed with floating ability due to the carbon dioxide generation when exposed to the gastric fluid. The microcapsules also have a mucoadhesive property. Ion-exchange resin particles can be loaded with bicarbonate followed by acetohydroxamic acid (AHA) and coated with CAB by emulsion solvent evaporation method. The drug concentration was monitored to maintain the floating property and minimum effective concentration. The effect of CAB: drug-resin ratio (2:1, 4:1, 6:1 w/w) on the particle size, floating time, and drug release was determined. Cholestyramine microcapsules were characterized for shape, surface characteristics, and size distribution; cholestyramine/acetohydroxamic acid interactions inside microcapsules were investigated by X-ray diffractometry. The buoyancy time of CAB-coated formulations was better than that of uncoated resin particles. Also, a longer floating time was observed with a higher polymer:drug resin complex ratio (6:1). With increasing coating thickness the particle size was increased but drug release rate was decreased. The drug release rate was higher in simulated gastric fluid (SGF) than in simulated intestinal fluid (SIF). The in vivo mucoadhesion studies were performed with rhodamine-isothiocyanate (RITC) by fluorescent probe method. The amount of CAB-coated cholestyramine microcapsules that remained in the stomach was slightly lower than that of uncoated resin particles. Cholestyramine microcapsules were distributed throughout the stomach and exhibited prolonged gastric residence via mucoadhesion. These results suggest that CAB-coated microcapsules could be a floating as well as a mucoadhesive drug delivery system. Thus, it has promise in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori.

Delayed release formulation of the somatostatin analog RC-160 inhibits the growth hormone (GH) response to GH-releasing factor-(1-29)NH2 and decreases elevated prolactin levels in rats.

PubMed

Bokser, L; Schally, A V

1988-10-01

Recently, we have developed a long-acting delivery system for our somatostatin (SS) analog RC-160 based on injectable microcapsules in poly-(D,L-lactide-coglycolide). We studied the capacity of this formulation to repeatedly block the GH secretion induced by administration of GRF-(1-29)NH2 (GRF) on different days. Male rats anesthetized with pentobarbital were injected iv with 2.5 micrograms/kg BW GRF-(1-29)NH2 or saline. Five minutes later, blood samples were taken for GH measurement, and the animals were injected im with RC-160 microcapsules at a dose calculated to release 25 micrograms/day of the analog for 7 days or with the vehicle. The GRF stimuli were repeated 48 h, 96 h, and 8 days after administration of SS analog in microcapsules. GRF administration increased GH levels at the four times tested (P less than 0.01) in the control group injected with vehicle, while RC-160 microcapsules inhibited the GH response for more than 96 h (P less than 0.01). The GH levels augmented by pentobarbital were also decreased by the RC-160 microcapsules (P less than 0.01). Animals treated with microcapsules showed smaller increases in their body weight than untreated rats (P less than 0.05). We also investigated the effect of RC-160 microcapsules on hyperprolactinemic female rats implanted with pituitary glands under the kidney capsules. High PRL levels in rats bearing pituitary grafts showed a significant decrease when measured 4 days after the administration of RC-160 microcapsules. These results demonstrate the efficacy of the long-acting delivery system of the SS analog RC-160 and suggest the possible clinical usefulness of this formulation for lowering GH and PRL levels.

Effect of complexation conditions on microcapsulation of Lactobacillus acidophilus in xanthan-chitosan polyelectrolyte complex gels.

PubMed

Chen, He; Song, Yajuan; Liu, Nina; Wan, Hongchang; Shu, Guowei; Liao, Na

2015-01-01

Lactobacillus acidophilus has become increasingly popular because of their beneficial effects on health of their host, and are called proboscis. In order to exert beneficial effects for probiotics, they must be able to tolerate the acidic conditions of the stomach environment and the bile in the small intestine. Microencapsulated form has received reasonable attention, since it can protect probiotic organisms against an unfavourable environment, and to allow their release in a viable and metabolically active state in the intestine. The aim of this study was to investigate some factores, such as chitosan solution pH and concentration, xanthan concentration, cell suspension-xanthan ratio, mixed bacteria glue liquid-chitosan ratio, which impacted the process of microencapsulation of L. acidophilus. In this study, L. acidophilus was immobilized with xanthan⁄chitosan gel using extrusion method. The viable counts and encapsulation yield of L. acidophilus encapsulated in different chitosan solution pH (4.5, 5, 5.5 and 6), in different chitosan concentration (0.5%, 0.7%, 0.9% and 1.1%), in different xanthan concentration (0.5%, 0.7%, 0.9% and 1.1%), in different cell suspension-xanthan ratios (1:5, 1:10, 1:15 and 1:20), in different mixed bacteria glue liquid-chitosan ratios (1:3, 1:4, 1:5 and 1:6), have been investigated by single factor experiment method. The optimum conditions of microencapsulated L. acidophilus have been observed. The optimum chitosan solution pH for L. acidophilus was 5.5; the optimum chitosan concentration was 0.9%; the optimum xanthan concentration was 0.7%; the optimum cell suspension-xanthan ratio was 1:10; the optimum mixed bacteria glue liquid-chitosan ratio was 1:3. These results will be helpful to further optimize the process of L. acidophilus microencapsulation, and provide reference for obtaining higher viable counts and entrapped yield of L. acidophilus microcapsules.

Process for Self-Repair of Insulation Material

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parrish, Clyde F. (Inventor)

2007-01-01

A self-healing system for an insulation material initiates a self-repair process by rupturing a plurality of microcapsules disposed on the insulation material. When the plurality of microcapsules are ruptured reactants witlun the plurality of microcapsules react to form a replacement polymer in a break of the insulation material. This self-healing system has the ability to repair multiple breaks in a length of insulation material without exhausting the repair properties of the material.

Process for self-repair of insulation material

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parrish, Clyde F. (Inventor)

2007-01-01

A self-healing system for an insulation material initiates a self-repair process by rupturing a plurality of microcapsules disposed on the insulation material. When the plurality of microcapsules are ruptured reactants within the plurality of microcapsules react to form a replacement polymer in a break of the insulation material. This self-healing system has the ability to repair multiple breaks in a length of insulation material without exhausting the repair properties of the material.

Convection-driven aggregation of micron sized capsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shklyaev, Oleg; Shum, Henry; Balazs, Anna

Collective dynamics of microcapsules often serve as a model for understanding behavior observed in colonies of biological cells. Using computer simulations, we explore the capability of chemically generated convection to assemble microcapsules into a colony with neighbors close enough to facilitate chemical communication. The microcapsules are assumed to carry a supply of chemical fuel. When this fuel, leaking out of the capsules, reacts at enzyme-covered sites of the chamber, the reaction generates fluid density variations driving flows. These flows carry the microcapsules, which tend to aggregate into colonies on and near the enzyme-covered sites. This aggregation continues until the reagent has been depleted and convection stops. We show that capsule colonies of predesigned shapes can be assembled by patterning the enzyme-covered surface.

Microencapsulation of Corrosion Indicators for Smart Coatings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Li, Wenyan; Buhrow, Jerry W.; Jolley, Scott T.; Calle, Luz M.; Hanna,Joshua S.; Rawlins, James W.

2011-01-01

A multifunctional smart coating for the autonomous detection, indication, and control of corrosion is been developed based on microencapsulation technology. This paper summarizes the development, optimization, and testing of microcapsules specifically designed for early detection and indication of corrosion when incorporated into a smart coating. Results from experiments designed to test the ability of the microcapsules to detect and indicate corrosion, when blended into several paint systems, show that these experimental coatings generate a color change, indicative of spot specific corrosion events, that can be observed with the naked eye within hours rather than the hundreds of hours or months typical of the standard accelerated corrosion test protocols.. Key words: smart coating, corrosion detection, microencapsulation, microcapsule, pH-sensitive microcapsule, corrosion indicator, corrosion sensing paint

Special Features of Light Absorption by the Dimer of Bilayer Microparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geints, Yu. É.; Panina, E. K.; Zemlyanov, A. A.

2018-05-01

Results of numerical simulation of light absorption by the dimer of bilayer spherical particles consisting of a water core and a polymer shell absorbing radiation are presented. The spatial distribution and the amplitude characteristics of the volume density of the absorbed power are investigated. It is shown that for a certain spatial dimer configuration, the maximal achievable density of the absorbed power is realized. It is also established that for closely spaced microcapsules with high shell absorption indices, the total power absorbed in the dimer volume can increase in comparison with the radiation absorption by two insulated microparticles.

Magnetically responsive calcium carbonate microcrystals.

PubMed

Fakhrullin, Rawil F; Bikmullin, Aidar G; Nurgaliev, Danis K

2009-09-01

Here we report the fabrication of magnetically responsive calcium carbonate microcrystals produced by coprecipitation of calcium carbonate in the presence of citrate-stabilized iron oxide nanoparticles. We demonstrate that the calcite microcrystals obtained possess superparamagnetic properties due to incorporated magnetite nanoparticles and can be manipulated by an external magnetic field. The microcrystals doped with magnetic nanoparticles were utilized as templates for the fabrication of hollow polyelectrolyte microcapsules, which retain the magnetic properties of the sacrificial cores and might be spatially manipulated using a permanent magnet, thus providing the magnetic-field-facilitated delivery and separation of materials templated on magnetically responsive calcite microcrystals.

Influence of nesting shell size on brightness longevity and resistance to ultrasound-induced dissolution during enhanced B-mode contrast imaging.

PubMed

Wallace, N; Dicker, S; Lewin, P; Wrenn, S P

2014-12-01

This study aims to bridge the gap between transport mechanisms of an improved ultrasound contrast agent (UCA) and its resulting behavior in a clinical imaging study. Phospholipid-shelled microbubbles nested within the aqueous core of a polymer microcapsule are examined for their use and feasibility as an improved UCA. The nested formulation provides contrast comparable to traditional formulations, specifically an SF6 microbubble coated by a DSPC PEG-3000 monolayer, with the advantage that contrast persists at least nine times longer in a mock clinical, in vitro setting. The effectiveness of the sample was measured using a contrast ratio in units of decibels (dB) which compares the brightness of the nested microbubbles to a reference value of a phantom tissue mimic. During a 40min imaging study, six nesting formulations with average outer capsule diameters of 1.95, 2.53, 5.55, 9.95, 14.95, and 20.51μm reached final contrast ratio values of 0.25, 2.35, 3.68, 4.51, 5.93, and 8.00dB, respectively. The starting contrast ratio in each case was approximately 8dB and accounts for the brightness attributed to the nesting shell. As compared with empty microcapsules (no microbubbles nested within), enhancement of the initial contrast ratio increased systematically with decreasing microcapsule size. The time required to reach a steady state in the temporal contrast ratio profile also varied with microcapsule diameter and was found to be 420s for each of the four smallest shell diameters and 210s and 150s, respectively, for the largest two shell diameters. All nested formulations were longer-lived and gave higher final contrast ratios than a control sample comprising un-nested, but otherwise equivalent, microbubbles. Specifically, the contrast ratio of the un-nested microbubbles decreased to a negative value after 4min of continuous ultrasound exposure with complete disappearance of the microbubbles after 15min whereas all nested formulations maintained positive contrast ratio values for the duration of the 40min trial. The results are consistent with two distinct stages of gas transport: in the first stage, passive diffusion occurs under ambient conditions across the microbubble monolayer within the first few minutes after formulation until the aqueous interior of the microcapsule is saturated with gas; in the second stage ultrasound drives additional gas dissolution even further due to pressure modulation. It is important to understand the chemistry and transport mechanisms of this contrast agent under the influence of ultrasound to attain better perspicacity for enhanced applications in imaging. Results from this study will facilitate future preclinical studies and clinical applications of nested microbubbles for therapeutic and diagnostic imaging. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Magnetically triggered release of molecular cargo from iron oxide nanoparticle loaded microcapsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carregal-Romero, Susana; Guardia, Pablo; Yu, Xiang; Hartmann, Raimo; Pellegrino, Teresa; Parak, Wolfgang J.

2014-12-01

Photothermal release of cargo molecules has been extensively studied for bioapplications. For instance, microcapsules decorated with plasmonic nanoparticles have been widely used in in vitro assays. However, some concerns about their suitability for some in vivo applications cannot be easily overcome, in particular the limited penetration depth of light (even infrared). Magnetic nanoparticles are alternative heat-mediators for local heating, which can be triggered by applying an alternating magnetic field (AMF). AMFs are much less absorbed by tissue than light and thus can penetrate deeper overcoming the above mentioned limitations. Here we present iron oxide nanocube-modified microcapsules as a platform for magnetically triggered molecular release. Layer-by-layer assembled polyelectrolyte microcapsules with 4.6 μm diameter, which had 18 nm diameter iron oxide nanocubes integrated in their walls, were synthesized. The microcapsules were further loaded with an organic fluorescent polymer (Cascade Blue-labelled dextran), which was used as a model of molecular cargo. Through an AMF the magnetic nanoparticles were able to heat their surroundings and destroy the microcapsule walls, leading to a final release of the embedded cargo to the surrounding solution. The cargo release was monitored in solution by measuring the increase in both absorbance and fluorescence signal after the exposure to an AMF. Our results demonstrate that magnetothermal release of the encapsulated material is possible using magnetic nanoparticles with a high heating performance.Photothermal release of cargo molecules has been extensively studied for bioapplications. For instance, microcapsules decorated with plasmonic nanoparticles have been widely used in in vitro assays. However, some concerns about their suitability for some in vivo applications cannot be easily overcome, in particular the limited penetration depth of light (even infrared). Magnetic nanoparticles are alternative heat-mediators for local heating, which can be triggered by applying an alternating magnetic field (AMF). AMFs are much less absorbed by tissue than light and thus can penetrate deeper overcoming the above mentioned limitations. Here we present iron oxide nanocube-modified microcapsules as a platform for magnetically triggered molecular release. Layer-by-layer assembled polyelectrolyte microcapsules with 4.6 μm diameter, which had 18 nm diameter iron oxide nanocubes integrated in their walls, were synthesized. The microcapsules were further loaded with an organic fluorescent polymer (Cascade Blue-labelled dextran), which was used as a model of molecular cargo. Through an AMF the magnetic nanoparticles were able to heat their surroundings and destroy the microcapsule walls, leading to a final release of the embedded cargo to the surrounding solution. The cargo release was monitored in solution by measuring the increase in both absorbance and fluorescence signal after the exposure to an AMF. Our results demonstrate that magnetothermal release of the encapsulated material is possible using magnetic nanoparticles with a high heating performance. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr04055d

Biointerfacing polymeric microcapsules for in vivo near-infrared light-triggered drug release

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shao, Jingxin; Xuan, Mingjun; Si, Tieyan; Dai, Luru; He, Qiang

2015-11-01

Seeking safe and effective water-soluble drug carriers is of great significance in nanomedicine. To achieve this goal, we present a novel drug delivery system based on biointerfacing hollow polymeric microcapsules for effectively encapsulating water-soluble antitumor drug and gold nanorod (GNR) functionalization for triggered release of therapeutic drugs on-demand using low power near-infrared (NIR) radiation. The surface of polymeric microcapsules is covered with fluidic lipid bilayers to decrease the permeability of the wall of polymeric capsules. The temperature increase upon NIR illumination deconstructs the structure of the lipid membrane and polyelectrolyte multilayers, which in turn results in the rapid release of encapsulated water-soluble drug. In vivo antitumor tests demonstrate that this microcapsule has the effective ability of inhibiting tumor growth and preventing metastases. Real time in vivo fluorescence imaging results confirm that capsules can be excreted gradually from the animal body which in turn demonstrates the biocompatibility and biodegradation of these biointerfacing GNR-microcapsules. This intelligent system provides a novel anticancer platform with the advantages of controlled release, biological friendliness and credible biosafety.Seeking safe and effective water-soluble drug carriers is of great significance in nanomedicine. To achieve this goal, we present a novel drug delivery system based on biointerfacing hollow polymeric microcapsules for effectively encapsulating water-soluble antitumor drug and gold nanorod (GNR) functionalization for triggered release of therapeutic drugs on-demand using low power near-infrared (NIR) radiation. The surface of polymeric microcapsules is covered with fluidic lipid bilayers to decrease the permeability of the wall of polymeric capsules. The temperature increase upon NIR illumination deconstructs the structure of the lipid membrane and polyelectrolyte multilayers, which in turn results in the rapid release of encapsulated water-soluble drug. In vivo antitumor tests demonstrate that this microcapsule has the effective ability of inhibiting tumor growth and preventing metastases. Real time in vivo fluorescence imaging results confirm that capsules can be excreted gradually from the animal body which in turn demonstrates the biocompatibility and biodegradation of these biointerfacing GNR-microcapsules. This intelligent system provides a novel anticancer platform with the advantages of controlled release, biological friendliness and credible biosafety. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr06350g

Evaluation of possible reasons for the low phenylalanine ammonia lyase activity in cellulose nitrate membrane microcapsules.

PubMed

Habibi-Moini, S; D'mello, A P

2001-03-14

Microencapsulated phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) exhibits a marked reduction in activity compared to the activity of the free enzyme in pH 8.5 Tris buffer. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the contribution of incomplete entrapment, the internal environment of cellulose nitrate membrane microcapsules, the diffusional barrier of the membrane and the microcapsulation process to the low activity of encapsulated PAL. A solution of PAL and 10% w/v hemoglobin was incorporated into cellulose nitrate membrane microcapsules. Hemoglobin incorporation was used as a surrogate marker of PAL entrapment. Using 14C hemoglobin, the encapsulation efficiency was determined to be 70% and suggested that incomplete entrapment might partially account for the low activity of encapsulated PAL. The effect of the internal environment of the microcapsule (10% hemoglobin solution) on PAL activity was evaluated by comparing enzyme activity in 10% w/v hemoglobin solution and pH 8.5 Tris buffer. Similar K(M) and V(max) values of PAL in the two media indicated that the internal environment of the microcapsule did not contribute to the reduction in activity of the encapsulated enzyme. The contribution of a membrane diffusional barrier was determined by breaking the putative barrier and measuring PAL activity in intact and broken microcapsules. Similar activity of PAL in these two conditions is evidence for the lack of a diffusional barrier. The effect of the microencapsulation process on PAL activity was evaluated by comparing K(M) and V(max) of free and encapsulated PAL. Similar K(M) values in these two media suggested that the process did not affect the conformation of PAL. However, encapsulated PAL had a 50% lower V(max) value compared to free PAL, which showed that the microencapsulation process deactivated a substantial proportion of the enzyme.

Fabrication and Characterization of Novel Electrothermal Self-Healing Microcapsules with Graphene/Polymer Hybrid Shells for Bitumenious Material.

PubMed

Wang, Xinyu; Guo, Yandong; Su, Junfeng; Zhang, Xiaolong; Wang, Yingyuan; Tan, Yiqiu

2018-06-09

Self-healing bituminous material has been a hot research topic in self-healing materials, and this smart self-healing approach is a promising a revolution in pavement material technology. Bitumen has a self-healing naturality relating to temperature, healing time, and aging degree. To date, heat induction and microencapsulation rejuvenator are two feasible approaches, which have been put into real applications. However, both methods have disadvantages limiting their practical results and efficiency. It will be an ideal method combining the advantages and avoiding the disadvantages of the above two methods at the same time. The aim of this work was to synthesize and characterize electrothermal self-healing microcapsules containing bituminous rejuvenator with graphene/organic nanohybrid structure shells. The microcapsules owned electric conductivity capability because of the advent of graphene, and realized the self-healing through the two approaches of heat induction and rejuvenation. The microcapsule shells were fabricated using a strength hexamethoxymethylmelamine (HMMM) resin and graphene by two-step hybrid polymerization. Experimental tests were carried out to character the morphology, integrity, and shell structure. It was found that the electric charge balance determined the graphene/HMMM microstructure. The graphene content in shells could not be greatly increased under an electrostatic balance in emulsion. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), Transmission electron microscope (TEM) and Atomic force microscopy (AFM) results indicated that the graphene had deposited on shells. TGA/DTG tests implied that the thermal decomposition temperature of microcapsules with graphene had increased to about 350 °C. The thermal conductivity of microcapsules had been sharply increased to about 8.0 W/m²·K with 2.0 wt % graphene in shells. At the same time, electrical resistivity of microcapsules/bitumen samples had a decrease with more graphene in bitumen.

Stiffness-independent highly efficient on-chip extraction of cell-laden hydrogel microcapsules from oil emulsion into aqueous solution by dielectrophoresis

PubMed Central

Huang, Haishui; Sun, Mingrui; Heisler-Taylor, Tyler; Kiourti, Asimina; Volakis, John; Lafyatis, Gregory

2015-01-01

A dielectrophoresis (DEP)-based method is reported to achieve highly efficient on-chip extraction of cell-laden microcapsules of any stiffness from oil into aqueous solution. The hydrogel microcapsules can be extracted into the aqueous solution by DEP and interfacial tension (IFT) forces with no trapped oil while the encapsulated cells are free from the electrical damages due to the Faraday cage effect. PMID:26297051

Investigations Concerning Hydrolysis and Stabilization of Antiradiation Compounds

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-01-01

Stability of Unencapsulated WR 2721 31 V. DISCUSSION 35 A. Microencapsulation 35 1. Microspheres 35 2. Microcapsules 35 B. Hydrolytic Stability of...in 1.5 hours at 370C in buffered solutions of pH 1.0 or 3.0. 3^ The more promising microspheres and microcapsules released the WR 2721 within two...hours at pH 7.5 in buffered solutions. 4) Analytical procedures were developed for: "♦ WR 2721 (directly) in microcapsules using an HPLC

Enhancement of Antiviral Agents Through the Use of Controlled-Release Technology.

DTIC Science & Technology

DL-lactide-co-glycolide) to be used as the polymeric excipients in the microencapsulation work. In addition, we have actively pursued development and testing of poly(I.C) and Je vaccine microcapsule formulations....of this research program are a) To develop a programmed-release delivery system ( microcapsule system) designed to enhance the immunogenic potential of...release microcapsule delivery systems that will enhance the effects of the following immune modulators and antiviral agents: muramyl tripeptide (MTP

Microcapsules engineered to support mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) survival and proliferation enable long-term retention of MSCs in infarcted myocardium.

PubMed

Blocki, Anna; Beyer, Sebastian; Dewavrin, Jean-Yves; Goralczyk, Anna; Wang, Yingting; Peh, Priscilla; Ng, Michael; Moonshi, Shehzahdi S; Vuddagiri, Susmitha; Raghunath, Michael; Martinez, Eliana C; Bhakoo, Kishore K

2015-06-01

The limited efficacy of cardiac cell-based therapy is thought to be due to poor cell retention within the myocardium. Hence, there is an urgent need for biomaterials that aid in long-term cell retention. This study describes the development of injectable microcapsules for the delivery of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into the infarcted cardiac wall. These microcapsules comprise of low concentrations of agarose supplemented with extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins collagen and fibrin. Dextran sulfate, a negatively charged polycarbohydrate, was added to mimic glycosaminoglycans in the ECM. Cell viability assays showed that a combination of all components is necessary to support long-term survival and proliferation of MSCs within microcapsules. Following intramyocardial transplantation, microcapsules degraded slowly in vivo and did not induce a fibrotic foreign body response. Pre-labeling of encapsulated MSCs with iron oxide nanoparticles allowed continued cell-tracking by MRI over several weeks following transplantation into infarcted myocardium. In contrast, MSCs injected as cell suspension were only detectable for two days post transplantation by MRI. Histological analysis confirmed integration of transplanted cells at the infarct site. Therefore, microcapsules proved to be suitable for stem cell delivery into the infarcted myocardium and can overcome current limitations of poor cell retention in cardiac cell-based therapy. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microcapsules biologically prepared using Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. essential oil and their use for extension of fruit shelf life.

PubMed

Li, Na; Zhang, Zhi-Jun; Li, Xiao-Jun; Li, Hui-Zhen; Cui, Li-Xia; He, Dong-Liang

2018-02-01

Perilla essential oil (EO) possesses high antioxidant, antimicrobial and insecticidal activities, and has proven to be more reliable than chemically synthesized food preservatives. Nevertheless, EOs have disadvantages of facile photo-degradation and oxidation, which limit their use in agriculture and food industries. Microencapsulation technology that generates a polymeric coating surrounding EOs could overcome these disadvantages. The EO concentration had a significant effect on encapsulation efficiency (EE) and loading capacity (LC). The best encapsulation conditions were obtained with 2% v/v EO, for which EE and LC were 57% and 36%, respectively. EO-loaded microspheres exhibited a crimped surface with phanic lumps by scanning electron microscopy. Thermal stability experiments revealed droplets that began to decompose sharply at 108 °C, with a 61% weight, loss, which was much lower than EOs of 98%. EO-loaded microcapsules demonstrated good antibacterial activity. Strawberry preservation studies showed that EO-loaded microcapsules could significantly inhibit strawberry decay, maintain the quality of strawberries and prolong shelf life. Perilla EO-loaded microcapsules were successfully prepared by ionic gelation and were effective at inhibiting several bacterial strains. EO-alginate microcapsules could effectively delay the volatilization of EO. Perilla EO-loaded microcapsules therefore have potential for use as an antimicrobial and preservative agent in the food industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Barium-cross-linked alginate-gelatine microcapsule as a potential platform for stem cell production and modular tissue formation.

PubMed

Alizadeh Sardroud, Hamed; Nemati, Sorour; Baradar Khoshfetrat, Ali; Nabavinia, Mahbobeh; Beygi Khosrowshahi, Younes

2017-08-01

Influence of gelatine concentration and cross-linker ions of Ca 2+ and Ba 2+ was evaluated on characteristics of alginate hydrogels and proliferation behaviours of model adherent and suspendable stem cells of fibroblast and U937 embedded in alginate microcapsules. Increasing gelatine concentration to 2.5% increased extent of swelling to 15% and 25% for barium- and calcium-cross-linked hydrogels, respectively. Mechanical properties also decreased with increasing swelling of hydrogels. Both by increasing gelatine concentration and using barium ions increased considerably the proliferation of encapsulated model stem cells. Barium-cross-linked alginate-gelatine microcapsule tested for bone building block showed a 13.5 ± 1.5-fold expansion for osteoblast cells after 21 days with deposition of bone matrix. The haematopoietic stem cells cultured in the microcapsule after 7 days also showed up to 2-fold increase without adding any growth factor. The study demonstrates that barium-cross-linked alginate-gelatine microcapsule has potential for use as a simple and efficient 3D platform for stem cell production and modular tissue formation.

The stability and degradation kinetics of Sulforaphene in microcapsules based on several biopolymers via spray drying.

PubMed

Tian, Guifang; Li, Yuan; Yuan, Qipeng; Cheng, Li; Kuang, Pengqun; Tang, Pingwah

2015-05-20

Sulforaphene (SFE) was extracted from the radish seeds and the purity of SFE extracted by our laboratory was 95%. It is well known that SFE can prevent cancers. It is also known that SFE is unstable to heat. To overcome the problem, SFE microcapsules using natural biopolymers were prepared by spray drying. The results indicated that SFE microcapsules using hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD), maltodextrin (MD) and isolated soybean protein (SPI) as wall materials could effectively improve its stability against heat, especially SFE-loaded HP-β-CD and MD microcapsules. The amount of SFE in the microcapsules was found 20% higher than that of the non-encapsulated SFE under 90 °C in 168 h. Our finding suggested that the rate of degradation of the non-encapsulated and encapsulated SFE with HP-β-CD, MD and SPI followed the first-order kinetics. The speed of the degradation of the encapsulated SFE in biopolymers increased from SFE with HP-β-CD, to SFE with MD, and to SFE-SPI. The non-encapsulated SFE degrades fastest. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Nanoparticle/Polymer assembled microcapsules with pH sensing property.

PubMed

Zhang, Pan; Song, Xiaoxue; Tong, Weijun; Gao, Changyou

2014-10-01

The dual-labeled microcapsules via nanoparticle/polymer assembly based on polyamine-salt aggregates can be fabricated for the ratiometric intracellular pH sensing. After deposition of SiO2 nanoparticles on the poly(allylamine hydrochloride)/multivalent anionic salt aggregates followed by silicic acid treatment, the generated microcapsules are stable in a wide pH range (3.0 ∼ 8.0). pH sensitive dye and pH insensitive dye are simultaneously labeled on the capsules, which enable the ratiometric pH sensing. Due to the rough and positively charged surface, the microcapsules can be internalized by several kinds of cells naturally. Real-time measurement of intracellular pH in several living cells shows that the capsules are all located in acidic organelles after being taken up. Furthermore, the negatively charged DNA and dyes can be easily encapsulated into the capsules via charge interaction. The microcapsules with combination of localized pH sensing and drug loading abilities have many advantages, such as following the real-time transportation and processing of the carriers in cells. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Laser-induced fast fusion of gold nanoparticle-modified polyelectrolyte microcapsules.

PubMed

Wu, Yingjie; Frueh, Johannes; Si, Tieyan; Möhwald, Helmuth; He, Qiang

2015-02-07

In this study we investigated the effect of laser-induced membrane fusion of polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEM) based microcapsules bearing surface-attached gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in aqueous media. We demonstrate that a dense coating of the capsules with AuNPs leads to enhanced light absorption, causing an increase of local temperature. This enhances the migration of polyelectrolytes within the PEMs and thus enables a complete fusion of two or more capsules. The encapsulated substances can achieve complete merging upon short-term laser irradiation (30 s, 30 mW @ 650 nm). The whole fusion process is followed by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. In control experiments, microcapsules without AuNPs do not show a significant capsule fusion upon irradiation. It was also found that the duration of capsule fusion is affected by the density of AuNPs on the shell - the higher the density of AuNPs the shorter the fusion time. All these findings confirm that laser-induced microcapsule fusion is a new type of membrane fusion. This effect helps to study the interior exchange reactions of functional microcapsules, micro-reactors and drug transport across multilayers.

Subcellular Carrier-Based Optical Ion-Selective Nanosensors

PubMed Central

Carregal-Romero, Susana; Montenegro, Jose-Maria; Parak, Wolfgang J.; Rivera_Gil, Pilar

2012-01-01

In this review, two carrier systems based on nanotechnology for real-time sensing of biologically relevant analytes (ions or other biological molecules) inside cells in a non-invasive way are discussed. One system is based on inorganic nanoparticles with an organic coating, whereas the second system is based on organic microcapsules. The sensor molecules presented within this work use an optical read-out. Due to the different physicochemical properties, both sensors show distinctive geometries that directly affect their internalization patterns. The nanoparticles carry the sensor molecule attached to their surfaces whereas the microcapsules encapsulate the sensor within their cavities. Their different size (nano and micro) enable each sensors to locate in different cellular regions. For example, the nanoparticles are mostly found in endolysosomal compartments but the microcapsules are rather found in phagolysosomal vesicles. Thus, allowing creating a tool of sensors that sense differently. Both sensor systems enable to measure ratiometrically however, only the microcapsules have the unique ability of multiplexing. At the end, an outlook on how more sophisticated sensors can be created by confining the nano-scaled sensors within the microcapsules will be given. PMID:22557969

Synthesis of polymeric microcapsule arrays and their use for enzyme immobilization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parthasarathy, Ranjani V.; Martin, Charles R.

1994-05-01

CURRENT methods for immobilizing enzymes for use in bioreactors and biosensors1-20 include adsorption on or covalent attachment to a support2-4, micro-encapsulation5,6, and entrapment within a membrane/film7,8,11-20 or gel9. The ideal immobilization method should employ mild chemical conditions, allow for large quantities of enzyme to be immobilized, provide a large surface area for enzyme-substrate contact within a small total volume, minimize barriers to mass transport of substrate and product, and provide a chemically and mechanically robust system. Here we describe a method for enzyme immobilization that satisfies all of these criteria. We have developed a template-based synthetic method that yields hollow polymeric microcapsules of uniform diameter and length. These microcapsules are arranged in a high-density array in which the individual capsules protrude from a surface like the bristles of a brush. We have developed procedures for filling these microcapsules with high concentrations of enzymes. The enzyme-loaded microcapsule arrays function as enzymatic bioreactors in both aqueous solution and organic solvents.

Research of Amoxicillin Microcapsules Preparation Playing Micro-Jetting Technology

PubMed Central

Sun, Huaiyuan; Gu, Qingqing; Liao, Yuehua; Sun, Chenjie

2015-01-01

With polylactic-co-glycolic acid(PLGA) as shell material of microcapsule, amoxicillin as the model, poly(vinyl alcohol) and twain as surfactant, amoxicillin-PLGA microcapsules were manufactured using digital micro-jetting technology and a glass nozzle of 40μm diameter. The influences of the parameters of micro-jetting system on the mean grain size and size distribution of amoxicillin-PLGA microcapsules were studied with single factor analysis and orthogonal experiment method, namely, PLGA solution concentration, driving voltage, jetting frequency, stirrer speed, etc. The optimal result was obtained; the form representation of microcapsule was analyzed as well. The results show that, under certain conditions of experimental drug prescription, driving voltage was proportional to the particle size; jetting frequency and stirrer speed were inversely proportional. When the PLGA concentration for 3%, driving voltage for 80V, the jetting frequency for 10000Hz and the stirrer speed for 750rpm, the particles were in an ideal state with the mean grain size of 60.246μm, the encapsulation efficiency reached 62.39％ and 2.1％ for drug loading. PMID:25937851

Damage properties simulations of self-healing composites.

PubMed

Chen, Cheng; Ji, Hongwei; Wang, Huaiwen

2013-10-01

Self-healing materials are inspired by biological systems in which damage triggers an autonomic healing response. The damage properties of a self-healing polymer composite were investigated by numerical simulation in this paper. Unit cell models with single-edge centered crack and single-edge off-centered crack were employed to investigate the damage initiation and crack evolution by the extended finite element method (XFEM) modeling. The effect of microcapsule's Young's modulus on composites was investigated. Result indicates the microcapsule's Young's modulus has little effect on the unit cell's carrying capacity. It was found that during the crack propagation process, its direction is attracted toward the microcapsules, which makes it helpful for the microcapsules to be ruptured by the propagating crack fronts resulting in release of the healing agent into the cracks by capillary action.

Stiffness-Independent Highly Efficient On-Chip Extraction of Cell-Laden Hydrogel Microcapsules from Oil Emulsion into Aqueous Solution by Dielectrophoresis.

PubMed

Huang, Haishui; Sun, Mingrui; Heisler-Taylor, Tyler; Kiourti, Asimina; Volakis, John; Lafyatis, Gregory; He, Xiaoming

2015-10-28

A dielectrophoresis (DEP)-based method achieves highly efficient on-chip extraction of cell-laden microcapsules of any stiffness from oil into aqueous solution. The hydrogel microcapsules can be extracted into the aqueous solution by DEP and interfacial tension forces with no trapped oil, while the encapsulated cells are free from electrical damage due to the Faraday cage effect. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Catalytic Propulsion and Magnetic Steering of Soft, Patchy Microcapsules: Ability to Pick-Up and Drop-Off Microscale Cargo.

PubMed

Lu, Annie Xi; Liu, Yijing; Oh, Hyuntaek; Gargava, Ankit; Kendall, Eric; Nie, Zhihong; DeVoe, Don L; Raghavan, Srinivasa R

2016-06-22

We describe the creation of polymeric microcapsules that can exhibit autonomous motion along defined trajectories. The capsules are made by cross-linking aqueous microdroplets of the biopolymer chitosan using glutaraldehyde. A coflow microfluidic tubing device is used to generate chitosan droplets containing nanoparticles (NPs) with an iron (Fe) core and a platinum (Pt) shell. The droplets are then incubated in a Petri dish with the cross-linking solution, and an external magnet is placed below the Petri dish to pull the NPs together as a collective "patch" on one end of each droplet. This results in cross-linked capsules (∼150 μm in diameter) with an anisotropic (patchy) structure. When these capsules are placed in a solution of H2O2, the Pt shell of the NPs catalyzes the decomposition of H2O2 into O2 gas, which is ejected from the patchy end in the form of bubbles. As a result, the capsules (which are termed micromotors) move in a direction opposite to the bubbles. Furthermore, the micromotors can be steered along specific paths by an external magnet (the magnetic response arises due to the Fe in the core of the NPs). A given micromotor can thus be directed to meet with and adhere to an inert capsule, i.e., a model cargo. Adhesion occurs due to the soft nature of the two structures. Once the cargo is picked up, the micromotor-cargo pair can be moved along a specific path to a destination, whereupon the cargo can be released from the micromotor. We believe these soft micromotors offer significant benefits over their existing hard counterparts because of their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to encapsulate a variety of payloads.

Injector for liquid fueled rocket engine

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cornelius, Charles S. (Inventor); Myers, W. Neill (Inventor); Shadoan, Michael David (Inventor); Sparks, David L. (Inventor)

2000-01-01

An injector for liquid fueled rocket engines wherein a generally flat core having a frustoconical dome attached to one side of the core to serve as a manifold for a first liquid, with the core having a generally circular configuration having an axis. The other side of the core has a plurality of concentric annular first slots and a plurality of annular concentric second slots alternating with the first slots, the second slots having a greater depth than said first slots. A bore extends through the core for inletting a second liquid into said core, the bore intersecting the second slots to feed the second liquid into the second slots. The core also has a plurality of first passageways leading from the manifold to the first annular slots for feeding the first liquid into said first slots. A faceplate brazed to said other side of the core is provided with apertures extending from the first and second slots through said face plate, these apertures being positioned to direct fuel and liquid oxygen into contact with each other in the combustion chamber. The first liquid may be liquid oxygen and the second liquid may be kerosene or liquid hydrogen.

Partial characterization of chayotextle starch-based films added with ascorbic acid encapsulated in resistant starch.

PubMed

Martínez-Ortiz, Miguel A; Vargas-Torres, Apolonio; Román-Gutiérrez, Alma D; Chavarría-Hernández, Norberto; Zamudio-Flores, Paul B; Meza-Nieto, Martín; Palma-Rodríguez, Heidi M

2017-05-01

Chayotextle starch was modified by subjecting it to a dual treatment with acid and heating-cooling cycles. This caused a decrease in the content of amylose, which showed values of 30.22%, 4.80%, 3.27% and 3.57% for native chayotextle starch (NCS), starch modified by acid hydrolysis (CMS), and CMS with one (CMS1AC) and three autoclave cycles (CMS3AC), respectively. The percentage of crystallinity showed an increase of 36.9%-62% for NCS and CMS3AC. The highest content of resistant starch (RS) was observed in CMS3AC (37.05%). The microcapsules were made with CMS3AC due to its higher RS content; the total content of ascorbic acid of the microcapsules was 82.3%. The addition of different concentrations of CMS3AC microcapsules (0%, 2.5%, 6.255% and 12.5%) to chayotextle starch-based films (CSF) increased their tensile strength and elastic modulus. The content of ascorbic acid and RS in CSF was ranged from 0% to 59.4% and from 4.84% to 37.05% in the control film and in the film mixed with CMS3AC microcapsules, respectively. Water vapor permeability (WVP) values decreased with increasing concentrations of microcapsules in the films. Microscopy observations showed that higher concentrations of microcapsules caused agglomerations due their poor distribution in the matrix of the films. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fabrication of Protein Microparticles and Microcapsules with Biomolecular Tools

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheung, Kwan Yee; Lai, Kwok Kei; Mak, Wing Cheung

2018-05-01

Microparticles have attracted much attention for medical, analytical and biological applications. Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) templating method with the advantages of having narrow size distribution, controlled morphology and good biocompatibility that has been widely used for the synthesis of various protein-based microparticles. Despite CaCO3 template is biocompatible, most of the conventional methods to create stable protein microparticles are mainly driven by chemical crosslink reagents which may induce potential harmful effect and remains undesirable especially for biomedical or clinical applications. In this article, we demonstrate the fabrication of protein microparticles and microcapsules with an innovative method using biomolecular tools such as enzymes and affinity molecules to trigger the assembling of protein molecules within a porous CaCO3 template followed by a template removal step. We demonstrated the enzyme-assisted fabrication of collagen microparticles triggered by transglutaminase, as well as the affinity-assisted fabrication of BSA-biotin avidin microcapsules triggered by biotin-avidin affinity interaction, respectively. Based on the different protein assemble mechanisms, the collagen microparticles appeared as a solid-structured particles, while the BSA-biotin avidin microcapsules appeared as hollow-structured morphology. The fabrication procedures are simple and robust that allows producing protein microparticles or microcapsules under mild conditions at physiological pH and temperature. In addition, the microparticle morphologies, protein compositions and the assemble mechanisms were studied. Our technology provides a facile approach to design and fabricate protein microparticles and microcapsules that are useful in the area of biomaterials, pharmaceuticals and analytical chemistry.

HematoPorphyrin Monomethyl Ether polymer contrast agent for ultrasound/photoacoustic dual-modality imaging-guided synergistic high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Sijing; Lu, Min; Ding, Xiaoya; Chen, Fei; He, Xuemei; Xu, Chunyan; Zhou, Hang; Wang, Qi; Hao, Lan; Zou, Jianzhong

2016-08-01

This study is to prepare a hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether (HMME)-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microcapsules (HMME/PLGA), which could not only function as efficient contrast agent for ultrasound (US)/photoacoustic (PA) imaging, but also as a synergistic agent for high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation. Sonosensitizer HMME nanoparticles were integrated into PLGA microcapsules with the double emulsion evaporation method. After characterization, the cell-killing and cell proliferation-inhibiting effects of HMME/PLGA microcapsules on ovarian cancer SKOV3 cells were assessed. The US/PA imaging-enhancing effects and synergistic effects on HIFU were evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. HMME/PLGA microcapsules were highly dispersed with well-defined spherical morphology (357 ± 0.72 nm in diameter, PDI = 0.932). Encapsulation efficiency and drug-loading efficiency were 58.33 ± 0.95% and 4.73 ± 0.15%, respectively. The HMME/PLGA microcapsules remarkably killed the SKOV3 cells and inhibited the cell proliferation, significantly enhanced the US/PA imaging results and greatly enhanced the HIFU ablation effects on ovarian cancer in nude mice by the HMME-mediated sono-dynamic chemistry therapy (SDT). HMME/PLGA microcapsules represent a potential multifunctional contrast agent for HIFU diagnosis and treatment, which might provide a novel strategy for the highly efficient imaging-guided non-invasive HIFU synergistic therapy for cancers by SDT in clinic.

HematoPorphyrin Monomethyl Ether polymer contrast agent for ultrasound/photoacoustic dual-modality imaging-guided synergistic high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy

PubMed Central

Yan, Sijing; LU, Min; Ding, Xiaoya; Chen, Fei; He, Xuemei; Xu, Chunyan; Zhou, Hang; Wang, Qi; Hao, Lan; Zou, Jianzhong

2016-01-01

This study is to prepare a hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether (HMME)-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microcapsules (HMME/PLGA), which could not only function as efficient contrast agent for ultrasound (US)/photoacoustic (PA) imaging, but also as a synergistic agent for high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation. Sonosensitizer HMME nanoparticles were integrated into PLGA microcapsules with the double emulsion evaporation method. After characterization, the cell-killing and cell proliferation-inhibiting effects of HMME/PLGA microcapsules on ovarian cancer SKOV3 cells were assessed. The US/PA imaging-enhancing effects and synergistic effects on HIFU were evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. HMME/PLGA microcapsules were highly dispersed with well-defined spherical morphology (357 ± 0.72 nm in diameter, PDI = 0.932). Encapsulation efficiency and drug-loading efficiency were 58.33 ± 0.95% and 4.73 ± 0.15%, respectively. The HMME/PLGA microcapsules remarkably killed the SKOV3 cells and inhibited the cell proliferation, significantly enhanced the US/PA imaging results and greatly enhanced the HIFU ablation effects on ovarian cancer in nude mice by the HMME-mediated sono-dynamic chemistry therapy (SDT). HMME/PLGA microcapsules represent a potential multifunctional contrast agent for HIFU diagnosis and treatment, which might provide a novel strategy for the highly efficient imaging-guided non-invasive HIFU synergistic therapy for cancers by SDT in clinic. PMID:27535093

HematoPorphyrin Monomethyl Ether polymer contrast agent for ultrasound/photoacoustic dual-modality imaging-guided synergistic high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy.

PubMed

Yan, Sijing; Lu, Min; Ding, Xiaoya; Chen, Fei; He, Xuemei; Xu, Chunyan; Zhou, Hang; Wang, Qi; Hao, Lan; Zou, Jianzhong

2016-08-18

This study is to prepare a hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether (HMME)-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microcapsules (HMME/PLGA), which could not only function as efficient contrast agent for ultrasound (US)/photoacoustic (PA) imaging, but also as a synergistic agent for high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation. Sonosensitizer HMME nanoparticles were integrated into PLGA microcapsules with the double emulsion evaporation method. After characterization, the cell-killing and cell proliferation-inhibiting effects of HMME/PLGA microcapsules on ovarian cancer SKOV3 cells were assessed. The US/PA imaging-enhancing effects and synergistic effects on HIFU were evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. HMME/PLGA microcapsules were highly dispersed with well-defined spherical morphology (357 ± 0.72 nm in diameter, PDI = 0.932). Encapsulation efficiency and drug-loading efficiency were 58.33 ± 0.95% and 4.73 ± 0.15%, respectively. The HMME/PLGA microcapsules remarkably killed the SKOV3 cells and inhibited the cell proliferation, significantly enhanced the US/PA imaging results and greatly enhanced the HIFU ablation effects on ovarian cancer in nude mice by the HMME-mediated sono-dynamic chemistry therapy (SDT). HMME/PLGA microcapsules represent a potential multifunctional contrast agent for HIFU diagnosis and treatment, which might provide a novel strategy for the highly efficient imaging-guided non-invasive HIFU synergistic therapy for cancers by SDT in clinic.

Antibacterial activity of kecombrang flower extract (Nicolaia speciosa) microencapsulation with food additive materials formulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naufalin, R.; Rukmini, H. S.

2018-01-01

Kecombrang flower (Nicolaia speciosa) contains bioactive components of alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, steroids, saponins, and essential oils as potential antimicrobials. The use of antibacterials in the form of essential oils has constraints; therefore microencapsulation needs to be done to prevent damage to the bioactive components. Microencapsulation can prevent degradation due to radiation or oxygen, easy-mix with foodstuffs and also slow the occurrence of evaporation. This study aimed to determine the effect of types of kecombrang extract, the concentration of microcapsules in food additives (NaCl and sucrose), and concentration of flower extract in the microcapsules. This study used Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 18 treatment combinations and two replications. Factors studied were types of kecombrang flower extract of (semi polar and polar extract), Food Additive types (sucrose and NaCl), the concentration of microcapsules in food additive (0%; 15%; 30% w /v). The results showed that polar and non-polar extract microcapsules produced antibacterial activity of 7.178 mm and 7.145 respectively of Bacillus cereus bacteria, while Escherichia coli was 7.272 mm and 7.289 mm respectively. A 30 percent microcapsule concentration provides antibacterial activity with inhibiting zone of 7, 818 mm for B. cereus and 8,045 for E.coli. Food Additive of sucrose concentrations showed that microcapsules produced tend to be more effective in inhibiting the growth of E.coli and B. cereus bacteria than that of NaCl, with each inhibition zone of 7.499 mm and 7.357 mm

Experimental Study on Mechanical Properties and Porosity of Organic Microcapsules Based Self-Healing Cementitious Composite.

PubMed

Wang, Xianfeng; Sun, Peipei; Han, Ningxu; Xing, Feng

2017-01-01

Encapsulation of healing agents embedded in a material matrix has become one of the major approaches for achieving self-healing function in cementitious materials in recent years. A novel type of microcapsules based self-healing cementitious composite was developed in Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Durability for Marine Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University. In this study, both macro performance and the microstructure of the composite are investigated. The macro performance was evaluated by employing the compressive strength and the dynamic modulus, whereas the microstructure was represented by the pore structure parameters such as porosity, cumulative-pore volume, and average-pore diameter, which are significantly correlated to the pore-size distribution and the compressive strength. The results showed that both the compressive strength and the dynamic modulus, as well as the pore structure parameters such as porosity, cumulative-pore volume, and average-pore diameter of the specimen decrease to some extent with the amount of microcapsules. However, the self-healing rate and the recovery rate of the specimen performance and the pore-structure parameters increase with the amount of microcapsules. The results should confirm the self-healing function of microcapsules in the cementitious composite from macroscopic and microscopic viewpoints.

Simultaneous inhibition of acrylamide and hydroxymethylfurfural formation by sodium glutamate microcapsules in an asparagine-glucose model system.

PubMed

Wang, Zimeng; Wen, Chao; Shi, Xingbo; Lu, Dai; Deng, Jiehong; Deng, Fangming

2017-02-01

Inhibiting the formation of acrylamide (AA) and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) during food heating processes has attracted considerable investigative efforts due to potential health concerns associated with these compounds. The main purpose of this work is to demonstrate a strategy to simultaneously inhibit the formation of AA and HMF with sodium glutamate microcapsules selected to confirm the efficacy of this strategy. An asparagine-glucose aqueous model system was prepared containing free sodium glutamate and sodium glutamate microcapsules. Compared to adding free sodium glutamate, the maximum inhibition efficiency for AA and HMF was found to increase by addition of sodium glutamate microcapsules to 19.07 and 84.32%, respectively. Moreover, the kinetics of AA and HMF formation were studied in this model system. The AA inhibition efficiency significantly increased from 6.75 to 60.35% and the HMF inhibition efficiency significantly increased from 5.98 to 79.72% with increasing the reaction time from 25 to 40 min, indicating that the sodium glutamate microcapsules strategy proves to be far superior at prolonged heating times. These findings suggested that this inhibition strategy may provide promising characteristics for a variety of applications in food processing.

Experimental Study on Mechanical Properties and Porosity of Organic Microcapsules Based Self-Healing Cementitious Composite

PubMed Central

Wang, Xianfeng; Sun, Peipei; Han, Ningxu; Xing, Feng

2017-01-01

Encapsulation of healing agents embedded in a material matrix has become one of the major approaches for achieving self-healing function in cementitious materials in recent years. A novel type of microcapsules based self-healing cementitious composite was developed in Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Durability for Marine Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University. In this study, both macro performance and the microstructure of the composite are investigated. The macro performance was evaluated by employing the compressive strength and the dynamic modulus, whereas the microstructure was represented by the pore structure parameters such as porosity, cumulative-pore volume, and average-pore diameter, which are significantly correlated to the pore-size distribution and the compressive strength. The results showed that both the compressive strength and the dynamic modulus, as well as the pore structure parameters such as porosity, cumulative-pore volume, and average-pore diameter of the specimen decrease to some extent with the amount of microcapsules. However, the self-healing rate and the recovery rate of the specimen performance and the pore-structure parameters increase with the amount of microcapsules. The results should confirm the self-healing function of microcapsules in the cementitious composite from macroscopic and microscopic viewpoints. PMID:28772382

Flow-driven Assembly of Microcapsule Towers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shum, Henry; Balazs, Anna

2016-11-01

Large populations of the slime mold, Dictyostelium discoideum, are able to aggregate over a surface and collectively form a long, vertical stalk. Inspired by this biological behavior, we develop a synthetic mechanism for assembling tower-like structures using microcapsules as the building blocks. We accomplish this in simulations by generating a fluid flow field that draws microcapsules together along a surface and lifts them up at a central point. We considered a fluid flow generated by the local release of a chemical species from a patch on the surface. The concentration gradient of the diffusing chemical species causes radial diffusioosmotic flow along the solid surface toward the patch. Adhesive interactions keep the microcapsules attached to the surface as they are drawn together above the patch. To build a tower-like structure, some of the microcapsules must detach from the surface but remain attached to the rest of the cluster. The upward directed fluid flow above the patch then draws out the cluster into a tower shape. The final morphology of the aggregate structure depends on the flow field, the adhesive capsule-capsule and capsule-surface interaction strengths, and the sedimentation force on the capsules. Tuning these factors changes the structures that are produced.

Layer-by-layer assembled magnetic prednisolone microcapsules (MPC) for controlled and targeted drug release at rheumatoid arthritic joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prabu, Chakkarapani; Latha, Subbiah; Selvamani, Palanisamy; Ahrentorp, Fredrik; Johansson, Christer; Takeda, Ryoji; Takemura, Yasushi; Ota, Satoshi

2017-04-01

We report here in about the formulation and evaluation of Magnetic Prednisolone Microcapsules (MPC) developed in order to improve the therapeutic efficacy relatively at a low dose than the conventional dosage formulations by means of magnetic drug targeting and thus enhancing bioavailability at the arthritic joints. Prednisolone was loaded to poly (sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS) doped calcium carbonate microspheres confirmed by the decrease in surface area from 97.48 m2/g to 12.05 of m2/g by BET analysis. Adsorption with oppositely charged polyelectrolytes incorporated with iron oxide nanoparticles was confirmed through zeta analysis. Removal of calcium carbonate core yielded MPC with particle size of 3.48 μm, zeta potential of +29.7 mV was evaluated for its magnetic properties. Functional integrity of MPC was confirmed through FT-IR spectrum. Stability studies were performed at 25 °C±65% relative humidity for 60 days showed no considerable changes. Further the encapsulation efficiency of 63%, loading capacity of 18.2% and drug release of 88.3% for 36 h and its kinetics were also reported. The observed results justify the suitability of MPC for possible applications in the magnetic drug targeting for efficient therapy of rheumatoid arthritis.

Core Formation Process and Light Elements in the Planetary Core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohtani, E.; Sakairi, T.; Watanabe, K.; Kamada, S.; Sakamaki, T.; Hirao, N.

2015-12-01

Si, O, and S are major candidates for light elements in the planetary core. In the early stage of the planetary formation, the core formation started by percolation of the metallic liquid though silicate matrix because Fe-S-O and Fe-S-Si eutectic temperatures are significantly lower than the solidus of the silicates. Therefore, in the early stage of accretion of the planets, the eutectic liquid with S enrichment was formed and separated into the core by percolation. The major light element in the core at this stage will be sulfur. The internal pressure and temperature increased with the growth of the planets, and the metal component depleted in S was molten. The metallic melt contained both Si and O at high pressure in the deep magma ocean in the later stage. Thus, the core contains S, Si, and O in this stage of core formation. Partitioning experiments between solid and liquid metals indicate that S is partitioned into the liquid metal, whereas O is weakly into the liquid. Partitioning of Si changes with the metallic iron phases, i.e., fcc iron-alloy coexisting with the metallic liquid below 30 GPa is depleted in Si. Whereas hcp-Fe alloy above 30 GPa coexisting with the liquid favors Si. This contrast of Si partitioning provides remarkable difference in compositions of the solid inner core and liquid outer core among different terrestrial planets. Our melting experiments of the Fe-S-Si and Fe-O-S systems at high pressure indicate the core-adiabats in small planets, Mercury and Mars, are greater than the slope of the solidus and liquidus curves of these systems. Thus, in these planets, the core crystallized at the top of the liquid core and 'snowing core' formation occurred during crystallization. The solid inner core is depleted in both Si and S whereas the liquid outer core is relatively enriched in Si and S in these planets. On the other hand, the core adiabats in large planets, Earth and Venus, are smaller than the solidus and liquidus curves of the systems. The inner core of these planets crystallized at the center of the core and it has the relatively Si rich inner core and the S enriched outer core. Based on melting and solid-liquid partitioning, the equation of state, and sound velocity of iron-light element alloys, we examined the plausible distribution of light elements in the liquid outer and solid inner cores of the terrestrial planets.

Microencapsulation of rifampicin: A technique to preserve the mechanical properties of bone cement.

PubMed

Sanz-Ruiz, Pablo; Carbó-Laso, Esther; Del Real-Romero, Juan Carlos; Arán-Ais, Francisca; Ballesteros-Iglesias, Yolanda; Paz-Jiménez, Eva; Sánchez-Navarro, Magdalena; Pérez-Limiñana, María Ángeles; Vaquero-Martín, Javier

2018-01-01

Two-stage exchange with antibiotic-loaded bone cement spacers remains the gold standard for chronic periprosthetic joint infection (PJI). Rifampicin is highly efficient on stationary-phase staphylococci in biofilm; however, its addition to PMMA to manufacture spacers prevents polymerization and reduces mechanical properties. Isolation of rifampicin during polymerization by microencapsulation could allow manufacturing rifampicin-loaded bone cement maintaining elution and mechanical properties. Microcapsules of rifampicin with alginate, polyhydroxybutyratehydroxyvalerate (PHBV), ethylcellulose and stearic acid (SA) were synthesized. Alginate and PHBV microcapsules were added to bone cement and elution, compression, bending, hardness, setting time and microbiological tests were performed. Repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc test were performed, considering a p < 0.05 as statistical significance. Bone cement specimens containing alginate microcapsules eluted more rifampicin than PHBV microcapsules or non-encapsulated rifampicin over time (p < 0.012). Microencapsulation of rifampicin allowed PMMA to preserve mechanical properties in compression and bending tests. Cement with alginate microcapsules showed similar behavior in hardness tests to control cement over the study period (73 ± 1.68H D ). PMMA with alginate microcapsules exhibited the largest zones of inhibition in microbiological tests. Statistically significant differences in mean diameters of zones of inhibition between PMMA loaded with alginate-rifampicin (p = 0.0001) and alginate-PHBV microcapsules (p = 0.0001) were detected. Rifampicin microencapsulation with alginate is the best choice to introduce rifampicin in PMMA preserving mechanical properties, setting time, elution, and antimicrobial properties. The main applicability of this study is the opportunity for obtaining rifampicin-loaded PMMA by microencapsulation of rifampicin in alginate microparticles, achieving high doses of rifampicin in infected tissues, increasing the successful of PJI treatment. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:459-466, 2018. © 2017 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A comparative study on liquid core formulation on the diameter on the alginate capsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ong, Hui-Yen; Lee, Boon-Beng; Radzi, AkmalHadi Ma'; Zakaria, Zarina; Chan, Eng-Seng

2015-08-01

Liquid core capsule has vast application in biotechnology related industries such as pharmaceutical, medical, agriculture and food. Formulation of different types of capsule was important to determine the performance of the capsule. Generally, the liquid core capsule with different formulations generated different size of capsule.Therefore, the aim of this project is to investigate the effect of different liquid core solution formulations on the diameter of capsule. The capsule produced by extruding liquid core solutions into sodium alginate solution. Three types of liquid core solutions (chitosan, xanthan gum, polyethylene glycol (PEG)) were investigated. The results showed that there is significant change in capsule diameter despite in different types of liquid core solution were used and a series of capsule range in diameter of 3.1 mm to 4.5 mm were produced. Alginate capsule with chitosan formulation appeared to be the largest capsule among all.

Non-Toxic, Self Cleaning Silicone Fouling Release Coatings

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-10-07

Attempts to microencapsulate silicone oils for enhanced fouling release coatings with thermoset wall structures were unsuccessful: Microcapsule ...filled coatings failed abrasion resistance tests and had mediocre fouling release properties, despite having controlled release rates. Microcapsules with

DNA Microcapsule for Photo-Triggered Drug Release Systems.

PubMed

Kamiya, Yukiko; Yamada, Yoshinobu; Muro, Takahiro; Matsuura, Kazunori; Asanuma, Hiroyuki

2017-12-19

In this study we constructed spherical photo-responsive microcapsules composed of three photo-switchable DNA strands. These strands first formed a three-way junction (TWJ) motif that further self-assembled to form microspheres through hybridization of the sticky-end regions of each branch. To serve as the photo-switch, multiple unmodified azobenzene (Azo) or 2,6-dimethyl-4-(methylthio)azobenzene (SDM-Azo) were introduced into the sticky-end regions via a d-threoninol linker. The DNA capsule structure deformed upon trans-to-cis isomerization of Azo or SDM-Azo induced by specific light irradiation. In addition, photo-triggered release of encapsulated small molecules from the DNA microcapsule was successfully achieved. Moreover, we demonstrated that photo-triggered release of doxorubicin caused cytotoxicity to cultured cells. This biocompatible photo-responsive microcapsule has potential application as a photo-controlled drug-release system. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

The study of a fluorescent biosensor based on polyelectrolyte microcapsules with encapsulated glucose oxidase

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kazakova, L. I.; Sirota, N. P.; Sirota, T. V.; Shabarchina, L. I.

2017-09-01

A fluorescent biosensor is synthesized and described. The biosensor consists of polyelectrolyte microcapsules with glucose oxidase (GOx) entrapped in the cavities and an oxygen-sensitive fluorescent indicator Ru(dpp) immobilized in shells, where Ru(dpp) is tris(4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline)ruthenium(II) dichloride. The theoretical activity of the encapsulated GOx and the effect storage time and medium composition have on the stability of sensor microcapsules are determined from polarographic measurements. No change in the activity of the encapsulated enzyme and or its loss to the storage medium are detected over the test period. The dispersion medium (water or a phosphate buffer) are shown to have no effect on the activity of microcapsules with immobilized GOx. The described optical sensor could be used as an alternative to electrochemical sensors for in vitro determination of glucose in the clinically important range of concentrations (up to 10 mmol/L).

pH-sensitive poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticle composite microcapsules for oral delivery of insulin

PubMed Central

Sun, Shaoping; Liang, Na; Yamamoto, Hiromitsu; Kawashima, Yoshiaki; Cui, Fude; Yan, Pengfei

2015-01-01

This study proposes a new concept of pH-sensitive poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticle composite microcapsules for oral delivery of insulin. Firstly, insulin–sodium oleate complex was prepared by the hydrophobic ion pairing method and then encapsulated into PLGA nanoparticles by the emulsion solvent diffusion method. In order to reduce the burst release of insulin from PLGA nanoparticles and deliver insulin to specific gastrointestinal regions, hence to enhance bioavailability of insulin, the PLGA nanoparticles were further encapsulated into Eudragit® FS 30D to prepare PLGA nanoparticle composite microcapsules by organic spray-drying method. The preparation was evaluated in vitro and in vivo, and the absorption mechanism was discussed. The in vitro drug release studies revealed that the drug release was pH dependent, and the in vivo results demonstrated that the formulation of PLGA nanoparticle composite microcapsules was an effective candidate for oral insulin delivery. PMID:25999713

pH-sensitive poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticle composite microcapsules for oral delivery of insulin.

PubMed

Sun, Shaoping; Liang, Na; Yamamoto, Hiromitsu; Kawashima, Yoshiaki; Cui, Fude; Yan, Pengfei

2015-01-01

This study proposes a new concept of pH-sensitive poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticle composite microcapsules for oral delivery of insulin. Firstly, insulin-sodium oleate complex was prepared by the hydrophobic ion pairing method and then encapsulated into PLGA nanoparticles by the emulsion solvent diffusion method. In order to reduce the burst release of insulin from PLGA nanoparticles and deliver insulin to specific gastrointestinal regions, hence to enhance bioavailability of insulin, the PLGA nanoparticles were further encapsulated into Eudragit(®) FS 30D to prepare PLGA nanoparticle composite microcapsules by organic spray-drying method. The preparation was evaluated in vitro and in vivo, and the absorption mechanism was discussed. The in vitro drug release studies revealed that the drug release was pH dependent, and the in vivo results demonstrated that the formulation of PLGA nanoparticle composite microcapsules was an effective candidate for oral insulin delivery.

Photopolymerization of complex emulsions with irregular shapes fabricated by multiplex coaxial flow focusing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Qiang; Yang, Chaoyu; Yang, Jianxin; Huang, Fangsheng; Liu, Guangli; Zhu, Zhiqiang; Si, Ting; Xu, Ronald X.

2018-02-01

We fabricate complex emulsions with irregular shapes in the microscale by a simple but effective multiplex coaxial flow focusing process. A multiphase cone-jet structure is steadily formed, and the compound liquid jet eventually breaks up into Janus microdroplets due to the perturbations propagating along the jet interfaces. The microdroplet shapes can be exclusively controlled by interfacial tensions of adjacent phases. Crescent-moon-shaped microparticles and microcapsules with designated structural characteristics are further produced under ultraviolet light of photopolymerization after removing one hemisphere of the Janus microdroplets. These complex emulsions have potential applications in bioscience, food, functional materials, and controlled drug delivery.

CO2 laser debonding of a ceramic bracket bonded with orthodontic adhesive containing thermal expansion microcapsules.

PubMed

Saito, Ayano; Namura, Yasuhiro; Isokawa, Keitaro; Shimizu, Noriyoshi

2015-02-01

We have been studying an easy bracket debonding method using heating of an orthodontic adhesive containing thermal expansion microcapsules. However, heating with a high-temperature heater brings obvious risks of burns around the oral cavity. Thus, we examined safer and more effective bracket debonding methods. The purpose of this in vitro study was to examine the reduction in debonding strength and the time taken using a bracket bonded with an orthodontic adhesive containing thermal expansion microcapsules and a CO2 laser as the heating method while maintaining safety. Ceramic brackets were bonded to bovine permanent mandibular incisors using bonding materials containing various microcapsule contents (0, 30, and 40 wt%), and the bond strengths were measured after laser irradiation for 4, 5, and 6 s and compared with nonlaser-treated groups. Subsequently, the temperature in the pulp chamber during laser irradiation was measured. After laser irradiation for 5 or 6 s, the bond strengths of the adhesive containing 40 wt% microcapsules were significantly decreased to ∼0.40 - 0.48-fold (4.6-5.5 MPa) compared with the nonlaser groups. The mean temperature rise of the pulp chamber was 4.3 °C with laser irradiation for 6 s, which was less than that required to induce pulp damage. Based on these results, we conclude that the combined use of a CO2 laser and an orthodontic adhesive containing thermal expansion microcapsules can be effective and safe for debonding ceramic brackets with less enamel damage or tooth pain.

Model for Microcapsule Drug Release with Ultrasound-Activated Enhancement.

PubMed

Tsao, Nadia H; Hall, Elizabeth A H

2017-11-14

Microbubbles and microcapsules of silane-polycaprolactone (SiPCL) have been filled with a fluorescent acridium salt (lucigenin) as a model for a drug-loaded delivery vehicle. The uptake and delivery were studied and compared with similar microbubbles and microcapsules of silica/mercaptosilica (S/M/S). Positively charged lucigenin was encapsulated through an electrostatic mechanism, following a Type I Langmuir isotherm as expected, but with an additional multilayer uptake that leads to a much higher loading for the SiPCL system (∼280 μg/2.4 × 10 9 microcapsules compared with ∼135 μg/2.4 × 10 9 microcapsules for S/M/S). Whereas the lucigenin release from the S/M/S bubbles and capsules loaded below the solubility limit is consistent with diffusion from a monolithic structure, the SiPCL structures show distinct release patterns; the Weibull function predicts a general trend for diffusion from normal Euclidean space at short times tending toward diffusion out of fractal spaces with increasing time. As a slow release system, the dissolution time (T d ) increases from 1 to 2 days for the S/M/S and for the low concentration, loaded SiPCl vehicles to ∼10 days for the high loaded microcapsules. However, T d can be reduced on insonation to 2 days, indicating the potential to gain control over the local enhanced release with ultrasound. This was tested for a docetaxel model and its effect on C4-2B prostate cancer cells, showing improved cell toxicity for concentrations below the normal EC 50 in solution.

Self-sealing of thermal fatigue and mechanical damage in fiber-reinforced composite materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moll, Jericho L.

Fiber reinforced composite tanks provide a promising method of storage for liquid oxygen and hydrogen for aerospace applications. The inherent thermal fatigue of these vessels leads to the formation of microcracks, which allow gas phase leakage across the tank walls. In this dissertation, self-healing functionality is imparted to a structural composite to effectively seal microcracks induced by both mechanical and thermal loading cycles. Two different microencapsulated healing chemistries are investigated in woven glass fiber/epoxy and uni-weave carbon fiber/epoxy composites. Self-healing of mechanically induced damage was first studied in a room temperature cured plain weave E-glass/epoxy composite with encapsulated dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) monomer and wax protected Grubbs' catalyst healing components. A controlled amount of microcracking was introduced through cyclic indentation of opposing surfaces of the composite. The resulting damage zone was proportional to the indentation load. Healing was assessed through the use of a pressure cell apparatus to detect nitrogen flow through the thickness direction of the damaged composite. Successful healing resulted in a perfect seal, with no measurable gas flow. The effect of DCPD microcapsule size (51 microm and 18 microm) and concentration (0--12.2 wt%) on the self-sealing ability was investigated. Composite specimens with 6.5 wt% 51 microm capsules sealed 67% of the time, compared to 13% for the control panels without healing components. A thermally stable, dual microcapsule healing chemistry comprised of silanol terminated poly(dimethyl siloxane) plus a crosslinking agent and a tin catalyst was employed to allow higher composite processing temperatures. The microcapsules were incorporated into a satin weave E-glass fiber/epoxy composite processed at 120°C to yield a glass transition temperature of 127°C. Self-sealing ability after mechanical damage was assessed for different microcapsule sizees (25 microm and 42 microm) and concentrations (0--11 vol%). Incorporating 9 vol% 42 microm capsules or 11 vol% 25 microm capsules into the composite matrix leads to 100% of the samples sealing. The effect of microcapsule concentration on the short beam strength, storage modulus, and glass transition temperature of the composite specimens was also investigated. The thermally stable tin catalyzed poly(dimethyl siloxane) healing chemistry was then integrated into a [0/90]s uniweave carbon fiber/epoxy composite. Thermal cycling (-196°C to 35°C) of these specimens lead to the formation of microcracks, over time, formed a percolating crack network from one side of the composite to the other, resulting in a gas permeable specimen. Crack damage accumulation and sample permeability was monitored with number of cycles for both self-healing and traditional non-healing composites. Crack accumulation occurred at a similar rate for all sample types tested. A 63% increase in lifetime extension was achieved for the self-healing specimens over traditional non-healing composites.

Reversible polyelectrolyte capsules as carriers for protein delivery.

PubMed

Anandhakumar, S; Nagaraja, V; Raichur, Ashok M

2010-07-01

A reversible drug delivery system based on spontaneous deposition of a model protein into preformed microcapsules has been demonstrated for protein delivery applications. Layer-by-Layer assembly of poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) and poly(methacrylic acid) (PMA) onto polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) doped CaCO3 particles, followed by core removal yielded intact hollow microcapsules having a unique property to induce spontaneous deposition of bovine serum albumin (BSA) at pH below its isoelectric point of 4.8, where it was positively charged. These capsules showed reversible pH dependent open and closed states to fluorescence labeled dextran (FITC-Dextran) and BSA (FITC-BSA). The loading capacity of BSA increased from 9.1 x 10(7) to 2.03 x 10(8) molecules per capsule with decrease in pH from 4.5 to 3. The loading of BSA-FITC was observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), which showed homogeneous distribution of protein inside the capsule. Efficient loading of BSA was further confirmed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The interior capsule concentration was as high as 209 times the feeding concentration when the feeding concentration was increased from 1 to 10 mg/ml. The deposition was initially controlled by spontaneous loading mechanism at lower BSA concentration followed by diffusion controlled loading at higher concentration; which decreased the loading efficiency from 35% to 7%. Circular dichroism (CD) measurements and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed that there was no significant change in conformation of released BSA in comparison with native BSA. The release was initially burst in the first 0.5 h and sustained up to 5 h. The hollow capsules were found to be biocompatible with mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells during in vitro cell culture studies. Thus these pH sensitive polyelectrolyte microcapsules may offer a promising delivery system for water soluble proteins and peptides. 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fabrication strategy for amphiphilic microcapsules with narrow size distribution by premix membrane emulsification.

PubMed

Wei, Yi; Wang, Yuxia; Wang, Lianyan; Hao, Dongxia; Ma, Guanghui

2011-10-15

Amphiphilic co-polymer, which can maintain the stability of proteins and increase the protein loading efficiency, is considered as an exploring-worthy biodegrade polymer for drug delivery. However, amphiphilic microcapsules prepared by conventional methods, such like mechanical stirring and spray-drying methods, exhibit broad size distributions due to its hydrophilic sequences, leading to poor reproducibility. In this study, we employed poly(monomethoxypoly ethylene glycol-co-D,L-lactide) (mPEG-PLA, PELA), one of common amphiphilic polymers, as model to focus on investigating the process parameters and mechanisms to prepare PELA microcapsules with narrow size distribution and regular sphericity by combining premix membrane emulsification and double emulsion technique. The coarse double emulsion with broad size distribution was repeatedly pressed through Shirasu Porous Glass (SPG) membrane with relatively high pressure to form the fine emulsion with narrow size distribution. Then, the microcapsules with narrow size distribution can be obtained by solvent extraction method. It was found that it was more difficult to obtain PELA microcapsules with narrow size distribution and smooth surface due to its amphiphilic property, compared with the cases of PLA and PLGA. The smooth surface morphology was found to be related to several factors including internal water phase with less volume, slower stirring rate during solidification and using ethyl acetate as oil phase. It was also found that mass ratio of hydrophilic mPEG, stabilizer PVA concentration in external water phase and transmembrane pressure played important role on the distribution of microcapsules size. The suitable preparation conditions were determined as follows: for the membrane with pore size of 2.8 μm, the mass ratio of PLA/mPEG was 19:1, volume ratio of W(1)/O was 1:10 and O/W(2) was 1:5, PVA concentration (w/v) was 1.0%, magnetic stirring rate during solidification was 60 rpm and 300 kPa was chosen as transmembrane pressure. There was a linear relationship between the diameter of microcapsules and the pore size of the membranes. Finally, by manipulating the process parameters, PELA microcapsules with narrow size distributions (coefficient of variation was less than 15%), smooth morphology and various sizes, were obtained. Most importantly, the key factors affecting fabrication have been revealed and mechanisms were illustrated in detail, which would shed light on the research of amphiphilic polymer formulation. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Multi-Drug-Loaded Microcapsules with Controlled Release for Management of Parkinson's Disease.

PubMed

Baek, Jong-Suep; Choo, Chee Chong; Qian, Cheng; Tan, Nguan Soon; Shen, Zexiang; Loo, Say Chye Joachim

2016-07-01

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive disease of the nervous system, and is currently managed through commercial tablets that do not sufficiently enable controlled, sustained release capabilities. It is hypothesized that a drug delivery system that provides controlled and sustained release of PD drugs would afford better management of PD. Hollow microcapsules composed of poly-l-lactide (PLLA) and poly (caprolactone) (PCL) are prepared through a modified double-emulsion technique. They are loaded with three PD drugs, i.e., levodopa (LD), carbidopa (CD), and entacapone (ENT), at a ratio of 4:1:8, similar to commercial PD tablets. LD and CD are localized in both the hollow cavity and PLLA/PCL shell, while ENT is localized in the PLLA/PCL shell. Release kinetics of hydrophobic ENT is observed to be relatively slow as compared to the other hydrophilic drugs. It is further hypothesized that encapsulating ENT into PCL as a surface coating onto these microcapsules can aid in accelerating its release. Now, these spray-coated hollow microcapsules exhibit similar release kinetics, according to Higuchi's rate, for all three drugs. The results suggest that multiple drug encapsulation of LD, CD, and ENT in gastric floating microcapsules could be further developed for in vivo evaluation for the management of PD. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Modeling the interactions between compliant microcapsules and pillars in microchannels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Guangdong; Alexeev, Alexander; Kumacheva, Eugenia; Balazs, Anna C.

2007-07-01

Using a computational model, we investigate the motion of microcapsules inside a microchannel that encompasses a narrow constriction. The microcapsules are composed of a compliant, elastic shell and an encapsulated fluid; these fluid-filled shells model synthetic polymeric microcapsules or biological cells (e.g., leukocytes). Driven by an imposed flow, the capsules are propelled along the microchannel and through the constricted region, which is formed by two pillars that lie in registry, extending from the top and bottom walls of the channels. The tops of these pillars (facing into the microchannel) are modified to exhibit either a neutral or an attractive interaction with the microcapsules. The pillars (and constriction) model topological features that can be introduced into microfluidic devices or the physical and chemical heterogeneities that are inherently present in biological vessels. To simulate the behavior of this complex system, we employ a hybrid method that integrates the lattice Boltzmann model (LBM) for fluid dynamics and the lattice spring model (LSM) for the micromechanics of elastic solids. Through this LBM/LSM technique, we probe how the capsule's stiffness and interaction with the pillars affect its passage through the chambers. The results yield guidelines for regulating the movement of microcarriers in microfluidic systems and provide insight into the flow properties of biological cells in capillaries.

Dark chocolate added with high oleic peanut oil microcapsule.

PubMed

Agibert, Silvia A C; Lannes, Suzana C da S

2018-04-26

On the way of market demand for healthier indulgent food products, the aim of this study was to develop the industrial production viability for dark chocolate with microcapsules of high oleic peanut oil. The microcapsules of high oleic peanut oil were added to a control formulation using variations of mixing time. The chocolates presented rheology characterized by pseudoplastic behavior adjusted to the Casson model (r> 0.98) and calorimetric behavior indicating melting onset (21°C), peak melting (32°C) and melting end (41°C); caramelization peak (183°C); carbonization peak (237°C), being considered thermal stable. The mixing time and the amount of microcapsules added to the control chocolate did not significantly influence the flow limit (11.09 ± 1.73 Pa) and the physical characteristics of the chocolate: pH (6.74 ± 0.14), maximum particle size (0.019 ± 0.001 mm), water activity (0.358 ± 0.023) and brittleness (18.61 ± 3.74 N). However, an addition of microcapsules of high oleic peanut oil significantly increased the chocolate whiteness index, thixotropy and Casson's plastic viscosity, although it did not have a significant influence of the mixing time. The products obtained have a desired quality and physical properties, being suitable for industrial production. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hopmann, Ch., E-mail: kerschbaum@ikv.rwth-aachen.de; Kerschbaum, M., E-mail: kerschbaum@ikv.rwth-aachen.de; Küsters, K., E-mail: kerschbaum@ikv.rwth-aachen.de

The evaluation of damages caused during processing, assembly or usage of fibre reinforced plastics is still a challenge. The use of inspection technology like ultrasonic scanning enables a detailed damage analysis but requires high investments and trained staff. Therefore, the visual inspection method is widely used. A drawback of this method is the difficult identification of barely visible damages, which can already be detrimental for the structural integrity. Therefore an approach is undertaken to integrate microencapsulated dyes into the laminates of fibre reinforced plastic parts to highlight damages on the surface. In case of a damage, the microcapsules rupture whichmore » leads to a release of the dye and a visible bruise on the part surface. To enable a wide application spectrum for this technology the microcapsules must be processable without rupturing with established manufacturing processes for fibre reinforced plastics. Therefore the incorporation of microcapsules in the filament winding, prepreg autoclave and resin transfer moulding (RTM) process is investigated. The results show that the use of a carrier medium is a feasible way to incorporate the microcapsules into the laminate for all investigated manufacturing processes. Impact testing of these laminates shows a bruise formation on the specimen surface which correlates with the impact energy level. This indicates a microcapsule survival during processing and shows the potential of this technology for damage detection and characterization.« less

Layer-by-layer polyelectrolyte-polyester hybrid microcapsules for encapsulation and delivery of hydrophobic drugs.

PubMed

Luo, Rongcong; Venkatraman, Subbu S; Neu, Björn

2013-07-08

A two-step process is developed to form layer-by-layer (LbL) polyelectrolyte microcapsules, which are able to encapsulate and deliver hydrophobic drugs. Spherical porous calcium carbonate (CaCO3) microparticles were used as templates and coated with a poly(lactic acid-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) layer containing hydrophobic compounds via an in situ precipitation gelling process. PLGA layers that precipitated from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) had a lower loading and smoother surface than those precipitated from acetone. The difference may be due to different viscosities and solvent exchange dynamics. In the second step, the successful coating of multilayer polyelectrolytes poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) and poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS) onto the PLGA coated CaCO3 microparticles was confirmed with AFM and ζ-potential studies. The release of a model hydrophobic drug, ibuprofen, from these hybrid microcapsules with different numbers of PAH/PSS layers was investigated. It was found that the release of ibuprofen decreases with increasing layer numbers demonstrating the possibility to control the release of ibuprofen with these novel hybrid microcapsules. Besides loading of hydrophobic drugs, the interior of these microcapsules can also be loaded with hydrophilic compounds and functional nanoparticles as demonstrated by loading with Fe3O4 nanoparticles, forming magnetically responsive dual drug releasing carriers.

Effect of nonionic compound emulsifiers Tween80 and Span80 on the properties of microencapsulated phase change materials.

PubMed

Zhan, Shiping; Zhou, Zhiyi; Wang, Weijing; Zhao, Qicheng; Hou, Weimin

2014-01-01

In this article, the nonionic compound emulsifiers Tween80 and Span80 were used to prepare microcapsules containing phase change materials (microPCMs) with melamine-formaldehyde (MF) shells by in situ polymerization method. The effects of compound emulsifiers Tween80 and Span80 on the structure, morphologies and properties of microPCMs containing paraffin were studied. SEM morphological investigation suggests that a complex of Tween80 and Span80 as emulsifiers are optimal for the fabrication of microPCMs in this study compared to Tween60 or OP-10. The diameter distributions of microPCMs synthesized with different amounts of compound emulsifiers are uniform, whereas compound emulsifiers' amount affect the mean diameter of microPCMs decreasing from 5.34 to 3.05 µm. These microPCMs with the core/shell weight ratio 3/1 have smoother surface and a higher core content of 68.7% than other core/shell ratio. Anti-osmosis measurements indicate that microPCMs have good compactness and stable performance compared to those synthesized by one type of emulsifier.

Ion release and in vitro enamel fluoride uptake associated with pit and fissure sealants containing microencapsulated remineralizing agents.

PubMed

Burbank, Brant D; Cooper, Ryan L; Kava, Alyssa; Hartjes, Jennifer M; McHale, William A; Latta, Mark A; Gross, Stephen M

2017-04-01

To determine if pit-and-fissure sealants with microencapsulated remineralizing agents with sustained release of fluoride, calcium and phosphate ions could promote enamel fluoride uptake by demineralized tooth structure. Sealants that contained 5 w/w% microcapsules with aqueous solutions of 5M Ca(NO3)2 or 0.8M NaF or 6.0M K2HPO4 or a mixture of all three were prepared. Ion release profiles were measured as a function of time. Enamel fluoride uptake by demineralized tooth structure was determined. Sustained release of fluoride, calcium and phosphate ions from a sealant was demonstrated. Fluoride uptake by demineralized enamel was significantly increased compared to a control sealant manufactured without microcapsules (P< 0.01). Bovine enamel that contained 2.2±2.1 µg F/g of enamel prior to exposure to a sealant without microcapsules had 2.3±0.5 after 90 days. Enamel exposed to sealant with 5w/% NaF microcapsules went from 3.5±3.5 µg F/g of enamel prior to exposure to 148±76 after 90 days. Enamel exposed to sealant with 2 w/w% NaF, 2 w/w% Ca(NO3)2 and 1 w/w% K2HPO4 microcapsules went from 1.7±0.7 µg F/g of enamel prior to exposure to 190±137 after 90 days. Sealants with encapsulated remineralizing agents were capable of releasing biologically available fluoride, calcium, and phosphate ions. Incorporation of these microcapsules in pit and fissure sealants is a promising method for remineralization determined by enamel fluoride uptake measurements.

Larvicidal activity of Copaifera sp. (Leguminosae) oleoresin microcapsules against Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) larvae.

PubMed

Kanis, Luiz Alberto; Prophiro, Josiane Somariva; Vieira, Edna da Silva; Nascimento, Mariane Pires do; Zepon, Karine Modolon; Kulkamp-Guerreiro, Irene Clemes; Silva, Onilda Santos da

2012-03-01

Studies have demonstrated the potential of Copaifera sp. oleoresin to control Aedes aegypti proliferation. However, the low water solubility is a factor that limits its applicability. Thus, the micro- or nanoencapsulation could be an alternative to allow its use in larval breeding places. The purpose of this study was to evaluate if achievable lethal concentrations could be obtained from Copaifera sp. oleoresin incorporated into polymers (synthetic or natural) and, mainly, if it can be sustained in the residual activity compared to the pure oil when tested against the A. aegypti larvae. Microcapsules were prepared by the process of emulsification/precipitation using the polymers of cellulose acetate (CA) and poly(ethylene-co-methyl acrylate) (PEMA), yielding four types of microcapsules: MicPEMA₁ and MicPEMA₂, and MicCA₁ and MicCA₂. When using only Copaifera sp. oleoresin, the larvicidal activity was observed at concentrations of LC₅₀ = 48 mg/L and LC₉₉ = 149 mg/L. For MicPEMA₁, the LC₅₀ and LC₉₉ were 78 and 389 mg/L, respectively. Using MicPEMA₂, the LC₅₀ was 120 mg/L and LC₉₉ > 500 mg/L. For microcapsules MicCA₁ and MicCA₂, the LC₅₀ and LC₉₉ were 42, 164, 140, and 398 mg/L, respectively. For a dose of 150 mg/L of pure oleoresin, the residual activity remained above 20% for 10 days, while the dose of 400 mg/L remained above 40% for 21 days. The MicPEMA₁ microcapsules showed a loss in residual activity up to the first day; however, it remained in activity above 40% for 17 days. The microcapsules of MicCA₁ showed similar LC₅₀ of pure oil with 150 mg/L.

A New Fluidized Bed Bioreactor Based on Diversion-Type Microcapsule Suspension for Bioartificial Liver Systems

PubMed Central

Li, Jianzhou; Yu, Liang; Chen, Ermei; Zhu, Danhua; Zhang, Yimin; Li, LanJuan

2016-01-01

A fluidized bed bioreactor containing encapsulated hepatocytes may be a valuable alternative to a hollow fiber bioreactor for achieving the improved mass transfer and scale-up potential necessary for clinical use. However, a conventional fluidized bed bioreactor (FBB) operating under high perfusion velocity is incapable of providing the desired performance due to the resulting damage to cell-containing microcapsules and large void volume. In this study, we developed a novel diversion-type microcapsule-suspension fluidized bed bioreactor (DMFBB). The void volume in the bioreactor and stability of alginate/chitosan microcapsules were investigated under different flow rates. Cell viability, synthesis and metabolism functions, and expression of metabolizing enzymes at transcriptional levels in an encapsulated hepatocyte line (C3A cells) were determined. The void volume was significantly less in the novel bioreactor than in the conventional FBB. In addition, the microcapsules were less damaged in the DMFBB during the fluidization process as reflected by the results for microcapsule retention rates, swelling, and breakage. Encapsulated C3A cells exhibited greater viability and CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 activity in the DMFBB than in the FBB, although the increases in albumin and urea synthesis were less prominent. The transcription levels of several CYP450-related genes and an albumin-related gene were dramatically greater in cells in the DMFBB than in those in the FBB. Taken together, our results suggest that the DMFBB is a promising alternative for the design of a bioartificial liver system based on a fluidized bed bioreactor with encapsulated hepatocytes for treating patients with acute hepatic failure or other severe liver diseases. PMID:26840840

A review of the preparation and application of flavour and essential oils microcapsules based on complex coacervation technology.

PubMed

Xiao, Zuobing; Liu, Wanlong; Zhu, Guangyong; Zhou, Rujun; Niu, Yunwei

2014-06-01

This paper briefly introduces the preparation and application of flavour and essential oils microcapsules based on complex coacervation technology. The conventional encapsulating agents of oppositely charged proteins and polysaccharides that are used for microencapsulation of flavours and essential oils are reviewed along with the recent advances in complex coacervation methods. Proteins extracted from animal-derived products (gelatin, whey proteins, silk fibroin) and from vegetables (soy proteins, pea proteins), and polysaccharides such as gum Arabic, pectin, chitosan, agar, alginate, carrageenan and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose are described in depth. In recent decades, flavour and essential oils microcapsules have found numerous potential practical applications in food, textiles, agriculturals and pharmaceuticals. In this paper, the different coating materials and their application are discussed in detail. Consequently, the information obtained allows criteria to be established for selecting a method for the preparation of microcapsules according to their advantages, limitations and behaviours as carriers of flavours and essential oils. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry.

Modeling microcapsules that communicate through nanoparticles to undergo self-propelled motion.

PubMed

Usta, O Berk; Alexeev, Alexander; Zhu, Guangdong; Balazs, Anna C

2008-03-01

Using simulation and theory, we demonstrate how nanoparticles can be harnessed to regulate the interaction between two initially stationary microcapsules on a surface and promote the self-propelled motion of these capsules along the substrate. The first microcapsule, the "signaling" capsule, encases nanoparticles, which diffuse from the interior of this carrier and into the surrounding solution; the second capsule is the "target" capsule, which is initially devoid of particles. Nanoparticles released from the signaling capsule modify the underlying substrate and thereby initiate the motion of the target capsule. The latter motion activates hydrodynamic interactions, which trigger the signaling capsule to follow the target. The continued release of the nanoparticles sustains the motion of both capsules. In effect, the system constitutes a synthetic analogue of biological cell signaling and our findings can shed light on fundamental physical forces that control interactions between cells. Our findings can also yield guidelines for manipulating the interactions of synthetic microcapsules in microfluidic devices.

Fabrication of redox-responsive magnetic protein microcapsules from hen egg white by the sonochemical method.

PubMed

Zhong, Shuangling; Cui, Xuejun; Tian, Fangyuan

2015-01-01

Redox-responsive magnetic protein microcapsules with Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) encapsulated inside have been obtained using a facile, cost-effective and fast sonochemical method from hen egg white proteins. Such prepared redox-responsive magnetic hen egg white protein microcapsules (MHEWPMCs) could be easily manipulated to do magnetic-guided targeting delivery. The synchronous loading of the hydrophobic dye Coumarin 6 as a model of drug into MHEWPMCs was readily achieved during the fabrication of MHEWPMCs by dissolving them into the oil phase before ultrasonication. TEM images indicated that Fe3O4 MNPs were encapsulated in MHEWPMCs. Confocal laser scanning microscopic images indicated that the dye was distributed evenly in the MHEWPMCs and no leakage of dye from the MHEWPMCs was observed due to the protection of protein shells. The MHEWPMCs are potential candidates as attractive carriers for drug targeting delivery and stimuli-responsive release due to their magnetic and redox responsiveness of the disulfide in the microcapsule shells.

Enhanced oxidative stability of fish oil by encapsulating in culled banana resistant starch-soy protein isolate based microcapsules in functional bakery products.

PubMed

Nasrin, Taslima Ayesha Aktar; Anal, Anil Kumar

2015-08-01

Oil in water emulsions were produced by the mixture of culled banana resistant starch (CBRS) & soy protein isolate (SPI), mixture of Hylon VII & SPI and SPI with 7.5 and 5 % (w/w) Menhaden fish oil. The emulsions were further freeze- dried obtaining 33 and 50 % oil load microcapsules. The range of particles diameter was 4.11 to 7.25 μm and viscosity was 34.6 to 146.48 cP of the emulsions. Compressibility index (CI), Hasner ratio (HR) and angle of repose (AR) was significantly (p < 0.01) lower of the microcapsules made with starch and protein (CBRS & SPI and Hylon VII & SPI) than that made with protein (SPI) only. Microcapsules composed of CBRS & SPI with 33 % oil load had maximum microencapsulation efficiency (82.49 %) and highest oxidative stability. Muffin made with emulsions containing mixture of CBRS & SPI exhibited less fishy flavour than that containing mixture of Hylon VII & SPI.

Controlling the strontium-doping in calcium phosphate microcapsules through yeast-regulated biomimetic mineralization.

PubMed

Huang, Miaojun; Li, Tianjie; Pan, Ting; Zhao, Naru; Yao, Yongchang; Zhai, Zhichen; Zhou, Jiaan; Du, Chang; Wang, Yingjun

2016-10-01

Yeast cells have controllable biosorption on metallic ions during metabolism. However, few studies were dedicated to using yeast-regulated biomimetic mineralization process to control the strontium-doped positions in calcium phosphate microcapsules. In this study, the yeast cells were allowed to pre-adsorb strontium ions metabolically and then served as sacrificing template for the precipitation and calcination of mineral shell. The pre-adsorption enabled the microorganism to enrich of strontium ions into the inner part of the microcapsules, which ensured a slow-release profile of the trace element from the microcapsule. The co-culture with human marrow stromal cells showed that gene expressions of alkaline phosphatase and Collagen-I were promoted. The promotion of osteogenic differentiation was further confirmed in the 3D culture of cell-material complexes. The strategy using living microorganism as 'smart doping apparatus' to control incorporation of trace element into calcium phosphate paved a pathway to new functional materials for hard tissue regeneration.

Development of an easy-debonding orthodontic adhesive using thermal heating.

PubMed

Tsuruoka, Takashi; Namura, Yasuhiro; Shimizu, Noriyoshi

2007-01-01

We produced experimentally a new bonding material that consisted of a mixture of a base resin (4-META/MMA-TBB resin adhesive) and thermoexpandable microcapsules for safe, easy debonding. Microcapsules in the base resin would start expansion at 80 degrees C, leading to a remarkable decrease in bond strength. Stainless steel brackets were bonded to bovine permanent mandibular incisors using bonding materials containing the microcapsules at different contents. After thermal cycling or heating, the shear bond strength of the brackets was measured. Shear bond strength of the bonding materials containing 30-40 wt% microcapsules decreased to about one-third or one-fifth that of the base resin on heating. Heating the brackets for eight seconds increased the temperature in the pulp chamber by 2 degrees C, which should not induce pulp damage. Results obtained suggested that the new bonding material should prove useful for removing brackets easily at the time of bracket debonding without any pain or enamel cracks, while maintaining the bonding strength during active orthodontic treatment.

Nickel adsorption by magnetic alginate microcapsules containing an extractant.

PubMed

Ngomsik, Audrey-Flore; Bee, Agnès; Siaugue, Jean-Michel; Cabuil, Valérie; Cote, Gérard

2006-05-01

The adsorption of heavy metals on biomaterials was investigated by studying the potential of alginate microcapsules containing an extractant (Cyanex 272) and magnetic nanoparticles (gamma-Fe2O3) for the adsorption of nickel (II) from aqueous solutions. A two-stage kinetics behaviour was observed with 70% of the maximum sorption capacity achieved within 8 h. An increase in nickel removal with increase in pH occurred, the maximum uptake capacity being around 0.42 mmol g-1 at pH 8. The adsorption isotherm (pH about 5.3) was obtained in a wide range of initial nickel concentrations; the experimental data were fitted by a Langmuir model and the qmax value was estimated to be 0.52 mmol g-1. Moreover, including magnetic particles in the microcapsules allowed easy isolation of the beads from the aqueous solutions after the sorption process. Magnetic microcapsules are then suitable for the development of efficient biosorbents for removal and recovery of heavy metals from wastewater using magnetic separation.

Hollow multilayer microcapsules for pH-/thermally responsive drug delivery using aliphatic poly(urethane-amine) as smart component.

PubMed

Shi, Jun; Du, Chao; Shi, Jin; Wang, Yaming; Cao, Shaokui

2013-04-01

Hollow multilayer microcapsules made of aliphatic poly(urethane-amine) (PUA) and sodium poly(styrene sulfonate) (PSS), templated on PSS-doped CaCO3 particles, are prepared for pH-/thermally responsive drug delivery. The electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonding under weak-acid conditions between aliphatic PUA and PSS contribute to the formation of multilayer microcapsules. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results demonstrate an obvious variation of the hollow multilayer microcapsules in response to changes in temperature and pH value. Drug-release behaviors using DOX as a model drug demonstrate that the drug release increases on decreasing the pH value because of the interaction weakness between aliphatic PUA and PSS in acidic conditions. Moreover, the drug release is higher at 55 °C than that at 37 °C for the sake of the shrinkage of aliphatic PUA above its lower critical solution temperature (LCST). Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Microcapsules fabricated from liquid marbles stabilized with latex particles.

PubMed

Ueno, Kazuyuki; Hamasaki, Sho; Wanless, Erica J; Nakamura, Yoshinobu; Fujii, Syuji

2014-03-25

Millimeter- and centimeter-sized "liquid marbles" were readily prepared by rolling water droplets on a powder bed of dried submicrometer-sized polystyrene latex particles carrying poly[2-(diethylamino)ethyl methacrylate] hairs (PDEA-PS). Scanning electron microscopy studies indicated that flocs of the PDEA-PS particles were adsorbed at the surface of these water droplets, leading to stable spherical liquid marbles. The liquid marbles were deformed as a result of water evaporation to adopt a deflated spherical geometry, and the rate of water evaporation decreased with increasing atmospheric relative humidity. Conversely, liquid marbles formed using saturated aqueous LiCl solution led to atmospheric water absorption by the liquid marbles and a consequent mass increase. The liquid marbles can be transformed into polymeric capsules containing water by exposure to solvent vapor: the PDEA-PS particles were plasticized with the solvent vapor to form a polymer film at the air-water interface of the liquid marbles. The polymeric capsules with aqueous volumes of 250 μL or less kept their oblate ellipsoid/near spherical shape even after complete water evaporation, which confirmed that a rigid polymeric capsule was successfully formed. Both the rate of water evaporation from the pure water liquid marbles and the rate of water adsorption into the aqueous LiCl liquid marbles were reduced with an increase of solvent vapor treatment time. This suggests that the number and size of pores within the polymer particles/flocs on the liquid marble surface decreased due to film formation during exposure to organic solvent vapor. In addition, organic-inorganic composite capsules and colloidal crystal capsules were fabricated from liquid marbles containing aqueous SiO2 dispersions.

Mitigation of Quantum Dot Cytotoxicity by Microencapsulation

PubMed Central

Romoser, Amelia; Ritter, Dustin; Majitha, Ravish; Meissner, Kenith E.; McShane, Michael; Sayes, Christie M.

2011-01-01

When CdSe/ZnS-polyethyleneimine (PEI) quantum dots (QDs) are microencapsulated in polymeric microcapsules, human fibroblasts are protected from acute cytotoxic effects. Differences in cellular morphology, uptake, and viability were assessed after treatment with either microencapsulated or unencapsulated dots. Specifically, QDs contained in microcapsules terminated with polyethylene glycol (PEG) mitigate contact with and uptake by cells, thus providing a tool to retain particle luminescence for applications such as extracellular sensing and imaging. The microcapsule serves as the “first line of defense” for containing the QDs. This enables the individual QD coating to be designed primarily to enhance the function of the biosensor. PMID:21814567

Encapsulated VEGF-secreting cells enhance proliferation of neuronal progenitors in the hippocampus of AβPP/Ps1 mice.

PubMed

Antequera, Desiree; Portero, Aitziber; Bolos, Marta; Orive, Gorka; Hernández, Rosa M Rm A; Pedraz, José Luis; Carro, Eva

2012-01-01

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) promotes neurogenesis in the adult hippocampus, but the way in which this process occurs in the Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain is still unknown. We examined the proliferation of neuronal precursors with an ex vivo approach, using encapsulated VEGF secreting cells, in AβPP/PS1 mice, a mouse model of AD. Overexpression of VEGF and VEGF receptor flk-1 was observed in the cerebral cortex from VEGF microcapsules-treated AβPP/PS1 mice at 1, 3 and 6 months after VEGF-microcapsule implantation. Stereological counting of 5-bromodeoxyuridine positive cells revealed that encapsulated VEGF secreting cells significantly enhanced cellular proliferation in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG). The number of neuronal precursors in VEGF microcapsules-treated AβPP/PS1 mice was also greater, and this effect remains after 6 months. We also confirmed that encapsulated VEGF secreting cells also stimulated angiogenesis in the cerebral cortex and hippocampal dentate gyrus. In addition, we found that VEGF-microcapsule treatment was associated with a depressed expression and activity of acetylcholinesterase in the hippocampus of AβPP/PS1 mice, a similar pattern as first-line medications for the treatment of AD. We conclude that stereologically-implanted VEGF-microcapsules exert an acute and long-standing neurotrophic effects, and could be utilized to improve potential therapies to control the progression of AD.

Processing of microencapsulated dyes for the visual inspection of fibre reinforced plastics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hopmann, Ch.; Kerschbaum, M.; Küsters, K.

2014-05-01

The evaluation of damages caused during processing, assembly or usage of fibre reinforced plastics is still a challenge. The use of inspection technology like ultrasonic scanning enables a detailed damage analysis but requires high investments and trained staff. Therefore, the visual inspection method is widely used. A drawback of this method is the difficult identification of barely visible damages, which can already be detrimental for the structural integrity. Therefore an approach is undertaken to integrate microencapsulated dyes into the laminates of fibre reinforced plastic parts to highlight damages on the surface. In case of a damage, the microcapsules rupture which leads to a release of the dye and a visible bruise on the part surface. To enable a wide application spectrum for this technology the microcapsules must be processable without rupturing with established manufacturing processes for fibre reinforced plastics. Therefore the incorporation of microcapsules in the filament winding, prepreg autoclave and resin transfer moulding (RTM) process is investigated. The results show that the use of a carrier medium is a feasible way to incorporate the microcapsules into the laminate for all investigated manufacturing processes. Impact testing of these laminates shows a bruise formation on the specimen surface which correlates with the impact energy level. This indicates a microcapsule survival during processing and shows the potential of this technology for damage detection and characterization.

Experimental and Theoretical Investigations on Viscosity of Fe-Ni-C Liquids at High Pressures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, B.; Lai, X.; Wang, J.; Zhu, F.; Liu, J.; Kono, Y.

2016-12-01

Understanding and modeling of Earth's core processes such as geodynamo and heat flow via convection in liquid outer cores hinges on the viscosity of candidate liquid iron alloys under core conditions. Viscosity estimates from various methods of the metallic liquid of the outer core, however, span up to 12 orders of magnitude. Due to experimental challenges, viscosity measurements of iron liquids alloyed with lighter elements are scarce and conducted at conditions far below those expected for the outer core. In this study, we adopt a synergistic approach by integrating experiments at experimentally-achievable conditions with computations up to core conditions. We performed viscosity measurements based on the modified Stokes' floating sphere viscometry method for the Fe-Ni-C liquids at high pressures in a Paris-Edinburgh press at Sector 16 of the Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory. Our results show that the addition of 3-5 wt.% carbon to iron-nickel liquids has negligible effect on its viscosity at pressures lower than 5 GPa. The viscosity of the Fe-Ni-C liquids, however, becomes notably higher and increases by a factor of 3 at 5-8 GPa. Similarly, our first-principles molecular dynamics calculations up to Earth's core pressures show a viscosity change in Fe-Ni-C liquids at 5 GPa. The significant change in the viscosity is likely due to a liquid structural transition of the Fe-Ni-C liquids as revealed by our X-ray diffraction measurements and first-principles molecular dynamics calculations. The observed correlation between structure and physical properties of liquids permit stringent benchmark test of the computational liquid models and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of liquid properties under high pressures. The interplay between experiments and first-principles based modeling is shown to be a practical and effective methodology for studying liquid properties under outer core conditions that are difficult to reach with the current static high-pressure capabilities. The new viscosity data from experiments and computations would provide new insights into the internal dynamics of the outer core.

RF cavity using liquid dielectric for tuning and cooling

DOEpatents

Popovic, Milorad [Warrenville, IL; Johnson, Rolland P [Newport News, VA

2012-04-17

A system for accelerating particles includes an RF cavity that contains a ferrite core and a liquid dielectric. Characteristics of the ferrite core and the liquid dielectric, among other factors, determine the resonant frequency of the RF cavity. The liquid dielectric is circulated to cool the ferrite core during the operation of the system.

Cucurbit[n]uril-Based Microcapsules Self-Assembled within Microfluidic Droplets: A Versatile Approach for Supramolecular Architectures and Materials

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Conspectus Microencapsulation is a fundamental concept behind a wide range of daily applications ranging from paints, adhesives, and pesticides to targeted drug delivery, transport of vaccines, and self-healing concretes. The beauty of microfluidics to generate microcapsules arises from the capability of fabricating monodisperse and micrometer-scale droplets, which can lead to microcapsules/particles with fine-tuned control over size, shape, and hierarchical structure, as well as high reproducibility, efficient material usage, and high-throughput manipulation. The introduction of supramolecular chemistry, such as host–guest interactions, endows the resultant microcapsules with stimuli-responsiveness and self-adjusting capabilities, and facilitates hierarchical microstructures with tunable stability and porosity, leading to the maturity of current microencapsulation industry. Supramolecular architectures and materials have attracted immense attention over the past decade, as they open the possibility to obtain a large variety of aesthetically pleasing structures, with myriad applications in biomedicine, energy, sensing, catalysis, and biomimicry, on account of the inherent reversible and adaptive nature of supramolecular interactions. As a subset of supramolecular interactions, host–guest molecular recognition involves the formation of inclusion complexes between two or more moieties, with specific three-dimensional structures and spatial arrangements, in a highly controllable and cooperative manner. Such highly selective, strong yet dynamic interactions could be exploited as an alternative methodology for programmable and controllable engineering of supramolecular architectures and materials, exploiting reversible interactions between complementary components. Through the engineering of molecular structures, assemblies can be readily functionalized based on host–guest interactions, with desirable physicochemical characteristics. In this Account, we summarize the current state of development in the field of monodisperse supramolecular microcapsules, fabricated through the integration of traditional microfluidic techniques and interfacial host–guest chemistry, specifically cucurbit[n]uril (CB[n])-mediated host–guest interactions. Three different strategies, colloidal particle-driven assembly, interfacial condensation-driven assembly and electrostatic interaction-driven assembly, are classified and discussed in detail, presenting the methodology involved in each microcapsule formation process. We highlight the state-of-the-art in design and control over structural complexity with desirable functionality, as well as promising applications, such as cargo delivery stemming from the assembled microcapsules. On account of its dynamic nature, the CB[n]-mediated host–guest complexation has demonstrated efficient response toward various external stimuli such as UV light, pH change, redox chemistry, and competitive guests. Herein, we also demonstrate different microcapsule modalities, which are engineered with CB[n] host–guest chemistry and also can be disrupted with the aid of external stimuli, for triggered release of payloads. In addition to the overview of recent achievements and current limitations of these microcapsules, we finally summarize several perspectives on tunable cargo loading and triggered release, directions, and challenges for this technology, as well as possible strategies for further improvement, which will lead to substainitial progress of host–guest chemistry in supramolecular architectures and materials. PMID:28075551

Research Advances: Paper Batteries, Phototriggered Microcapsules, and Oil-Free Plastic Production

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

King, Angela G.

2010-01-01

Chemists continue to work at the forefront of materials science research. Recent advances include application of bioengineering to produce plastics from renewable biomass instead of petroleum, generation of paper-based batteries, and development of phototriggerable microcapsules for chemical delivery. In this article, the author provides summaries…

Open-mouthed hybrid microcapsules with elevated enzyme loading and enhanced catalytic activity.

PubMed

Shi, Jiafu; Zhang, Shaohua; Wang, Xiaoli; Jiang, Zhongyi

2014-10-25

Open-mouthed hybrid microcapsules (HMCs) are synthesized through a hard-templating method. When utilized for enzyme immobilization and enzymatic catalysis, the open-mouthed HMCs show high enzyme loading capability, enhanced catalytic activity and desirable recycling stability, due to their fully exposed outer and inner surfaces.

Study on micro-bend light transmission performance of novel liquid-core optical fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, Junyan; Zhao, Zhimin; Wang, Kaisheng; Guo, Linfeng

2007-01-01

With the increasing development of material technology and electronic integration technology, optical fiber and its using in smart structure have become hot in the field of material research. And liquid-core optical fiber is a special kind of optical fiber, which is made using liquid material as core and polymer material as optical layer and protective covering, and it has the characteristics of large core diameter, high numerical aperture, large-scope and efficient spectrum transmission and long life for using. So the liquid-core optical fiber is very suitable for spectrum cure, ultraviolet solidification, fluorescence detection, criminal investigation and evidence obtainment, etc, and especially as light transfer element in some new structures for the measurement of some signals, such as concentration, voltage, temperature, light intensity and so on. In this paper, the novel liquid-core optical fiber is self-made, and then through the test of its light transmission performance in free state, the relation between axial micro-bend and light-intensity loss are presented. When the liquid-core optical fiber is micro-bent axially, along with the axial displacement's increase, output power of light is reducing increasingly, and approximately has linear relation to micro-displacement in a range. According to the results liquid-core fiber-optic micro-bend sensor can be designed to measure micro-displacement of the tested objects. Experimental data and analysis provide experimental basis for further application of liquid-core optical fiber.

Molecular recognition in chiral smectic liquid crystals: the effect of core-core interactions and chirality transfer on polar order.

PubMed

Lemieux, Robert P

2007-12-01

This critical review focuses on the induction of polar order in smectic liquid crystal phases by dopants with axially chiral cores, and should be of interest to all practitioners of supramolecular chemistry. The variations in polarization power of these dopants with the core structure of the liquid crystal hosts is a manifestation of molecular recognition that reflects the nanosegregation of aromatic cores from paraffinic side-chains in smectic phases, and the collective effect of core-core interactions that enable the propagation of chiral perturbations.

Highly Sensitive Liquid Core Temperature Sensor Based on Multimode Interference Effects

PubMed Central

Fuentes-Fuentes, Miguel A.; May-Arrioja, Daniel A.; Guzman-Sepulveda, José R.; Torres-Cisneros, Miguel; Sánchez-Mondragón, José J.

2015-01-01

A novel fiber optic temperature sensor based on a liquid-core multimode interference device is demonstrated. The advantage of such structure is that the thermo-optic coefficient (TOC) of the liquid is at least one order of magnitude larger than that of silica and this, combined with the fact that the TOC of silica and the liquid have opposite signs, provides a liquid-core multimode fiber (MMF) highly sensitive to temperature. Since the refractive index of the liquid can be easily modified, this allows us to control the modal properties of the liquid-core MMF at will and the sensor sensitivity can be easily tuned by selecting the refractive index of the liquid in the core of the device. The maximum sensitivity measured in our experiments is 20 nm/°C in the low-temperature regime up to 60 °C. To the best of our knowledge, to date, this is the largest sensitivity reported for fiber-based MMI temperature sensors. PMID:26512664

Microcapsule-based techniques for improving the safety of lithium-ion batteries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baginska, Marta

Lithium-ion batteries are vital energy storage devices due to their high specific energy density, lack of memory effect, and long cycle life. While they are predominantly used in small consumer electronics, new strategies for improving battery safety and lifetime are critical to the successful implementation of high-capacity, fast-charging materials required for advanced Li-ion battery applications. Currently, the presence of a volatile, combustible electrolyte and an oxidizing agent (Lithium oxide cathodes) make the Li-ion cell susceptible to fire and explosions. Thermal overheating, electrical overcharging, or mechanical damage can trigger thermal runaway, and if left unchecked, combustion of battery materials. To improve battery safety, autonomic, thermally-induced shutdown of Li-ion batteries is demonstrated by depositing thermoresponsive polymer microspheres onto battery anodes. When the internal temperature of the cell reaches a critical value, the microspheres melt and conformally coat the anode and/or separator with an ion insulating barrier, halting Li-ion transport and shutting down the cell permanently. Charge and discharge capacity is measured for Li-ion coin cells containing microsphere-coated anodes or separators as a function of capsule coverage. Scanning electron microscopy images of electrode surfaces from cells that have undergone autonomic shutdown provides evidence of melting, wetting, and re-solidification of polyethylene (PE) into the anode and polymer film formation at the anode/separator interface. As an extension of this autonomic shutdown approach, a particle-based separator capable of performing autonomic shutdown, but which reduces the shorting hazard posed by current bi- and tri-polymer commercial separators, is presented. This dual-particle separator is composed of hollow glass microspheres acting as a physical spacer between electrodes, and PE microspheres to impart autonomic shutdown functionality. An oil-immersion technique is developed to simulate an overheating condition while the cell is cycling. Experimental protocols are developed to assess the performance of the separator in terms of its ability to perform autonomic shutdown and examine tested battery materials using scanning electron microscopy. Another approach to improving battery functionality is via the microencapsulation of battery additives. Currently, additives are added directly into a battery electrolyte, and while they typically perform their function given a sufficient loading, these additives often do so at the expense of battery performance. Microencapsulation allows for a high loading of additives to be incorporated into the cell and their release triggered only when and where they are needed. In this work, microencapsulation techniques are developed to successfully encapsulate 3-hexylthiophene, a stabilizing agent for high-voltage cathodes in Li-ion batteries and conductive polymer precursor, as well as the flame retardant Tris(2-choloroethyl phosphate) (TCP). Microcapsules containing 3-hexylthiophene are coated onto model battery electrodes and immersed in electrolyte. The microcapsule shell wall insulates the 3-hexylthiophene until the microcapsules are mechanically crushed and electropolymerization of the released core to form poly(3-ht) occurs under cyclic voltammetry. In addition, TCP was encapsulated using in situ polymerization. TCP-containing microcapsules are stable in electrolyte at room temperature, but are thermally triggered to release their payload at elevated temperatures. Experimental protocols are developed to study the in situ triggering and release of microencapsulated additives.

Development of self-healing polymers via amine-epoxy chemistry: I. Properties of healing agent carriers and the modelling of a two-part self-healing system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, He; Yang, Jinglei

2014-06-01

Two types of healing agent carriers (microcapsules containing epoxy solution, referred to as EP-capsules, and etched hollow glass bubbles (HGBs) loaded with amine solution, referred to as AM-HGBs) used in self-healing epoxy systems were prepared and characterized in this study. The core percentages were measured at about 80 wt% and 33 wt% for EP-capsules and AM-HGBs, respectively. The loaded amine in AM-HGB, after incorporation into the epoxy matrix, showed high stability at ambient temperature, but diffused out gradually during heat treatment at 80 °C. The amount and the mass ratio of the two released healants at the crack plane were correlated with the size, concentration, and core percentage of the healing agent carriers. A simplified cubic array model for randomly distributed healing agent carriers was adopted to depict the longest diffusion distance of the released healants, which is inversely proportional to the cubic root of the carrier concentration.

Polymer microcapsules with "foamed" membranes.

PubMed

Lavergne, Fleur-Marie; Cot, Didier; Ganachaud, François

2007-06-05

This article describes the preparation of capsules displaying craters at their surfaces and independent holes inside their membranes. These poly(methylmethacrylate) capsules of 20 to 200 microm diameter are prepared by a solvent evaporation process and typically contain a dispersant, polyvinyl alcohol, and an excipient, namely, a fatty acid triglyceride (miglyol 812). Spectroscopic methods showed that, depending on the miglyol content, the craters at the surface exhibited sizes of about 1 to 2 microm, whereas the core structure of the membrane changed significantly, typically from "soft-part-of-bread" up to "foamed"-like aspects. Among several spectroscopy techniques, confocal fluorescence microscopy confirmed that the capsules retained the miglyol in their core and not in the craters or holes, even after centrifugation and handling. This technique also showed that holes in the membrane are filled with water. A possible analysis of the "foaming" phenomenon based on the surface tensions of different oils, as well as their optimal hydrophile-lipophile balance (HLBO), is added to generalize the concept.

Novel low-molecular-weight-gelator-based microcapsules with controllable morphology and temperature responsiveness.

PubMed

Patel, Ashok R; Remijn, Caroline; Heussen, Patricia C M; den Adel, Ruud; Velikov, Krassimir P

2013-02-04

A new type of microcapsules with controllable morphology is presented. They are based on a low-molecular-weight gelator and can be switched from temperature-stable to temperature-responsive by simply modifying the preparation method. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

21 CFR 172.230 - Microcapsules for flavoring substances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... of the following components: component and limitations Succinylated gelatin—Not to exceed 15 percent by combined weight of the microcapsule and flavoring oil. Succinic acid content of the gelatin is 4.5... coacervate of gum arabic and gelatin. n-Octyl alcohol—As a defoamer. (4) In lieu of the components listed in...

21 CFR 172.230 - Microcapsules for flavoring substances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... limitations Succinylated gelatin—Not to exceed 15 percent by combined weight of the microcapsule and flavoring oil. Succinic acid content of the gelatin is 4.5 to 5.5 percent. Arabinogalactan—Complying with § 172... Glutaraldehyde—As cross-linking agent for insolubilizing a coacervate of gum arabic and gelatin. n-Octyl alcohol...

21 CFR 172.230 - Microcapsules for flavoring substances.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... limitations Succinylated gelatin—Not to exceed 15 percent by combined weight of the microcapsule and flavoring oil. Succinic acid content of the gelatin is 4.5 to 5.5 percent. Arabinogalactan—Complying with § 172... Glutaraldehyde—As cross-linking agent for insolubilizing a coacervate of gum arabic and gelatin. n-Octyl alcohol...

Microencapsulation by spray drying of lemon essential oil: Evaluation of mixtures of mesquite gum-nopal mucilage as new wall materials.

PubMed

Cortés-Camargo, Stefani; Cruz-Olivares, Julian; Barragán-Huerta, Blanca E; Dublán-García, Octavio; Román-Guerrero, Angélica; Pérez-Alonso, César

2017-06-01

Mesquite gum (MG) and nopal mucilage (NM) mixtures were used for microencapsulation of lemon essential oil (LEO) by spray drying. Emulsions of MG, NM and MG-NM mixtures (25-75, 50-50, 75-25) were evaluated according to the droplet size (1.49-9.16 μm), viscosity and zeta potential (-16.07 to -20.13 mV), and microcapsules were characterised in particle size (11.9-44.4 μm), morphology, volatile oil retention (VOR) (45.9-74.4%), encapsulation efficiency (EE) (70.9-90.6%), oxidative stability and thermal analysis. The higher concentration of MG led to smaller droplet sizes and lower viscosity in the emulsions, and smaller particle sizes with the highest VOR in microcapsules. The higher concentration of NM induced to higher viscosity in the emulsions, and larger particle sizes with the highest values of EE and oxidative stability in microcapsules. This work shows evidence that MG-NM mixtures can have synergic effect in desirable characteristics such as retention and shelf life extension of LEO in microcapsules.

Design and characterization of controlled-release edible packaging films prepared with synergistic whey-protein polysaccharide complexes.

PubMed

Liu, Fei; Jiang, Yanfeng; Du, Bingjian; Chai, Zhi; Jiao, Tong; Zhang, Chunyue; Ren, Fazheng; Leng, Xiaojing

2013-06-19

This paper describes an investigation into the properties of a doubly emulsified film incorporated with protein-polysaccharide microcapsules, which serves as a multifunctional food packaging film prepared using common edible materials in place of petroleum--based plastics. The relationships between the microstructural properties and controlled release features of a series of water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) microcapsulated edible films prepared in thermodynamically incompatible conditions were analyzed. The hydrophilic riboflavin (V(B2)) nano-droplets (13-50 nm) dispersed in α-tocopherol (V(E)) oil phase were embedded in whey protein-polysaccharide (WPs) microcapsules with a shell thickness of 20-56 nm. These microcapsules were then integrated in 103 μm thick WPs films. Different polysaccharides, including gum arabic (GA), low-methoxyl pectin (LMP), and κ-carrageenan (KCG), exhibited different in vitro synergistic effects on the ability of both films to effect enteric controlled release of both vitamins. GA, which showed a strong emulsifying ability, also showed better control of V(E) than other polysaccharides, and the highly charged KCG showed better control of V(B2) than GA did.

Combined chemo- and photo-thermal therapy delivered by multifunctional theranostic gold nanorod-loaded microcapsules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Haiyan; di, Yingfeng; Chen, Dan; Madrid, Kyle; Zhang, Min; Tian, Caiping; Tang, Liping; Gu, Yueqing

2015-05-01

A polyelectrolyte microcapsule-based, cancer-targeting, and controlled drug delivery system has been developed as a multifunctional theranostic agent for synergistic cancer treatment. This new system, called FA-MC@GNR, is composed of folic acid (FA)-modified, multi-layered, hollow microcapsules loaded with gold nanorods (GNRs), and undergoes thermal degradation under near infrared (NIR) light. Either an NIR dye (MPA) or anti-cancer drug (doxorubicin, DOX) was loaded into the microcapsules via physical adsorption, yielding FA-MC@GNRs/MPA or FA-MC@GNRs/DOX, both of which exhibit no obvious toxicity, high stability, and remarkably improved tumor-targeting capabilities in vivo. Utilizing the strong NIR absorption of FA-MC@GNRs/DOX, we demonstrate the system's ability to simultaneously elicit photothermal therapy and controlled chemotherapy, achieving synergistic cancer treatment both in vitro cellular and in vivo animal experiments. Our study presents a new type of multifunctional micro-carrier for the delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs and photothermal agents, which has been shown to be an effective therapeutic approach for combined cancer treatment.

Nonlinear deformations of microcapsules in elongation flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deschamps, Julien; de Loubens, Clément; Boedec, Gwenn; Georgelin, Marc; Leonetti, Marc; Soft Matter; Biophysics Group Team

2014-11-01

Soft microcapsules are drops bounded by a thin elastic shell made of cross-linked proteins. They have numerous applications for drug delivery in bioengineering, pharmaceutics and medicine, where their mechanical stability and their dynamics under flow are crucial. They can also be used as red blood cells models. Here, we investigate the mechanical behaviour of microcapsules made of albumine in strong elongational flow, up to a stretching of 180% just before breaking. The set-up allows us to visualize the deformed shape in the two perpendicular main fields of view, to manage high capillary number and to manipulate soft microcapsules. The steady-state shape of a capsule in the planar elongational flow is non-axisymmetric. In each cross section, the shape is an ellipse but with different small axis which vary in opposite sense with the stretching. Whatever the degree of cross-linking and the size of the capsules, the deformations followed the same master-curve. Comparisons between numerical predictions and experimental results permit to conclude unambiguously that the more properly strain-energy model of membrane is the generalized Hooke model.

Synthesis of Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) Microcapsules for Drug Delivery Applications via UV Aerosol Photopolymerization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roberson, Nicole; Denmark, Daniel; Witanachchi, Sarath

Hybrid drug delivery systems composed of thermoresponsive polymers and magnetic nanoparticles have been developed using chemical methods to deliver controlled amounts of a biotherapeutic to target tissue. These methods can be expensive, time intensive, and produce impure composites due to the use of surfactants during polymer synthesis. In this study, UV aerosol photopolymerization is used to synthesize N-isoplopylacrylamide (NIPAM) monomers, N,N-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) crosslinker, and irgacure 2959 photoinitiator into the transporting microcapsule for drug delivery. The method of UV aerosol photopolymerization allows for the continuous, cost effective, and time efficient synthesis of a high concentration of pure polymers in a short amount of time; toxic surfactants are not necessary. Optimal NIPAM monomer, MBA crosslinker, and irgacure 2959 photoinitiator concentrations were tested and analyzed to synthesize a microcapsule with optimal conditions for controlled drug delivery. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) imaging reveals that synthesis of polymer microcapsules of about 30 micrometers in size is effective through UV aerosol photopolymerization. Findings will contribute greatly to the field of emergency medicine. This work was supported by the United States Army (Grant No. W81XWH1020101/3349).

Improvement of Stability and Antioxidant Activities by Using Phycocyanin - Chitosan Encapsulation Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzery, Meiny; Hadiyanto; Majid, Dian; Setyawan, Deny; Sutanto, Heri

2017-02-01

Encapsulation is a coating process to improve the stability of bioactive compounds. Phycocyanin with high antioxidant activity has been encapsulated with chitosan in microcapsules form. In this study aims to determine the best conditions in the encapsulation process using the extrusion method, characterization of the physicochemical properties of the microcapsules, antioxidant activity test using DPPH, in vitro release performance and evaluate the storage stability against temperature. The results of the encapsulation process is obtained: Na-TPP is better than Na-citrate as crosslinker and chitosan content 3% as a coating with ratio of chitosan to phycocyanin ratio 1: 1. Test of antioxidant activity also showed encapsulation with chitosan content 3% has the highest antioxidant activity. Morphological analysis microcapsules were found to have compact spherical shape with diameter range 900-1000 µm. In vitro release testing showed a quick release in an acidic environment (SGF) for 2 hours and slowly release under alkaline conditions (SIF) for 8 hours under mechanical stirring at 37°C. Phycocyanin much more stable against temperature during storage in microcapsules.

Micro-emulsification/encapsulation of krill oil by complex coacervation with krill protein isolated using isoelectric solubilization/precipitation.

PubMed

Shi, Liu; Beamer, Sarah K; Yang, Hong; Jaczynski, Jacek

2018-04-01

This study determined feasibility of krill protein isolated with isoelectric solubilization/precipitation (ISP) as wall material to microencapsulate krill oil by freeze-drying. Effects of krill oil/krill protein ratio on properties of microcapsules were investigated. With increased ratio, crude protein of microcapsules decreased, while total lipid increased. Although microcapsule oil loading capacity increased, loading and encapsulation efficiencies decreased. Thin layer chromatography (TLC) confirmed abundance of phospholipids, which are amphiphilic; and thus, resulted in stable emulsion (emulsion stability index). Microcapsules contained ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) at 43-60, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) at 28-41 and 9-11 g/100g of total FAs, respectively. SDS-PAGE electrophoresis revealed proteolysis of ISP krill protein, probably causing reduced loading and encapsulation efficiencies. SEM showed that krill oil/krill protein ratio affected surface microstructure. ISP krill protein showed potential as a wall material to microencapsulate krill oil; and thus, expand application of krill oil/protein for human consumption. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microencapsulated equine mesenchymal stromal cells promote cutaneous wound healing in vitro.

PubMed

Bussche, Leen; Harman, Rebecca M; Syracuse, Bethany A; Plante, Eric L; Lu, Yen-Chun; Curtis, Theresa M; Ma, Minglin; Van de Walle, Gerlinde R

2015-04-11

The prevalence of impaired cutaneous wound healing is high and treatment is difficult and often ineffective, leading to negative social and economic impacts for our society. Innovative treatments to improve cutaneous wound healing by promoting complete tissue regeneration are therefore urgently needed. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been reported to provide paracrine signals that promote wound healing, but (i) how they exert their effects on target cells is unclear and (ii) a suitable delivery system to supply these MSC-derived secreted factors in a controlled and safe way is unavailable. The present study was designed to provide answers to these questions by using the horse as a translational model. Specifically, we aimed to (i) evaluate the in vitro effects of equine MSC-derived conditioned medium (CM), containing all factors secreted by MSCs, on equine dermal fibroblasts, a cell type critical for successful wound healing, and (ii) explore the potential of microencapsulated equine MSCs to deliver CM to wounded cells in vitro. MSCs were isolated from the peripheral blood of healthy horses. Equine dermal fibroblasts from the NBL-6 (horse dermal fibroblast cell) line were wounded in vitro, and cell migration and expression levels of genes involved in wound healing were evaluated after treatment with MSC-CM or NBL-6-CM. These assays were repeated by using the CM collected from MSCs encapsulated in core-shell hydrogel microcapsules. Our salient findings were that equine MSC-derived CM stimulated the migration of equine dermal fibroblasts and increased their expression level of genes that positively contribute to wound healing. In addition, we found that equine MSCs packaged in core-shell hydrogel microcapsules had similar effects on equine dermal fibroblast migration and gene expression, indicating that microencapsulation of MSCs does not interfere with the release of bioactive factors. Our results demonstrate that the use of CM from MSCs might be a promising new therapy for impaired cutaneous wounds and that encapsulation may be a suitable way to effectively deliver CM to wounded cells in vivo.

Sunlight-induced self-healing of a microcapsule-type protective coating.

PubMed

Song, Young-Kyu; Jo, Ye-Hyun; Lim, Ye-Ji; Cho, Sung-Youl; Yu, Hwan-Chul; Ryu, Byung-Cheol; Lee, Sang-In; Chung, Chan-Moon

2013-02-01

Photopolymerization behavior of a methacryloxypropyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (MAT-PDMS) healing agent was investigated in the presence of benzoin isobutyl ether (BIE) photoinitiator by Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. MAT-PDMS and BIE were microencapsulated with urea-formaldehyde polymer. The surface and shell morphology of the microcapsules was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Mean diameter and size distribution of the microcapsules could be controlled by agitation rate. A coating matrix formulation was prepared by sol-gel reaction of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) in the presence of a polysiloxane and by subsequent addition of an adhesion promoter. The formulation and microcapsules were mixed to give a self-healing coating formulation, which was then sprayed to surface of cellulose-fiber-reinforced-cement (CRC) board or mortar. Contact angle measurements showed that both the polymerized MAT-PDMS and the prepared coating matrix are hydrophobic, and the coating matrix has good wettability with MAT-PDMS. It was confirmed by optical microscopy and SEM that, when the self-healing coating is damaged, the healing agent is released from ruptured microcapsules and fills the damaged region. The self-healing coating was evaluated as protective coating for mortar, and it was demonstrated by water permeability and chloride ion penetration tests that our system has sunlight-induced self-healing capability. Our self-healing coating is the first example of capsule-type photoinduced self-healing system, and offers the advantages of catalyst-free, environmentally friendly, inexpensive, practical healing.

Low-Temperature Self-Healing of a Microcapsule-Type Protective Coating.

PubMed

Kim, Dong-Min; Cho, Yu-Jin; Choi, Ju-Young; Kim, Beom-Jun; Jin, Seung-Won; Chung, Chan-Moon

2017-09-14

Low-temperature self-healing capabilities are essential for self-healing materials exposed to cold environments. Although low-temperature self-healing concepts have been proposed, there has been no report of a microcapsule-type low-temperature self-healing system wherein the healing ability was demonstrated at low temperature. In this work, low-temperature self-healing of a microcapsule-type protective coating was demonstrated. This system employed silanol-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (STP) as a healing agent and dibutyltin dilaurate (DD) as a catalyst. STP underwent a condensation reaction at -20 °C in the presence of DD to give a viscoelastic product. The reaction behavior of STP and the viscoelasticity of the reaction product were investigated. STP and DD were separately microencapsulated by in situ polymerization and interfacial polymerization methods, respectively. The STP- and DD-loaded microcapsules were mixed into a commercial enamel paint, and the resulting formulation was applied to glass slides, steel panels, and mortars to prepare self-healing coatings. When the self-healing coatings were damaged at a low temperature (-20 °C), STP and DD were released from broken microcapsules and filled the damaged area. This process was effectively visualized using a fluorescent dye. The self-healing coatings were scratched and subjected to corrosion tests, electrochemical tests, and saline solution permeability tests. The temperature of the self-healing coatings was maintained at -20 °C before and after scratching and during the tests. We successfully demonstrated that the STP/DD-based coating system has good low-temperature self-healing capability.

Optimization of Microencapsulation of Human Milk Fat Substitute by Response Surface Methodology.

PubMed

Li, Xue; Cao, Jun; Bai, Xinpeng; Jiang, Zefang; Shen, Xuanri

2018-04-01

Human milk fat substitutes (HMFS) are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids which upon microencapsulation, can be used as a source of high quality lipids in infant formula. The response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to optimize the microencapsulation condition of HMFS as a functional product. The microencapsulation efficiency (MEE) of microencapsulated HMFS was investigated with respect to four variables including concentration of soy lecithin (A), ratio of demineralized whey powder to malt dextrin (B), HFMS concentration (C), and homogenizing pressure (D). The optimum conditions for efficient microencapsulation of HMFS by the spray drying technique were determined as follows: the amount of soybean lecithin-0.96%, ratio of desalted whey powder to malt dextrin-2.04:1, oil content-17.37% and homogeneous pressure-0.46MPa. Under these conditions, the MEE was 84.72%, and the basic indices of the microcapsules were good. The structure of the microcapsules, as observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), revealed spherical, smooth-surfaced capsules with diameters ranging between 10-50 μm. Compared with HFMS, the peroxide value (POV) and acid value (AV) of the microcapsule were significantly lower during storage indicating that the microencapsulation process increases stability and shelf life. Infrared spectroscopic analyses indicated that HFMS had the same characteristic functional groups as the oil extracted from microcapsules. Simulated in vitro digestion revealed that the microcapsules were digested completely within 2h with maximum lipid absorption rate of 64%. Furthermore, these results advocate the embedding process of HFMS by RSM due to its efficacy.

Effect of Different Coating Materials on The Characteristics Of Chlorophyll Microcapsules from Caulerpa racemosa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurniasih, R. A.; Dewi, E. N.; Purnamayati, L.

2018-02-01

The sea grape (Caulerpa racemosa) has a chlorophyll pigment that can be extracted using a non-polar solvent. Chlorophyll as a natural dye has unstable characteristics of temperature, pH, and light. Microencapsulation by the freeze-drying method can be used to protect chlorophyll from degradation caused by external influences where the type of coating material can affect the characteristics of the chlorophyll microcapsules. The objective of this study was to determine the characteristics of chlorophyll microcapsules with various types of coating material. Chlorophyll was microencapsulated using maltodextrin (CM), maltodextrin-alginate (CMA), and maltodextrin-fish gelatin (CMG). Chlorophyll encapsulated with maltodextrin-alginate resulting in the highest yield. The results of FTIR analysis indicated the presence of following functional groups in chlorophyll microcapsules viz., inter- and intra-molecular bonded alcohol OH, C = N stretching imine/oxime or C = O stretching conjugated ketone or alkenes, OH phenol, and CN stretching amine. CM had a particle size between 9,061 - 469.9 nm, CMA between 9,707 - 363.5 nm, and CMG between 11.49 - 433.2 nm. Based on the observation of morphology by using SEM, it showed that the all of the chlorophyll microcapsules were in the form of flake shape and porous. CM and CMA looked more fragile than CMG it can be seen from the cracks in some parts of CM and CMA. Therefore, CMG release time was longer than CM and CMA.

Modulating drug release from gastric-floating microcapsules through spray-coating layers.

PubMed

Lee, Wei Li; Tan, Jun Wei Melvin; Tan, Chaoyang Nicholas; Loo, Say Chye Joachim

2014-01-01

Floating dosage forms with prolonged gastric residence time have garnered much interest in the field of oral delivery. However, studies had shown that slow and incomplete release of hydrophobic drugs during gastric residence period would reduce drug absorption and cause drug wastage. Herein, a spray-coated floating microcapsule system was developed to encapsulate fenofibrate and piroxicam, as model hydrophobic drugs, into the coating layers with the aim of enhancing and tuning drug release rates. Incorporating fenofibrate into rubbery poly(caprolactone) (PCL) coating layer resulted in a complete and sustained release for up to 8 h, with outermost non-drug-holding PCL coating layer serving as a rate-controlling membrane. To realize a multidrug-loaded system, both hydrophilic metformin HCl and hydrophobic fenofibrate were simultaneously incorporated into these spray-coated microcapsules, with metformin HCl and fenofibrate localized within the hollow cavity of the capsule and coating layer, respectively. Both drugs were observed to be completely released from these coated microcapsules in a sustained manner. Through specific tailoring of coating polymers and their configurations, piroxicam loaded in both the outer polyethylene glycol and inner PCL coating layers was released in a double-profile manner (i.e. an immediate burst release as the loading dose, followed by a sustained release as the maintenance dose). The fabricated microcapsules exhibited excellent buoyancy in simulated gastric fluid, and provided controlled and sustained release, thus revealing its potential as a rate-controlled oral drug delivery system.

Construction of doxycycline-mediated BMP-2 transgene combining with APA microcapsules for bone repair.

PubMed

Qian, Dongyang; Bai, Bo; Yan, Guangbin; Zhang, Shujiang; Liu, Qi; Chen, Yi; Tan, Xiaobo; Zeng, Yanjun

2016-01-01

The repairing of large segmental bone defects is difficult for clinical orthopedists at present. Gene therapy is regarded as a promising method for bone defects repair. The present study aimed to construct an effective and controllable Tet-On expression system for transferring hBMP-2 gene into bone marrow mesenchymal progenitor cells (BMSCs). Meanwhile, with combination of alginate-poly-L-lysine-alginate (APA) microencapsulation technology, we attempted to reduce the influence of immunologic rejection and examine the effect of the Tet-On expression system on osteogenesis of BMSCs. The adenovirus encoding hBMP-2 (ADV-hBMP2) was constructed using the means of molecular cloning. The ADV-hBMP2 and Adeno-X Tet-On virus was respectively transfected to the HEK293 for amplification and afterward BMSCs were co-infected with the virus of ADV-hBMP2 and the Adeno-X Tet-On. The expression of hBMP-2 was measured with induction by doxycycline (DOX) at different concentration by means of RT-PCR and ELISA. Combining Tet-On expression system and APA microcapsules with the use of the pulsed high-voltage electrostatic microcapsule instrument, we examined the expression level of hBMP-2 in APA microcapsules by ELISA as well as the osteogenesis by alizarin red S staining. An effective Tet-On expression system for transferring hBMP-2 gene into BMSCs was constructed successfully. Also, the expression of hBMP-2 could be regulated by concentration of DOX. The data exhibited that BMSCs in APA microcapsules maintained the capability of proliferation and differentiation. The combination of Tet-On expression system and APA microcapsules could promote the osteogenesis of BMSCs. According to the results, microencapsulated Tet-On expression system showed the effective characteristics of secreting hBMP-2 and enhancing osteogenesis, which would provide a promising way for bone repair.

Facile preparation of biphasic-induced magnetic icariin-loaded composite microcapsules by automated in situ click technology.

PubMed

Pan, Panpan; Chen, Jingdi; Fan, Tiantang; Hu, Yimin; Wu, Tao; Zhang, Qiqing

2016-04-01

This research aims to prepare the biphasic-induced magnetic composite microcapsules (BIMCM) as a promising environmental stimuli-responsive delivery vehicle to dispose the problem of drug burst effect. The paper presented a novel automated in situ click technology of magnetic chitosan/nano hydroxyapatite (CS/nHA) microcapsules. Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) and nHA were simultaneously in situ crystallized by one-step process. Icariin (ICA), a plant-derived flavonol glycoside, was combined to study drug release properties of BIMCM. BIMCM were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Thermal gravimetric analysis/Differential Scanning Calorimetry(TGA/DSC) in order to reveal their component and surface morphology as well as the role of the in situ generated Fe3O4 MNP and nHA. The magnetic test showed the BIMCM were super-paramagnetic. Both in situ generated Fe3O4 MNP and nHA serve as stable inorganic crosslinkers in BIMCM to form many intermolecular crosslinkages for the movability of the CS chains. This makes ICA loaded microcapsules take on a sustained release behavior and results in the self-adjusting of surface morphology, decreasing of swelling and degradation rates. In addition, in vitro tests were systematically carried out to examine the biocompatibility of the microcapsules by MTT test, Wright-Giemsa dying assay and AO/EB fluorescent staining method. These results demonstrated that successful introduction of the in situ click Fe3O4 MNP provided an alternative strategy because of magnetic sensitivity and sustained release. As such, the novel ICA loaded biphasic-induced magnetic CS/nHA/MNP microcapsules are expected to find potential applications in drug delivery system for bone repair. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Influence of gold species (AuCl4(-) and AuCl2(-)) on self-assembly of PS-b-P2VP in solutions and morphology of composite thin films fabricated at the air/liquid interfaces.

PubMed

Zhao, Xingjuan; Wang, Qian; Zhang, Xiaokai; Lee, Yong-Ill; Liu, Hong-Guo

2016-01-21

Composite thin films doped with Au species were fabricated at an air/liquid interface via a series of steps, including the mass transfer of polystyrene-b-poly(2-vinylpyridine) (PS-b-P2VP) across the liquid/liquid interface between a DMF/CHCl3 solution and an aqueous solution containing either AuCl4(-) or AuCl2(-), self-assembly of PS-b-P2VP in a mixed DMF-water solution, and adsorption and further self-organization of the formed aggregates at the air/liquid interface. This is a new approach for fabricating composite polymer films and can be completed within a very short time. AuCl4(-) and AuCl2(-) ions were found to significantly influence the self-assembly behavior of the block copolymer and the morphologies of the composite films, leading to the formation of nanowire arrays and a foam structure at the air/liquid interface, respectively, which originated from rod-like micelles and microcapsules that had formed in the respective solutions. The effect of the metal complex was analyzed based on the packing parameters of the amphiphilic polymer molecules in different microenvironments and the interactions between the pyridine groups and the metal chloride anions. In addition, these composite thin films exhibited stable and durable performance as heterogeneous catalysts for the hydrogenation of nitroaromatics in aqueous solutions.

Magnetic suspension using high temperature superconducting cores

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scurlock, R. G.

1992-01-01

The development of YBCO high temperature superconductors, in wire and tape forms, is rapidly approaching the point where the bulk transport current density j vs magnetic field H characteristics with liquid nitrogen cooling will enable its use in model cores. On the other hand, BSCCO high temperature superconductor in wire form has poor j-H characteristics at 77 K today, although with liquid helium or hydrogen cooling, it appears to be superior to NbTi superconductor. Since liquid nitrogen cooling is approx. 100 times cheaper than liquid helium cooling, the use of YBCO is very attractive for use in magnetic suspension. The design is discussed of a model core to accommodate lift and drag loads up to 6000 and 3000 N respectively. A comparison is made between the design performance of a liquid helium cooled NbTi (or BSCCO) superconducting core and a liquid nitrogen cooled YBCO superconducting core.

Measurement of intact-core length of atomizing liquid jets by image deconvolution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodward, Roger; Burch, Robert; Kuo, Kenneth; Cheung, Fan-Bill

1993-01-01

The investigation of liquid jet breakup and spray development is critical to the understanding of combustion phenomena in liquid propellant rocket engines. Much work has been done to characterize low-speed liquid jet breakup and dilute sprays, but atomizing jets and dense sprays have yielded few quantitative measurements due to their high liquid load fractions and hence their optical opacity. Focus was on a characteristic of the primary breakup process of round liquid jets, namely the length of the intact-liquid core. The specific application considered is that of shear-coaxial-type rocket engine injectors in which liquid oxygen is injected through the center post while high velocity gaseous hydrogen is injected through a concentric annulus, providing a shear force to the liquid jet surface. Real-time x ray radiography, capable of imaging through the dense two-phase region surrounding the liquid core, is used to make the measurements. The intact-liquid-core length data were obtained and interpreted using two conceptually different methods to illustrate the effects of chamber pressure, gas-to-liquid momentum ratio, and cavitation.

Measurement of intact-core length of atomizing liquid jets by image deconvolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woodward, Roger; Burch, Robert; Kuo, Kenneth; Cheung, Fan-Bill

1993-11-01

The investigation of liquid jet breakup and spray development is critical to the understanding of combustion phenomena in liquid propellant rocket engines. Much work has been done to characterize low-speed liquid jet breakup and dilute sprays, but atomizing jets and dense sprays have yielded few quantitative measurements due to their high liquid load fractions and hence their optical opacity. Focus was on a characteristic of the primary breakup process of round liquid jets, namely the length of the intact-liquid core. The specific application considered is that of shear-coaxial-type rocket engine injectors in which liquid oxygen is injected through the center post while high velocity gaseous hydrogen is injected through a concentric annulus, providing a shear force to the liquid jet surface. Real-time x ray radiography, capable of imaging through the dense two-phase region surrounding the liquid core, is used to make the measurements. The intact-liquid-core length data were obtained and interpreted using two conceptually different methods to illustrate the effects of chamber pressure, gas-to-liquid momentum ratio, and cavitation.

High Sensitive Temperature Sensor Using a Liquid-core Optical Fiber with Small Refractive Index Difference Between Core and Cladding Materials.

PubMed

Xu, Yonghao; Chen, Xianfeng; Zhu, Yu

2008-03-17

An intensive temperature sensor based on a liquid-core optical fiber has been demonstrated for the measuring the temperature of the environment. The core of fiber is filled with a mixture of toluene and chloroform in order to make the refractive index of the liquid-core and the cladding of the fiber close. The experiment shows that a temperature sensitivity of about 5 dB/K and a tunable temperature range (from 20 o C to 60 o C) can be achieved. Based on the dielectric-clad liquid core fiber model, a simulation was carried out and the calculated results were in good accord with the experimental measurement.

Microcapsules ejecting nanosized species into the environment.

PubMed

De Geest, Bruno G; McShane, Michael J; Demeester, Jo; De Smedt, Stefaan C; Hennink, Wim E

2008-11-05

In this communication we report on microcapsules which eject nanoparticles into the environment. The speed of the nanoparticles ejected in water is approximately 800-fold faster than their Brownian diffusion. Such microcarriers may allow nanosized species to travel long distances, in short times, through highly viscous environments and may find applications in e.g. drug delivery and tissue engineering.

Dual enzyme responsive microcapsules simulating an "OR" logic gate for biologically triggered drug delivery applications.

PubMed

Radhakrishnan, Krishna; Tripathy, Jasaswini; Raichur, Ashok M

2013-06-14

Hollow microcapsules capable of disintegrating in response to dual biological stimuli have been synthesized from two FDA approved drug molecules. The capsules fabricated from protamine and chondroitin sulphate disintegrate in the presence of either trypsin or hyaluronidase enzymes, which are documented to be simultaneously over-expressed under some pathological conditions.

Thomas checks the condition of the MIS-B middeck locker experiment

NASA Image and Video Library

1995-07-28

STS070-329-022 (13-22 JULY 1995)--- Astronaut Donald A. Thomas, mission specialist, prepares to activate the Microcapsules in Space (MIS-B) experiment on the space shuttle Discovery?s middeck. MIS-B is an Army project to improve the understanding of microencapsulated drug technology and demonstrate the feasibility of producing pharmaceutical microcapsules in the weightlessness of space. This is the second flight of the experiment, which originally flew on STS-53 in 1992. Microcapsules are tiny spheres about 50 to 100 micrometers in diameter (about the thickness of a strand of human hair). They are used to develop high-performance chemical products and innovative pharmaceuticals such as time-release prescriptions. The drug used in the MIS experiments was ampicillin.

Thermal treatment of galactose-branched polyelectrolyte microcapsules to improve drug delivery with reserved targetability.

PubMed

Zhang, Fu; Wu, Qi; Liu, Li-Jun; Chen, Zhi-Chun; Lin, Xian-Fu

2008-06-05

A novel multilayered drug delivery system by LbL assembly of galactosylated polyelectrolyte, which is possible to have the potential in hepatic targeting by the presence of galactose residues at the microcapsule's surface, is designed. Thermal treatment was performed on the capsules and a dramatic thermal shrinkage up to 60% decrease of capsule diameter above 50 degrees C was observed. This thermal behavior was then used to manipulate drug loading capacity and release rate. Heating after drug loading could seal the capsule shell, enhancing the loading capacity and reducing the release rate significantly. Excellent affinity between galactose-binding lectin and heated galactose-containing microcapsules were observed, indicating a stable targeting potential even after high temperature elevating up to 90 degrees C.

Protection of Grain Products from Sitophilus oryzae (L.) Contamination by Anti-Insect Pest Repellent Sachet Containing Allyl Mercaptan Microcapsule.

PubMed

Chang, Yoonjee; Lee, Soo-Hyun; Na, Ja Hyun; Chang, Pahn-Shick; Han, Jaejoon

2017-11-01

The purpose of this study was to develop an anti-insect pest repellent sachet to prevent Sitophilus oryzae (L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) contamination in grain packaging. The anti-insect pest activities of essential oils (EOs) from garlic (Allium Sativum), ginger (Zingiber Officinalis), black pepper (Piper nigrum), onion (Allium cepa), and fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) as well as major compounds (allyl disulfide, AD; allyl mercaptan, AM) isolated from of garlic and onion (AD and AM) were measured against S. oryzae. The results revealed that garlic EO, onion EO, AD, and AM showed strong fumigant insecticidal activities. Among these, AM showed the highest acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition rate, indicating that the fumigation insecticidal efficacy of AM is related with its AChE inhibition ability. Subsequently, the microcapsules were produced with a high efficiency (80.02%) by using AM as a core material and rice flour as a wall material. Finally, sachet composed of rice flour microcapsule containing 2% AM (RAM) was produced. Repellent assay was performed to measure anti-insect pest ability of the RAM sachet, showed remarkable repelling effect within 48 h both in the presence or absence of attractant. In a release profile of RAM sachet, it was expected to last over 20 mo during the distribution period of brown rice. Moreover, RAM sachet showed no undesirable changes to the sensory properties of the rice both before and after cooking. Taken together, these results suggest that the newly developed RAM sachet could be used as a packaging material to protect grain products from S. oryzae contamination. The rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae (L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), causes damages to stored products and its contamination in grain products has become a major problem in cereal market. To preserve brown rice, an anti-insect pest repellent sachet containing 2% allyl mercaptan was newly developed and it showed remarkable repellent abilities against S. oryzae. It could be used as an active food packaging system to protect grain products from insect pest contamination. © 2017 Institute of Food Technologists®.

Liquid core photonic crystal fiber with low-refractive-index liquids for optofluidic applications.

PubMed

Park, Jiyoung; Kang, Doo-Eui; Paulson, Bjorn; Nazari, Tavakol; Oh, Kyunghwan

2014-07-14

A defectless hexagonal air-silica photonic crystal fiber (PCF) structure with its central hole selectively filled by a low-refractive-index liquid is numerically analyzed. Despite the fact that the refractive index of the liquid is significantly lower than that of silica, we found an optimal range of waveguide parameters to ensure light guidance through the liquid core in the fundamental mode, maximizing the light-liquid interaction over a desired wavelength range. Using the vectorial finite element method (FEM), we report detailed parametric studies in terms of the effective index, chromatic dispersion, optical loss, and modal intensity distribution of the liquid core PCFs.

NMR relaxation dispersion of Miglyol molecules confined inside polymeric micro-capsules.

PubMed

Nechifor, Ruben; Ardelean, Ioan; Mattea, Carlos; Stapf, Siegfried; Bogdan, Mircea

2011-11-01

Frequency dependent NMR relaxation studies have been carried out on Miglyol molecules confined inside core shell polymeric capsules to obtain a correlation between capsule dimension and the measurable parameters. The polymeric capsules were prepared using an interfacial polymerization technique for three different concentrations of Miglyol. It was shown that the variation of Miglyol concentration influences the capsule dimension. Their average size was estimated using the pulsed field gradient diffusometry technique. The relaxation dispersion curves were obtained at room temperature by a combined use of a fast field cycling instrument and a high-field instrument. The frequency dependence of relaxation rate shows a transition from a diffusion-limited to a surface-limited relaxation regime. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Liquid-filled simplified hollow-core photonic crystal fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Shengnan; Gao, Wei; Li, Hongwei; Dong, Yongkang; Zhang, Hongying

2014-12-01

We report on a novel type of liquid-filled simplified hollow-core photonic crystal fibers (HC-PCFs), and investigate their transmission properties with various filling liquids, including water, ethanol and FC-40. The loss and dispersion characterizations are calculated for different fiber parameters including strut thickness and core diameter. The results show that there are still low-loss windows existing for liquid-filled simplified HC-PCFs, and the low-loss windows and dispersions can be easily tailored by filling different liquids. Such liquid-filled simplified HC-PCFs open up many possibilities for nonlinear fiber optics, optical, biochemical and medical sensing.

Alginate-cellulose sulphate-oligocation microcapsules: optimization of mass transport and mechanical properties.

PubMed

Schuldt, U; Hunkeler, D

2007-02-01

Microcapsules based on polyelectrolyte complexation, where the inner phase involves a blend of alginate and sodium cellulose sulphate (SCS), have mechanical and transport properties which are relatively insensitive to the chemical composition of the rigid polyanion. Specifically, the bursting force of 400- and 1000 microm microcapsules increase slightly with the degree of substitution of the SCS, though the molar mass of the SCS appears to influence the transport properties more strongly than its composition. The concentration of the sodium chloride in the gelling batch can be varied rather extensively, with optimum properties at approximately half (i.e. 0.5 M) the level typically employed for the formation of cell-containing microcapsules. This indicates that the microcapsule properties can be tuned for biocompatability, without concern that changes to the polymer microstructure or reaction process conditions would adversely influence the bursting force or molar mass cut-off of the capsules. The alginate-SCS blend, which is typical equimass, can be slightly increased in favour of the SCS (to 55 wt%) if one seeks to mechanically optimize the system. The substitution of the oligocation polymethylene-co-guanidine with pDADMAC seems strongly undesirable. Similarly, the replacement of SCS with sulphoethylcellulose, while possible, offers no important advantages. The overall optimum conditions appear to be for a SCS with a DS of 2, prepared at 1.2 wt% of total cation with alginate. The ideal ratio, for mechanical and transport properties, of SCS to alginate is 55:45 (wt:wt), which represents a subtle modification from the classical formulation with very good biocompatability.

Low-Temperature Self-Healing of a Microcapsule-Type Protective Coating

PubMed Central

Cho, Yu-Jin; Choi, Ju-Young; Kim, Beom-Jun; Jin, Seung-Won; Chung, Chan-Moon

2017-01-01

Low-temperature self-healing capabilities are essential for self-healing materials exposed to cold environments. Although low-temperature self-healing concepts have been proposed, there has been no report of a microcapsule-type low-temperature self-healing system wherein the healing ability was demonstrated at low temperature. In this work, low-temperature self-healing of a microcapsule-type protective coating was demonstrated. This system employed silanol-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (STP) as a healing agent and dibutyltin dilaurate (DD) as a catalyst. STP underwent a condensation reaction at −20 °C in the presence of DD to give a viscoelastic product. The reaction behavior of STP and the viscoelasticity of the reaction product were investigated. STP and DD were separately microencapsulated by in situ polymerization and interfacial polymerization methods, respectively. The STP- and DD-loaded microcapsules were mixed into a commercial enamel paint, and the resulting formulation was applied to glass slides, steel panels, and mortars to prepare self-healing coatings. When the self-healing coatings were damaged at a low temperature (−20 °C), STP and DD were released from broken microcapsules and filled the damaged area. This process was effectively visualized using a fluorescent dye. The self-healing coatings were scratched and subjected to corrosion tests, electrochemical tests, and saline solution permeability tests. The temperature of the self-healing coatings was maintained at −20 °C before and after scratching and during the tests. We successfully demonstrated that the STP/DD-based coating system has good low-temperature self-healing capability. PMID:28906465

Easy Debonding of Ceramic Brackets Bonded with a Light-Cured Orthodontic Adhesive Containing Microcapsules with a CO2 Laser.

PubMed

Arima, Shiori; Namura, Yasuhiro; Tamura, Takahiko; Shimizu, Noriyoshi

2018-03-01

An easy debonding method for ceramic brackets using a light-cured Bis-GMA resin containing heat-expandable microcapsules and CO 2 laser was investigated. Ceramic brackets are used frequently in orthodontic treatment because of their desirable esthetic properties. However, the application of heavy force to ceramic brackets in debonding can fracture the tooth enamel and ceramic brackets, causing tooth pain. In total, 60 freshly extracted bovine permanent mandibular incisors were divided randomly into 10 groups of 6 specimens each, corresponding to the number of variables tested. Ceramic brackets were bonded to bovine permanent mandibular incisors using an orthodontic bonding agent containing heat-expandable microcapsules at different levels (0-30 wt%) and resin composite paste, and cured by a curing device. The bond strengths were measured before and after CO 2 laser irradiation, and the temperature increase in the pulp chamber in fresh human first premolars was also evaluated. With CO 2 laser irradiation for 5 sec to the bracket, the bond strength in the 25% microcapsule group decreased significantly, to ∼0.17-fold, compared with that of the no-laser group (p < 0.05). The maximum temperature increase in the pulp chamber was 5.3°C with laser irradiation, which was less than the level that induces pulp damage. From these results, it seems likely that the combined use of a light-cured orthodontic bonding agent containing microcapsules and a CO 2 laser is a simple debonding system for ceramic brackets, with less debonding time and enamel damage.

The preparation and characterization of monomethoxypoly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly-DL-lactide microcapsules containing bovine hemoglobin.

PubMed

Meng, Fan-Tao; Zhang, Wan-Zhong; Ma, Guang-Hui; Su, Zhi-Guo

2003-08-01

Methoxypoly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly-DL-lactide (PELA) microcapsules containing bovine hemoglobin (bHb) were prepared by a W/O/W double emulsion-solvent diffusion process. bHb solution was used as the internal aqueous phase, PELA/organic solvent as the oil phase, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution as the external aqueous phase. This W/O/W double emulsion was added into a large volume of water (solidification solution) to allow organic solvent to diffuse into water. The optimum preparative condition for PELA microcapsules loaded with bovine hemoglobin was investigated. It was found that homogenization rate, type of organic solvent, and volume of the solidification solution influenced the activity of bovine hemoglobin encapsulated. When the homogenization rate was lower than 9000 rpm and ethyl acetate was used as the organic solvent, there was no significant influence on the activity of hemoglobin. High homogenization rate as 12 000 rpm decreased the P50 and Hill coefficient. Increasing the volume of solidification solution had an effect of improving the activity of microencapsulated hemoglobin. The composition of the PELA had the most important influence on the success of encapsulation. Microcapsules fabricated by PELA with MPEG2k block (molecular weight of MPEG block: 2000) achieved a high entrapment efficiency of 90%, better than PL A homopolymer and PELA with MPEG5k blocks. Hemoglobin microcapsules with native loading oxygen activity (P50 = 26.0 mmHg, Hill coefficient = 2.4), mean size of about 10 microm, and high entrapment efficiency (ca. 93%) were obtained at the optimum condition.

Remendable Polymeric Materials Using Reversible Covalent Bonds

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-01

Synthesis and characterization of melamine - urea - formaldehyde microcapsules containing ENB-based self-healing agents. International Conference on Smart...R. Wang, X. He, W. Liu, and H. Hao, 2007: Preparation and characterization of self-healing poly ( urea - formaldehyde ) microcapsules. International...captured much attention. In one method, polymer networks are made to self-heal by adding particles filled with uncured resin . The resin held

High Energy Explosive Yield Enhancer Using Microencapsulation.

DTIC Science & Technology

The invention consists of a class of high energy explosive yield enhancers created through the use of microencapsulation techniques. The... microcapsules consist of combinations of highly reactive oxidizers that are encapsulated in either passivated inorganic fuels or inert materials and inorganic...fuels. Depending on the application, the availability of the various oxidizers and fuels within the microcapsules can be customized to increase the

Self-Healing composites for Mitigation of Impact Damage in US Army Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-12-01

triggering mechanism for self-healing, rupturing the embedded microcapsules and releasing healing agent into In this study, fiber-reinforced...through the inclusion of urea-formaldehyde properties in self-healing materials have focused on microcapsules containing dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) monotonic...systems, healing is Figure 1: (a) Optical micrograph and (b) schematic demonstrating accomplished by incorporating a microencapsulated the self-healing

Ultrasound contrast agent fabricated from microbubbles containing instant adhesives, and its ultrasound imaging ability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Makuta, T.; Tamakawa, Y.

2012-04-01

Non-invasive surgery techniques and drug delivery system with acoustic characteristics of ultrasound contrast agent have been studied intensively in recent years. Ultrasound contrast agent collapses easily under the blood circulating and the ultrasound irradiating because it is just a stabilized bubble without solid-shell by surface adsorption of surfactant or lipid. For improving the imaging stability, we proposed the fabrication method of the hollow microcapsule with polymer shell, which can be fabricated just blowing vapor of commonly-used instant adhesive (Cyanoacrylate monomer) into water as microbubbles. Therefore, the cyanoacrylate vapor contained inside microbubble initiates polymerization on the gasliquid interface soon after microbubbles are generated in water. Consequently, hollow microspheres coated by cyanoacrylate thin film are generated. In this report, we revealed that diameter distributions of microbubbles and microcapsules were approximately same and most of them were less than 10 μm, that is, smaller than blood capillary. In addition, we also revealed that hollow microcapsules enhanced the acoustic signal especially in the harmonic contrast imaging and were broken or agglomerated under the ultrasound field. As for the yield of hollow microcapsules, we revealed that sodium dodecyl sulfate addition to water phase instead of deoxycolic acid made the fabrication yield increased.

Self-healing woven glass fabric/epoxy composites with the healant consisting of micro-encapsulated epoxy and latent curing agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Tao; Zhou, Lin; Zhi Rong, Min; Qiu Zhang, Ming

2008-02-01

This paper reports a study of self-healing woven glass fabric reinforced epoxy composites. The healing agent was a two-component one synthesized in the authors' laboratory, which consisted of epoxy-loaded urea-formaldehyde microcapsules as the polymerizable binder and CuBr2(2-methylimidazole)4 (CuBr2(2-MeIm)4) as the latent hardener. Both the microcapsules and the matching catalyst were pre-embedded and pre-dissolved in the composites' matrix, respectively. When the microcapsules are split by propagating cracks, the uncured epoxy can be released into the damaged areas and then consolidated under the catalysis of CuBr2(2-MeIm)4 that was homogeneously distributed in the composites' matrix on a molecular scale. As a result, the cracked faces can be bonded together. The influence of the content of the self-healing agent on the composites' tensile properties, interlaminar fracture toughness and healing efficiency was evaluated. It was found that a healing efficiency over 70% relative to the fracture toughness of virgin composites was obtained in the case of 30 wt% epoxy-loaded microcapsules and 2 wt% latent hardener.

Nanostructured and thermoresponsive recombinant biopolymer-based microcapsules for the delivery of active molecules.

PubMed

Costa, Rui R; Custódio, Catarina A; Arias, Francisco J; Rodríguez-Cabello, José C; Mano, João F

2013-10-01

Multilayer capsules conceived at the nano- and microscales are receiving increasing interest due to their potential role as carriers of biomolecules for drug delivery and tissue engineering. Herein we report the construction of microcapsules by the sequential adsorption of chitosan and a biomimetic elastin-like recombinamer into nanostructured layers on inorganic microparticle templates. The release profile of bovine serum albumin, which was studied at 25 and 37 °C, shows higher retention and Fickian diffusion at physiological temperature. The self-assembled multilayers act as a barrier and allowed for sustained release over 14 days. The capsules studied are non-cytotoxic towards L929 cells, thereby suggesting multiple applications in the fields of biotechnology and bioengineering, where high control of the delivery of therapeutics and growth/differentiation factors is required. In this paper, the construction of microcapsules by sequential adsorption of chitosan and a biomimetic, elastin-like recombinamer into nanostructured layers on inorganic microparticle templates is reported. The layers demonstrated sustained drug release over 14 days. These microcapsules are non-cytotoxic toward L929 cells, suggesting multiple applications where high control of drug or growth factor delivery is required. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Complex coacervation of collagen hydrolysate extracted from leather solid wastes and chitosan for controlled release of lavender oil.

PubMed

Ocak, Buğra

2012-06-15

In the world, approximately 600,000 metric tonnes of chromium-containing solid wastes are generated by the leather industry each year. Environmental concerns and escalating landfill costs are becoming increasingly serious problems to the leather industry and seeking solutions to these problems is a prime concern in much research today. In this study, solid collagen-based protein hydrolysate was isolated from chromium-tanned leather wastes and its chemical properties were determined. Microcapsules of collagen hydrolysate (CH) - chitosan (C) crosslinked with glutaraldehyde (GA) containing Lavender oil (LO) were prepared by complex coacervation method. The effects of various processing parameters, including the CH to C ratio, LO content, and GA, on the oil load (%), oil content (%), encapsulation efficiency (%) and release rate of LO from microcapsules were investigated. As the ratio of C present in the CH/C mixture and crosslinking density increased, the release rate of LO from microcapsules slowed down. Optical and scanning electron microscopy images illustrated that the LO microcapsules were spherical in shape. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) studies confirmed that there was no significant interaction between CH/C complex and LO. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Physicochemical and sensory properties of yogurt enriched with microencapsulated fish oil.

PubMed

Tamjidi, F; Nasirpour, A; Shahedi, M

2012-08-01

Encapsulation of marine omega-3 oil by complex coacervation technique has been introduced as most effective approach to delay its oxidation and extend shelf life of ω(3)-enriched food products. Therefore, to produce enriched yogurt, fish oil containing long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids was microencapsulated in complex coacervates of gelatin/acacia gum. Then, the microcapsules were dried and their surface oil was extracted. Set yogurt was prepared by enriched milk with microcapsules powder. Physicochemical and sensory properties of enriched yogurt were measured during 21 days storage. Acidity, apparent viscosity and water holding capacity of enriched samples were higher and gel strength and amount of whey separation were lower compared to the control. The enriched yogurt samples were more yellowish compared to control. The peroxide value of free and encapsulated fish oil in enriched yogurt samples, after 22 days storage, were increased to 72% and 260%, respectively. Fish oil release of microcapsules was not detected by gas chromatography in extracted oil from enriched yogurt. Sensory results showed that untrained panelists evaluated overall acceptance of enriched yogurt with treated-fish oil microcapsules by lime juice as 'neither liked nor disliked to slightly liked'.

Design and application of sporopollenin microcapsule supported palladium catalyst: Remarkably high turnover frequency and reusability in catalysis of biaryls.

PubMed

Baran, Talat; Sargin, Idris; Kaya, Murat; Menteş, Ayfer; Ceter, Talip

2017-01-15

Bio-based catalyst support materials with high thermal and structural stability are desired for catalysts systems requiring harsh conditions. In this study, a thermally stable palladium catalyst (up to 440°C) was designed from sporopollenin, which occurs naturally in the outer exine layer of pollens and is widely acknowledged as chemically very stable and inert biological material. Catalyst design procedure included (1) extraction of sporopollenin microcapsules from Betula pendula pollens (∼25μm), (2) amino-functionalisation of the microcapsules, (3) Schiff base modification and (4) preparation of Pd(II) catalyst. The catalytic activity of the sporopollenin microcapsule supported palladium catalyst was tested in catalysis of biaryls by following a fast, simple and green microwave-assisted method. We recorded outstanding turnover number (TON: 40,000) and frequency (TOF: 400,000) for the catalyst in Suzuki coupling reactions. The catalyst proved to be reusable at least in eight cycles. The catalyst can be suggested for different catalyst systems due to its thermal and structural durability, reusability, inertness to air and its eco-friendly nature. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of Over 10-Year Cryopreserved Encapsulated Pancreatic Islets Of Langerhans.

PubMed

Kinasiewicz, Joanna; Antosiak-Iwanska, Magdalena; Godlewska, Ewa; Sitarek, Elzbieta; Sabat, Marek; Fiedor, Piotr; Granicka, Ludomira

2017-08-28

Immunoisolation of pancreatic islets of Langerhans performed by the encapsulation process may be a method to avoid immunosuppressive therapy after transplant. The main problem related to islet transplant is shortage of human pancreata. Resolution of this obstacle may be cryopreservation of encapsulated islets, which enables collection of sufficient numbers of isolated islets required for transplant and long-term storage. Here, we assessed the ability of encapsulated islets to function after long-term banking at low temperature. Islets of Langerhans isolated from rat, pig, and human pancreata were encapsulated within alginate-poly-L-lysine-alginate microcapsules. Cryopreservation was carried out using a controlled method of freezing (Kriomedpol freezer; Kriomedpol, Warsaw, Poland), and samples were stored in liquid nitrogen. After 10 years, the samples were thawed with the rapid method (with 0.75 M of sucrose) and then cultured. We observed that microcapsules containing islets maintained their shape and integrity after thawing. During culture, free islets were defragmented into single cells, whereas encapsulated islets were still round in shape and compact. After 1, 4, and 7 days of culture of encapsulated islets, the use of 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide tests showed increased mitochondrial activity. After they were thawed, the insulin secretion capacity was comparable with that obtained with fresh islets. Cryopreservation and storage of free and microencapsulated islets were possible for about 10 years, although only encapsulated islets retained viability and secretory properties.

The microcapsule-type formaldehyde scavenger: the preparation and the application in urea-formaldehyde adhesives.

PubMed

Duan, Hongyun; Qiu, Teng; Guo, Longhai; Ye, Jun; Li, Xiaoyu

2015-08-15

The limitation and regulation of formaldehyde emissions (FE) now shows great importance in wood-based materials such as plywood and particle board manufactured for building and furnishing materials. The widely used formaldehyde-based adhesives are one of the main sources of FE from the wood products. In this work, a new kind of long-term effective formaldehyde scavenger in the microcapsule form was prepared by using an intra-liquid desiccation method. The characterizations of the capsule (UC) were performed including the morphologies, the yields, the loading efficiency as well as its sustained-release of urea in aqueous conditions. The prepared UC could be integrated in urea-formaldehyde resins by simply physical blending, and the mixtures were available to be applied as the adhesives for the manufacture of plywood. The bonding strength (BS) and the FE of the bonded plywood in both short (3h) and long (12 week) period were evaluated in detail. It was found that the FE profile of the plywood behaved following a duple exponential law within 12 week. The addition of UC in the adhesive can effectively depress the FE of the plywood not only in a short period after preparation but also in a long-term period during its practical application. The slow released urea would continuously suppress the emission of toxic formaldehyde in a sustained manner without obviously deteriorating on the BS of the adhesives. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Random lasing in dye-doped polymer dispersed liquid crystal film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Rina; Shi, Rui-xin; Wu, Xiaojiao; Wu, Jie; Dai, Qin

2016-09-01

A dye-doped polymer-dispersed liquid crystal film was designed and fabricated, and random lasing action was studied. A mixture of laser dye, nematic liquid crystal, chiral dopant, and PVA was used to prepare the dye-doped polymer-dispersed liquid crystal film by means of microcapsules. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that most liquid crystal droplets in the polymer matrix ranged from 30 μm to 40 μm, the size of the liquid crystal droplets was small. Under frequency doubled 532 nm Nd:YAG laser-pumped optical excitation, a plurality of discrete and sharp random laser radiation peaks could be measured in the range of 575-590 nm. The line-width of the lasing peak was 0.2 nm and the threshold of the random lasing was 9 mJ. Under heating, the emission peaks of random lasing disappeared. By detecting the emission light spot energy distribution, the mechanism of radiation was found to be random lasing. The random lasing radiation mechanism was then analyzed and discussed. Experimental results indicated that the size of the liquid crystal droplets is the decisive factor that influences the lasing mechanism. The surface anchor role can be ignored when the size of the liquid crystal droplets in the polymer matrix is small, which is beneficial to form multiple scattering. The transmission path of photons is similar to that in a ring cavity, providing feedback to obtain random lasing output. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 61378042), the Colleges and Universities in Liaoning Province Outstanding Young Scholars Growth Plans, China (Grant No. LJQ2015093), and Shenyang Ligong University Laser and Optical Information of Liaoning Province Key Laboratory Open Funds, China.

Computational design of microscopic swimmers and capsules: From directed motion to collective behavior

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nikolov, Svetoslav V.; Shum, Henry; Balazs, Anna C.

Systems of motile microscopic particles can exhibit behaviors that resemble those of living microorganisms, including cooperative motion, self-organization, and adaptability to changing environments. Using mesoscale computational modeling, we design synthetic microswimmers and microcapsules that undergo controllable, self-propelled motion in solution. Stimuli-responsive hydrogels are used to actuate the microswimmers and to enable their navigation and chemotaxing behavior. The self-propelled motion of microcapsules on solid surfaces is achieved by the release of encapsulated solutes that alter the surface adhesiveness. These signaling solutes also enable interactions among multiple microcapsules that lead to complex, cooperative behavior. Our findings provide guidelines for creating microscopic devicesmore » and machines able to autonomously move and mimic the communication and chemotaxis of biological microorganisms.« less

Assembly of multiple components in a hybrid microcapsule: designing a magnetically separable Pd catalyst for selective hydrogenation.

PubMed

Amali, Arlin Jose; Sharma, Bikash; Rana, Rohit Kumar

2014-09-15

In analogy to the role of long-chain polyamines in biosilicification, poly-L-lysine facilitates the assembly of nanocomponents to design multifunctional microcapsule structures. The method is demonstrated by the fabrication of a magnetically separable catalyst that accommodates Pd nanoparticles (NPs) as active catalyst, Fe3O4 NPs as magnetic component for easy recovery of the catalyst, and silica NPs to impart stability and selectivity to the catalyst. In addition, polyamines embedded inside the microcapsule prevent the agglomeration of Pd NPs and thus result in efficient catalytic activity in hydrogenation reactions, and the hydrophilic silica surface results in selectivity in reactions depending on the polarity of substrates. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Development of drug-loaded polymer microcapsules for treatment of epilepsy.

PubMed

Chen, Yu; Gu, Qi; Yue, Zhilian; Crook, Jeremy M; Moulton, Simon E; Cook, Mark J; Wallace, Gordon G

2017-09-26

Despite significant progress in developing new drugs for seizure control, epilepsy still affects 1% of the global population and is drug-resistant in more than 30% of cases. To improve the therapeutic efficacy of epilepsy medication, a promising approach is to deliver anti-epilepsy drugs directly to affected brain areas using local drug delivery systems. The drug delivery systems must meet a number of criteria, including high drug loading efficiency, biodegradability, neuro-cytocompatibility and predictable drug release profiles. Here we report the development of fibre- and sphere-based microcapsules that exhibit controllable uniform morphologies and drug release profiles as predicted by mathematical modelling. Importantly, both forms of fabricated microcapsules are compatible with human brain derived neural stem cells and differentiated neurons and neuroglia, indicating clinical compliance for neural implantation and therapeutic drug delivery.

Primary atomization of liquid jets issuing from rocket engine coaxial injectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woodward, Roger D.

1993-01-01

The investigation of liquid jet breakup and spray development is critical to the understanding of combustion phenomena in liquid-propellant rocket engines. Much work has been done to characterize low-speed liquid jet breakup and dilute sprays, but atomizing jets and dense sprays have yielded few quantitative measurements due to their optical opacity. This work focuses on a characteristic of the primary breakup process of round liquid jets, namely the length of the intact liquid core. The specific application considered is that of shear-coaxial type rocket engine injectors. Real-time x-ray radiography, capable of imaging through the dense two-phase region surrounding the liquid core, has been used to make the measurements. Nitrogen and helium were employed as the fuel simulants while an x-ray absorbing potassium iodide aqueous solution was used as the liquid oxygen (LOX) simulant. The intact-liquid-core length data have been obtained and interpreted to illustrate the effects of chamber pressure (gas density), injected-gas and liquid velocities, and cavitation. The results clearly show that the effect of cavitation must be considered at low chamber pressures since it can be the dominant breakup mechanism. A correlation of intact core length in terms of gas-to-liquid density ratio, liquid jet Reynolds number, and Weber number is suggested. The gas-to-liquid density ratio appears to be the key parameter for aerodynamic shear breakup in this study. A small number of hot-fire, LOX/hydrogen tests were also conducted to attempt intact-LOX-core measurements under realistic conditions in a single-coaxial-element rocket engine. The tests were not successful in terms of measuring the intact core, but instantaneous imaging of LOX jets suggests that LOX jet breakup is qualitatively similar to that of cold-flow, propellant-simulant jets. The liquid oxygen jets survived in the hot-fire environment much longer than expected, and LOX was even visualized exiting the chamber nozzle under some conditions. This may be an effect of the single element configuration.

Polymer Claw: Instant Underwater Adhesive

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-03-23

technology is the use of pressure sensitive microcapsules , which release reactive amine crosslinkers into an adhesive putty when pressed against the...PROIECT GOALS AND OBIECTIVES 2 2 KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2 3.1 KICKOFF MEETING 3 3.2 AMINE MICROENCAPSULATION 3 3.3 CAUSTIC CLEANING AGENT 5 3.4...caustic, and the abrasive brush. We successfully synthesized amine-filled microcapsules and a dry mixture of caustic ingredients that only activate when

Enterotoxin Vaccine Delivery System With Bioadherence. Phase 1.

DTIC Science & Technology

1995-12-05

Microencapsulation 33 Bioadhesive Biodegradable 16. PRICE CODE Perorally Controlled Delivery 17. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION 18. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION 19. SECURITY...this magnitude requires a delivery system configured with a bioadhesive polymer that integrates the surface of the microcapsules and the mucosa. SBIR...integrates the surface of the microcapsules and the mucosa. SBIR Phase I Program efforts focused on the development of the most feasible method(s) for

Sequential Release of Proteins from Structured Multishell Microcapsules.

PubMed

Shimanovich, Ulyana; Michaels, Thomas C T; De Genst, Erwin; Matak-Vinkovic, Dijana; Dobson, Christopher M; Knowles, Tuomas P J

2017-10-09

In nature, a wide range of functional materials is based on proteins. Increasing attention is also turning to the use of proteins as artificial biomaterials in the form of films, gels, particles, and fibrils that offer great potential for applications in areas ranging from molecular medicine to materials science. To date, however, most such applications have been limited to single component materials despite the fact that their natural analogues are composed of multiple types of proteins with a variety of functionalities that are coassembled in a highly organized manner on the micrometer scale, a process that is currently challenging to achieve in the laboratory. Here, we demonstrate the fabrication of multicomponent protein microcapsules where the different components are positioned in a controlled manner. We use molecular self-assembly to generate multicomponent structures on the nanometer scale and droplet microfluidics to bring together the different components on the micrometer scale. Using this approach, we synthesize a wide range of multiprotein microcapsules containing three well-characterized proteins: glucagon, insulin, and lysozyme. The localization of each protein component in multishell microcapsules has been detected by labeling protein molecules with different fluorophores, and the final three-dimensional microcapsule structure has been resolved by using confocal microscopy together with image analysis techniques. In addition, we show that these structures can be used to tailor the release of such functional proteins in a sequential manner. Moreover, our observations demonstrate that the protein release mechanism from multishell capsules is driven by the kinetic control of mass transport of the cargo and by the dissolution of the shells. The ability to generate artificial materials that incorporate a variety of different proteins with distinct functionalities increases the breadth of the potential applications of artificial protein-based materials and provides opportunities to design more refined functional protein delivery systems.

Insulin-loaded biodegradable PLGA microcapsules: initial burst release controlled by hydrophilic additives.

PubMed

Yamaguchi, Y; Takenaga, M; Kitagawa, A; Ogawa, Y; Mizushima, Y; Igarashi, R

2002-06-17

We investigated the controlled release of human insulin at an initial stage from poly(DL-lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA, M(w) 6600) spherical matrices. PLGA microcapsules were prepared by the novel solvent evaporation multiple emulsion process. When the crystalline insulin was dispersed in dichloromethane as solid-in-oil (S/O) dispersion, it was found that most of insulin molecules were inlaid on the surface of PLGA microcapsules. Consequently, insulin-loaded PLGA microcapsules exhibited marked rapid release of insulin within several hours in both in vivo and in vitro experiments. On the other hand, the addition of glycerol or water in the primary dichloromethane dispersion results in drastically suppressed initial release. It was found by SEM observation that water- or glycerol-in-oil (W/O or G/O) type mini-emulsion droplets with a mean diameter of 300-500 nm were formed in this primary solution. This phenomenon can be theoretically presumed to occur because insulin and PLGA molecules, having amphiphilic properties, converge on the interface between the hydrophilic additive and dichloromethane. Hence, insulin molecules heterogeneously located in the inside of PLGA microcapsules, not on the surface, would be gradually released with PLGA hydrolytic decomposition. As an additional effect of glycerol, the initial burst was further suppressed due to the decrease of the glass transition temperature of PLGA from 42.5 to 36.7 degrees C. Since the annealing of PLGA molecules took place at around 37 degrees C, the porous structure of microspheres immediately disappeared after immersion in PBS or subcutaneous administration. The insulin diffusion through the water-filled pores would be effectively prevented. The strict controlled initial release of insulin from the PLGA microsphere suggested the possibility of utilization in insulin therapy for type I diabetic patients who need construction of a basal insulin profile.

Flexible liquid core light guide with focusing and light shaping attachments

DOEpatents

Kross, B.J.; Majewski, S.; Zorn, C.J.; Majewski, L.A.

1997-11-04

A liquid light guide system for ultraviolet light is disclosed that has a light shaping arrangement for the emitted light, a stable liquid core and sheath and reliable and effective end closures. 12 figs.

Density Affects the Nature of the Hexatic-Liquid Transition in Two-Dimensional Melting of Soft-Core Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zu, Mengjie; Liu, Jun; Tong, Hua; Xu, Ning

2016-08-01

We find that both continuous and discontinuous hexatic-liquid transitions can happen in the melting of two-dimensional solids of soft-core disks. For three typical model systems, Hertzian, harmonic, and Gaussian-core models, we observe the same scenarios. These systems exhibit reentrant crystallization (melting) with a maximum melting temperature Tm happening at a crossover density ρm. The hexatic-liquid transition at a density smaller than ρm is discontinuous. Liquid and hexatic phases coexist in a density interval, which becomes narrower with increasing temperature and tends to vanish approximately at Tm. Above ρm, the transition is continuous, in agreement with the Kosterlitz-Thouless-Halperin-Nelson-Young theory. For these soft-core systems, the nature of the hexatic-liquid transition depends on density (pressure), with the melting at ρm being a plausible transition point from discontinuous to continuous hexatic-liquid transition.

Research Advances of Microencapsulation and Its Prospects in the Petroleum Industry

PubMed Central

Hu, Miaomiao; Guo, Jintang; Yu, Yongjin; Cao, Lei; Xu, Yang

2017-01-01

Additives in the petroleum industry have helped form an efficient system in the past few decades. Nowadays, the development of oil and gas has been facing more adverse conditions, and smart response microcapsules with the abilities of self-healing, and delayed and targeted release are introduced to eliminate obstacles for further exploration in the petroleum industry. However, limited information is available, only that of field measurement data, and not mechanism theory and structural innovation data. Thus we propose that the basic type, preparation, as well as mechanism of microcapsules partly depend on other mature fields. In this review, we explore the latest advancements in evaluating microcapsules, such as X-ray computed tomography (XCT), simulation, and modeling. Finally, some novel microencapsulated additives with unparalleled advantages, such as flexibility, efficiency, and energy-conservation are described. PMID:28772728

Luminescence of europium (III) complexes for visualization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kolontaeva, Olga A.; Pozharov, Mikhail V.; Korolovich, Vladimir F.; Khokhlova, Anastasia R.; Kirdyanova, Anna N.; Burmistrova, Natalia A.; Zakharova, Tamara V.; Goryacheva, Irina Y.

2016-04-01

With the purpose to develop bright non-toxic luminescent label for theranostic application we have studied complexation of lanthanide dipicolinates (2,6-pyridinedicarboxylates) by sodium alginate and effect of thermal exposure of synthesized micro-capsules on their luminescent properties. Synthesized micro-capsules are stable in acidic medium but dissolve at pH ~ 4 due to transformation of cationic europium dipicolinate complex to anionic. Luminescence studies have shown that emission spectra of europium(III)-alginate complexes (both chloride and dipicolinate) contain two intensive bands characteristic to Eu3+ ion (5D0 --> 7F1 (590 nm) and 5D0 --> 7F1 (612 nm)). We have also found that at 160ºC europium(III)- alginate micro-capsules decompose to black, soot-like substance, therefore, their thermal treatment must be performed in closed environment (i.e., sealed ampoules).

Hydrogel-based encapsulation of biological, functional tissue: fundamentals, technologies and applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zimmermann, H.; Ehrhart, F.; Zimmermann, D.; Müller, K.; Katsen-Globa, A.; Behringer, M.; Feilen, P. J.; Gessner, P.; Zimmermann, G.; Shirley, S. G.; Weber, M. M.; Metze, J.; Zimmermann, U.

2007-12-01

Replacing dysfunctional endocrine cells or tissues (e.g. islets, parathyroid tissue) by functional, foreign material without using immunosuppressives could soon become reality. Immunological reactions are avoided by encapsulating cells/tissues in hydrogel (e.g. alginate) microcapsules, preventing interaction of the enclosed material with the host’s immune system while permitting the unhindered passage of nutrients, oxygen and secreted therapeutic factors. Detailed investigations of the physical, physico-chemical and immunological parameters of alginate-based microcapsules have led recently to the development of a novel class of cell-entrapping microcapsules that meet the demands of biocompatibility, long-term integrity and function. This together with the development of ‘good medical practice’ microfluidic chip technology and of advanced cryopreservation technology for generation and storage of immunoisolated transplants will bring cell-based therapy to clinics and the market.

Rheological and thermal properties of suspensions of microcapsules containing phase change materials.

PubMed

Cao, Vinh Duy; Salas-Bringas, Carlos; Schüller, Reidar Barfod; Szczotok, Anna M; Hiorth, Marianne; Carmona, Manuel; Rodriguez, Juan F; Kjøniksen, Anna-Lena

2018-01-01

The thermal and rheological properties of suspensions of microencapsulated phase change materials (MPCM) in glycerol were investigated. When the microcapsule concentration is raised, the heat storage capacity of the suspensions becomes higher and a slight decline in the thermal conductivity of the suspensions is observed. The temperature-dependent shear-thinning behaviour of the suspensions was found to be strongly affected by non-encapsulated phase change materials (PCM). Accordingly, the rheological properties of the MPCM suspensions could be described by the Cross model below the PCM melting point while a power law model best described the data above the PCM melting point. The MPCM suspensions are interesting for energy storage and heat transfer applications. However, the non-encapsulated PCM contributes to the agglomeration of the microcapsules, which can lead to higher pumping consumption and clogging of piping systems.